Stan Dyer: It’s funny that you would bring this up. I had a coach ask me about the very same thing. I concur with your interpretation. Since it is legal by NFHS rules to “feint” to third, it is legal to throw to a fielder who is not in position to make a play. I do not think all states interpret this the same way, and you should check with your home state rules interpreter for clarification.
In our state, the pitcher can, indeed, feint to third, but, if he turns and throws to first, he must disengage first, or it is a balk.
If I were you, I would keep doing it the way I was doing it until someone in a position of authority told me to do it differently. You will get some flack from different coaches, and even some umpires, but, when you are Umpire in Chief, it’s your game, and your call – be consistent, and be confident. Never assume any coach, player, or even another umpire knows the rules better than you do, and never assume you know them well enough not to continue studying.
You gave wise advice not only in terms of rules, but also in terms of learning the rules and trusting yourself.
And I confess that I am surprised at the fact that different states interpret the rules differently.
