Balk
Also known as: balk rule
A balk is an illegal or deceptive motion by the pitcher. At the same time, runners are on base, immediately awarding every runner one base without a pitch needing to be thrown.
The balk rule exists to prevent a pitcher from deceiving baserunners with an incomplete or misleading motion. This means starting a pickoff throw and stopping partway through, for example, or beginning the pitching motion and not delivering to the plate. Common balk triggers include failing to come to a complete, discernible stop in the stretch position before delivering, stepping toward a base without actually throwing there, dropping the ball during the motion, or making any motion associated with pitching without completing the pitch.
Because the rule covers. As a result, many specific, small mechanical details, balks are frequently called on pitchers who are not trying to deceive anyone. This means a young pitcher rushing a delivery, or a pitcher whose set position is technically incomplete. With no runners on base, the same illegal motion is simply a "no pitch" or a ball, since there is no runner to protect. The balk penalty only applies with a runner on base to advance.
Example
With a runner on second, the pitcher started his delivery, hesitated when he saw the runner break, and was called for a balk. This means the runner was awarded third base.
Why it matters
Understanding exactly which motions constitute a balk lets a pitcher build a stretch delivery and pickoff move that is both deceptive within the rules and safe from repeated violations.
Common mistakes
- Failing to come to a complete, visible stop in the stretch before delivering to the plate or a base
- Starting a pitching motion and stopping partway through once a runner unexpectedly breaks
- Faking a throw to a base the pitcher is not required to step toward first (most commonly third base) without actually throwing
- Dropping the ball accidentally during the set position or windup, which is a balk with runners on regardless of intent
Frequently asked questions
Does a balk always advance a runner?
Yes, with a runner on base, a called balk awards one base to every runner. If no runners are on base, the same illegal motion is simply ruled a ball with no base awarded.
Can a pitcher be called for a balk with no runners on base?
The same motion is technically illegal. But it is called a "no pitch" or results in a ball rather than a balk, since there is no runner to award a base to.
Related terms
- Pickoff MoveA pickoff move is a pitcher's legal throw (or step) toward a base with a runner on, aimed at catching that runner off the bag before a pitch is thrown.
- Windup vs. StretchThe windup and the stretch are the two legal pitching positions. This means the full windup, used mainly with the bases empty for maximum power. The stretch, a shorter, quicker delivery used with runners on to control the running game.
- Quick PitchA quick pitch is a pitcher delivering the ball before the batter is set and ready in the box. This means an attempt to catch the hitter off guard that is illegal at most levels of play.
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