Balk facts for kids

A balk is a special rule in baseball. It's something a pitcher does that isn't allowed, or illegal. When a pitcher makes a balk, the umpire calls it out. This means that any runners on base get to move up one base. If there are no runners on base, the batter gets a free "ball." It's like a penalty for the pitcher.

What is a Balk in Baseball?

In baseball, a balk is a mistake made by the pitcher. It's important because it affects the game. When an umpire sees a balk, they point to the pitcher and yell "balk!" This signal tells everyone that a rule has been broken. The main result of a balk is that all runners on base get to advance one base. This can help the hitting team score runs. If there are no runners on base, the batter gets a free "ball," which helps them get closer to a walk.

Why Do Balks Happen?

Pitchers have many rules to follow when they are on the mound. These rules help make the game fair for everyone. A balk happens when a pitcher breaks one of these important rules. The umpire, who is like the referee in baseball, watches carefully for these mistakes. The rules are in place to prevent pitchers from tricking runners or gaining an unfair advantage.

Common Ways a Pitcher Can Balk

There are several ways a pitcher can accidentally or purposely make a balk. Here are some of the most common ones:

• Faking a Pitch: A pitcher cannot pretend to throw the ball to the batter without actually completing the pitch. This is sometimes called a "fake pitch."
• Throwing to an Empty Base: If a pitcher throws the ball to a base where there is no runner, it's a balk. They can only throw to a base if they are trying to get a runner out.
• Not Being Ready: The pitcher must wait until the batter and umpire are ready before starting their pitching motion. If they pitch too soon, it's a balk.
• Taking Too Long: Pitchers have a certain amount of time to throw the ball. If they take too long, it can be called a balk, especially with new rules like the pitch clock.
• Dropping the Ball: If a pitcher drops the ball while on the mound, even by accident, it can be called a balk. This is because it could confuse the runners.

There are other specific situations that can also lead to a balk, but these are the main ones you will see.

Images for kids

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  Bob Shaw holds the major league record for most balks in a single game, five.

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  Mike Hauschild (right) talks to an umpire after having been called for a balk