Expert: Andrew Senger - 2/23/2010

Question
can a runner after reaching first base take a lead towards home plate in an attempt to cause confusion to the pitcher trying to get a balk call or advancing the runner on second to third or third to home?

Answer
Tony,

There are two things to consider in this situation (Official Baseball Rules):

7.08(a)(1) Any runner is out when He runs more than three feet away from his baseline to avoid being tagged unless his action is to avoid interference with a fielder fielding a batted ball. A runner’s baseline is established when the tag attempt occurs and is a straight line from the runner to the base he is attempting to reach safely; or

7.08(i) After he has acquired legal possession of a base, he runs the bases in reverse order for the purpose of confusing the defense or making a travesty of the game. The umpire shall immediately call “Time” and declare the runner out;

The runner should be very careful in doing this. If an umpire feels the runner is running "the bases in reverse order" to confuse the defense, the runner will be out. If the umpire doesn't call this, the runner has to be careful that they do not run outside the three-foot line between himself and the base he is going to when a tag is being attempted on him.