Skip to main content

This weekend at an 12:U tourney with a runner on first and a left handed pitcher on the mound. The pitcher gets the sign from the catcher and starts his motion. Before he comes set (in mid motion) he throws over to first (without stepping off the rubber). When asked the umpire said it was not a balk because he did not have to come set as long as he was throwing to first. Now, I know pitchers can make a throw to first but I thought once they started their motion they had to come set or step off the rubber.

What's the rule?
Original Post

Replies sorted oldest to newest

Sounds like he was okay. As long as he stepped towards first with his pivot foot. In other words he's not allowed so simply pick the free foot up and put it down, it must go towards first.

Once the motion to come set begins he is still allowed to initiate a pick. He does not have to come set first, same with a righty. A pick off can be initiated any time, before, during, or after the
stretch. And no stop is required. Only going to the plate, must he stop.

Add Reply

×
×
×
×
Link copied to your clipboard.
×