Ok, I'm on a roll -- another balk question

YHF100+ posts

This question pertains to a 14u USSSA game I was coaching but I'd like to know if H.S. rules differ.

Runners on 1st and 2nd if that matters...pitcher comes set and makes his delivery. FU calls a balk for the pitcher not stopping at set position. The balk call was not loud (I didn't hear it coaching 3rd) and the pitcher continues on and delivers the ball to the plate and it's crushed to left-center by our hitter.

Is this always a dead ball? If the pitcher delivers the pitch and it's hit by the batter, does the batting team get the option of taking the play or is it automatically a dead ball, no pitch?

Thanks.

5/6/089:47 AM

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pilsner500+ posts

YHF,

Under High School rules (Fed), the ball would be dead immediately on the balk call. I believe, however, that USSSA uses OBR as its base and in the scenario you offered if the pitch is delivered and the batter and all other runners advance at least one base, then the play proceeds without reference to the balk. If not, then the balk is enforced.

There isn't any option for the offense to accept or refuse the balk call.

5/6/0810:29 AM

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YHF100+ posts

Thanks Pilsner. I was getting different answers from a couple friends and thought it might have to do with which set of rules we're playing under. USSSA does use OBR.

So in USSSA the umps would typically allow the play to continue on then sort it out? If all runners advance at least one base then the play stands? I think that's what you're saying.

And I'm assuming the B/R and runners aren't "protected" (not sure if I'm using that word correctly) past one base?? For example, if that play happens as I described and R2 gets thrown out at home he's out. Right?

5/6/082:33 PM

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pilsner500+ posts

After the batter and runners advance one base they can continue if they wish but the ball remains live and any further advance is with liability to be put out. So if R2 gets thrown out at the plate the out stands.

5/6/085:06 PM