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Baseball Instruction/Baseball pitcher balking to third

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Expert: - 6/14/2009


Question
QUESTION: Can a right handed pitcher fake a throw to third base with
a runner on third while his foot is still in contact with the rubber?

ANSWER: Terry,

Yes, the pitcher can.  According to the rules, the only base the pitcher cannot feint a throw to is 1st base (8.05 (b)).  So he can feint a throw to third without releasing the ball, while on the plate.  Keep in mind, he can only do this if a runner is occupying that base.

I hope this has helped.

-Martin Hoover

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

QUESTION:
Does the pitcher have to step toward third base when he feints a throw with his non pivate foot?  

Answer
The rule states that the pitcher must step to the base in which he is throwing.  The rule also states that it is an illegal pitch if the pitcher makes any movement like they are throwing to the batter and does not follow through.  However, it sounds like the pitcher did not throw the pitch.

I would have to be there to see the movement to make an accurate decision.

-Martin Hoover

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Martin Hoover

Expertise

Questions regarding the Rules and Regulations of Little League Baseball and Softball. Questions regarding the history and organization of Little League Baseball at local, state, regional, and international levels. Advise regarding certain operational procedures and recommendations to Local League representatives.

Experience

Volunteer Little League Umpire since 2000; 2003 Little League, Junior League, Senior League and Big League Softball European Regional Umpire; 2005 Little League Softball Western Regional Umpire; Member- Hesperia National(Hesperia, CA) Little League Board of Directors(2003-2004); President- Hesperia National Little League Board of Directors(2005-Present); 2007 Junior Softball Western Regional Umpire

Organizations
Little League Baseball, Inc is the main operational center. I fall under Little League Western Region, and California District 49. I currently serve as President of the Hesperia National Little League Board of Directors.

Education/Credentials
Western Regional Junior Umpire School(2000)(Named Outstanding Junior Umpire of the Western Region Area); Instructor - Little League Baseball Western Regional Outreach Clinics

Awards and Honors
Outstanding Junior Umpire of the Western Regional Area(2000)

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