Third Disengagement Balk
In the July 4, 2024 Rays-Royals game at Kauffman Stadium, the Rays were batting in the top of the first inning. They had Richie Palacios on second and Isaac Paredes on first with one out when Royals pitcher Alec Marsh failed to pick-off Palacios which was his third disengagement. A balk was called on Marsh allowing Palacios and Parades to advance one base.
Ruleball Comments
According to Elias there have been 19 “third disengagement” balks as of July 4, 2024.
The three disengagement rule resets when there is a new batter or if any runner advances during a batter’s at bat. Both Rays runners subsequently scored, which proved to be important because the Rays won the game, 10-8.
Rich Marazzi
Rules consultant/analyst: Angels, D’backs, Dodgers, Mets, Nationals, Orioles, Padres, Phillies, Pirates, Red Sox, Rangers, Royals, Tigers, Twins, White Sox, Yankees, YES, and NBC Sports Chicago.
Which is the rule number in the OBR as I can’t find it there?