A balk is defined as an illegal pitching or throwing motion with runners on base; in Major League Baseball, it results in baserunners advancing one base. Balks were in the rule book as early as 1845 and have evolved with the changes in the game. By 1898, balks also included defensive actions and in 1940, a throw or faked throw to an unoccupied base was considered a balk. Another addition to the balk rule was in 1968; it is called when the pitcher puts his hand on his mouth with a base or bases occupied.
Throwing Motions
Pitchers are limited to two basic throwing motions or pitching positions--the full wind-up and the stretch position. The full wind-up is commonly used by starting pitchers and is used with no runners on base. Pitchers (especially relievers) will use the stretch position with runners on base. Because balks arise with runners on base, most will occur when the pitcher is in the stretch position.
While using either throwing motion, the pitcher must stay in contact with the pitching rubber. If the pitcher deviates from the normal pitching motion in an attempt to deceive the runner, a balk shall be called.
Pick-offs
Pitchers use pick-offs in an attempt to catch the runners off the base during a lead-off. Pick-offs also keep the runners close to the base so they are less likely to steal a base. Balks relate to pick-off moves, as pitchers will use different techniques to deceive the runner. Any balk shall result in the base runners advancing one base. When a pitcher executes a pick-off, he must step in the direction of the base and cannot throw or fake a throw to an unoccupied base. A balk occurs when a right-handed pitcher fakes a throw to first base without stepping off the pitcher's plate first. With a left-handed pitcher, a balk occurs when the pitcher's motion moves toward home plate. At the time of moving toward home plate, the pitcher is committed to completing the pitch.
The Set Position
From the stretch position, the pitcher must come to a "set" position before pitching the ball. The pitcher will obtain the sign from the catcher and then come to the set position where the glove hand and pitching hand come together. When the glove and hand come in contact, the pitcher must pause and stop any motion. If the pitcher doesn't stop in the set position, a balk shall be called and all base runners shall advance one base.
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