In the intricate world of baseball, few rules spark as much confusion and debate as the balk rule. Designed to prevent pitchers from deceiving base runners, a balk can dramatically shift the momentum of a game.
When a pitcher commits a balk, it results in a dead ball or delayed dead ball, with all base runners advancing one base.
Understanding the nuances of the balk rule is crucial for players, coaches, and fans alike. In professional baseball, governed by the Official Baseball Rules, the enforcement of a balk can vary, sometimes nullifying the pitch entirely.
Meanwhile, under high school rules set by the National Federation of State High School Associations, a balk leads to an immediate dead ball.