| The answer to this often debated question is yes. | | | | Rule 8.05 in the official baseball rule book is the |
| The pitcher is allowed to throw to an unoccupied | | | | rule applying in this play. The rule states: |
| base if a runner is making an attempt to reach | | | | 8.05 If there is a runner, or runners, it is a balk |
| that base. The pitcher does not have to step off | | | | when (d) The pitcher, while touching his plate, |
| or clear the runner to make this throw. | | | | throws, or feints a throw to an unoccupied base, |
| For example, there is a runner on second base. | | | | except for the purpose of making a play. |
| The runner on second base breaks for third and | | | | The rule clearly states that a pitcher has the right |
| the pitcher realizes what is happening. The pitcher | | | | to make a play on an advancing runner. |
| being in his stretch delivery, steps toward third | | | | There are two things that the pitcher must |
| with his stride foot, and throws to third to get | | | | remember when making this play: |
| the runner out. | | | | 1. The pitcher must step directly toward a base |
| The rule as stated in the rule book makes this | | | | before throwing to that base. The 45-degree rule |
| play legal. The pitcher is entitled to make a throw | | | | applies as judged by the umpire. |
| to second or third base if the runner is attempting | | | | 2. The pitcher can not stop his pitch motion to |
| to advance. When the runner makes an attempt | | | | the plate to try and make a play on the runner. |
| to steal a bag, he is making an effort to advance. | | | | Once a pitcher commits his motion toward the |
| The pitcher has a right to make a play on an | | | | plate, the pitch must be thrown to the plate. |
| advancing runner. Then the pitcher is making a | | | | I hope this article was informative and interesting |
| legal play in throwing to the base in an attempt to | | | | to you. I thank you for taking the time to read it. |
| make the play. | | | | |