What Is A Balk In Baseball?
A balk is a move by the pitcher that is against the rules of baseball. When a balk is called, the batter is awarded first base.
Definition of a balk
A balk is a mistake a pitcher can make that allows runners to advance. It’s against the rules of baseball for a pitcher to pretend to throw the ball while standing on the mound, and if he does so, it’s called a balk.
Examples of a balk
In baseball, a balk is defined as “a pitch or throwing motion which is illegal and is called by the umpire.” There are numerous examples of a balk, but the most common one is when the pitcher steps outside of the pitching rubber while still holding the ball.
How to avoid a balk
A balk is called when a pitcher commits an illegal motion while on the mound with a runner or runners on base. The pitcher is not allowed to make any sudden movements that would lead the runners to believe that they might be picked off or thrown out at first. If there is a runner on first, the most common type of balk is when the pitcher tries to pick him off by making a throwing motion to first base without actually throwing the ball. Other types of balks can occur when the pitcher fake throws to second or third base in an attempt to pick off runners who have advanced too far off those bases.
Consequences of a balk
When a balk is called, the pitcher is automatically charged with a ball, and any runners on base are awarded one base. For example, if there are two outs and a runner on first base when a balk is called, the runner will advance to second base and the batter will remain at bat with two outs. In most cases, the balk is called when the pitcher attempts to deceive the batter or the baserunner.
