What is a Catcher's Balk in Baseball?
A catcher's balk occurs in baseball when the catcher makes an illegal move while a runner is on base, resulting in the advancement of the runner without the batter hitting the ball.
What Constitutes a Catcher's Balk?
A catcher's balk can be called if the catcher:
- Blocks home plate without the ball
- Fails to return the ball to the pitcher in time
- Interferes with the batter
- Makes any illegal movement while the runner is on base
Consequences of a Catcher's Balk
If a catcher's balk is called, the following consequences apply:
- The runner on base is awarded one base.
- If there are runners on first and third, the runner on third scores.
- If the bases are loaded, the runner on third scores and the runner on second advances to third.
Related Questions and Answers
- Why is it called a balk? Because it is a movement that is illegal and breaks the rules.
- What is the difference between a catcher's balk and a pitcher's balk? A catcher's balk occurs when the catcher makes an illegal move, while a pitcher's balk occurs when the pitcher makes an illegal move.
- Can a runner steal a base on a catcher's balk? Yes, a runner can steal a base if the catcher's balk allows them to advance.
- Is a catcher's balk considered a wild pitch or a passed ball? Neither, it is a separate type of error.
- Can a catcher's balk be appealed? Yes, it can be appealed if the umpire misses the call.
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