Pitching Rules: 11 Different Ways A Pitcher Can Balk

I recently got into a discussion with some coaches about balks and thought I would share the following 11 ways to balk

1) Make a quick pitch. This seems to be the most common balk called at any level. The pitcher must come to a complete stop from the set position and must not pitch before the batter is ready.

2) Pitch while not touching the rubber. The post foot must be in contact with the rubber while beginning the delivery. (As soon as the pitcher goes into foot-strike the post foot will naturally drag forward toward home plate and will not touch the rubber as the torso rotates). The consistent bend of the post leg from start to finish proves the concept of "pushing off" the rubber is nothing but a popular myth.

3) Fake the pitch. The pitcher can't make any movement to deceive the runner or batter.

4) Fail to have both hands on the baseball in the set position.

5) Pitch without looking at the batter.

6) Fake a throw to first base. (Unless he steps off the rubber first).

7) Make a pitching motion without completing the pitch.

8) Drop the baseball while on the rubber.

9) Delay the game.

10) If the catcher is out of the catcher's box during an intentional walk.

11) Fail to step toward and ahead of the throw. This makes any type of "spin-move" illegal.

Comments

[adam shearer]

I was watching little action the other night and noticed a weird windup. I almost think the pitcher is balking. Can you please tell me if so? He is a right hander and bases are empty. Looking from the catchers view the pitcher starts from the right side of the rubber with his chest facing 3rd base. His first step is towards 3rd base with his pivot foot and then towards home w/his left foot so he ends up on the left side of the rubber with his pivot foot. (He's changing the right foot from right side of rubber to the left)Is this a balk?

[adam shearer]

His pivot foot is leaving the rubber to start his windup so Im saying Balk!

[casey neale]

Is it EVER legal for a pitcher to perform a pickoff to an unocupied base, Example: runner on second steals third and the pitcher (instead of stepping off the rubber)performs a pickoff move to third base to catch the runner stealing third. Is this a balk or a legal pickoff move.