Expert: Brian Flaspohler - 5/11/2006

Question
What clues can you give to a 1st base coach and /or runner relative to the "move" of a left handed pitcher.  What constitutes a "balk" by the left handed pitcher.

Answer
George,

The first move by a left hander must be toward first base if they are going to throw there.  If their initial move is toward home and they throw to first, they have committed a balk.

Even major leaguers are fooled by a lefty with a good move.  Terry Mulholland had one of the best and I saw players going back toward first when he would throw home.  I guess you just need to watch and be as attentive as possible.

That's not much of a hint, but I hope it helps!

Brian