Expert: Brian Flaspohler - 7/26/2008

Question
QUESTION: Pitcher makes apick off move to first while the first baseman is behind the runner, away from the bag.  

Step off is OK! What about a jump or spin move?

ANSWER: Donn,

The pitcher must disconnect from the rubber before making any type of move toward first base.  If they don't disconnect, they can't fake any type of move.  They must go ahead and throw the ball.  Not having a fielder there is no excuse - the ball must go if the pitcher goes to throw.

Hope this helps!

Brian

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: So throwing the ball without hesitation means it is not a balk?  How far from the base can a fielder be?

Answer
Donn,

As long as the pitcher follows the other rules (stepping toward the base, stopping as they should, etc.) then it doesn't matter where the fielder is.  The risk is that the fielder can't get there in time to catch the ball.

Hope this helps!

Brian