THROWING TO AN UNOCCUPIED BASE

THROWING TO AN UNOCCUPIED BASE

Rule 6.02(a)(4):

Official Baseball Rule 6.02(a)(4) provides that the pitcher be charged with a balk if, while in contact with the pitcher’s plate, he throws to an unoccupied base except for the purpose of making a play.

    EXAMPLES:
(1) Runners on first and second, pitcher in set position. Runner breaks for third base and pitcher throws to third base.
Ruling: Legal play.

(2) Runners on first and second, pitcher in set position. Runner bluffs going to third base and pitcher throws to third base. However, runner did not go.
Ruling: Balk, pursuant to Official Baseball Rule 6.02(a)(4).

The key to understanding the above two plays is for the umpire to use good judgment in deciding whether or not the runner was making an actual attempt to advance to third base or whether the runner was bluffing. These plays will most likely happen with a 3-2 count and two out.
In addition, note that the Comment to Official Baseball Rule 6.02(a)(4) states: “When determining whether the pitcher throws or feints a throw to an unoccupied base for the purpose of making a play, the umpire should consider whether a runner on the previous base demonstrates or otherwise creates an impression of his intent to advance to such
unoccupied base.”

Another interpretation regarding Official Baseball Rule 6.02(a)(4) concerns appeal plays:
It is NOT a balk for the pitcher, while in contact with the rubber, to throw to an unoccupied base IF it is for the purpose of making an appeal play. (Note that the pitcher does not have to step back off the rubber to make an appeal play.)

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