Expert: Dennis Girardi - 7/1/2007

Question
Is there a rule called catcher's balk?

Situation:

Runner on 1st, no out, right-handed batter
Catcher calls for pitch out, runner attempts to steal 2nd
Catcher takes 2 steps to his right to catch pitch
Before catcher throws to 2nd umpire calls "Balk, Dead Ball"
Explanation: Catcher"s Balk, out of catcher's box prior to release of ball by pitcher
Runner on 1st awarded 2nd base, no pitch

Please give your best answer.

Thanks.

David


Answer
Hey David,

Yes,there is such a rule.

Rule 4.03(a) states "The catcher shall station himself directly back of the plate. He may leave his position at any time to catch a pitch or make a play except that when the batter is being given an intentional base on balls, the catcher must stand with both feet within the lines of the catcher’s box until the ball leaves the pitcher’s hand. PENALTY: Balk."

Some web sites have stated that the penalty for such an occurence is that the batter is awarded a walk. This is not true.

A "catcher's balk" is charged to the pitcher (for pitching when the catcher is out of the box), and has the same penalty as any other balk -- the runners advance one base.

Dennis