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F6 tags R2 as F1 stands to the side of his plate. |
This frivolity actually explains why a hidden ball trick can never be executed after a double, charged mound visit or other event that results in a call of "Time" immediately afterward.
Q: Had "time" not been granted to either Sandoval or batter Hunter Pence prior to the tag out, what would the proper call have been—out, balk or otherwise—and how should play proceed?
A: Rule 8.05(i) states it is a balk when "the pitcher, without having the ball, stands on or astride the pitcher's plate or while off the plate, he feints a pitch." Because neither of these events occurred (the pitcher did not stand on his pitchers plate or astride it—he did not straddle it—and he did not fake a pitch, there is no balk and the runner is out. The inning is over.
The rule concerning balks under the professional rules set requires the pitcher to address the pitching rubber via contact or perceived contact (e.g., astride). Under NCAA 9-3-f and NFHS 6-2-5, this same situation is a balk because it becomes a balk when a pitcher steps within five feet of the rubber (NFHS) or merely onto the dirt area of the pitching mound (NCAA).
Correct Responses: Angel55Snapback, Bob Abouy, clawdad, CricketChapman (via e-mail), gkiewitt, kickersrule, Moe, NorthStarUmpire#2, RadioPearl, Radwaste50 (way to cite rules by level of play!), Red @ss Ump, RolBama24, rgoldar2, SJR, toss 'em, Turducken, ump_24, UmpsRule (via e-mail).
Related: MLB Ejection 094: Laz Diaz (1; Bud Black)