What Is a Balk in Baseball? A Complete Guide for Coaches and Parents (NFHS Rules Explained)
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Official Definition (NFHS Rule 6-2-4):
A balk is an illegal act committed by the pitcher with a runner or runners on base, entitling all runners to advance one base.
There are 13 specific infractions that count as a balk under NFHS rules. Below, you’ll find the exact rule language, followed by a no-BS explanation you can actually use.
🔥 The 13 NFHS Balks (with Real Rule Text + Real Talk)
1. Rule 6-2-4a: Failing to come to a complete stop in the set position
“If there is a runner, or runners, it is a balk when the pitcher, while touching the pitcher's plate, fails to make a complete stop with his entire body prior to delivering the pitch.”
Real Talk:
That "quick twitch" from the set is a trap. The pitcher has to pause — still, hands together, for at least a second. No pause? That’s a balk.
2. Rule 6-2-4b: Making a quick pitch
“Makes a quick-pitch.”
Real Talk:
The pitcher throws before the batter is set. Dangerous, shady, and totally illegal. You’re not catching anyone off guard — you’re just giving up a free base.
3. Rule 6-2-4c: Pitching from the set position without coming to a stop
“Pitches from the set position without coming to a complete stop.”
Real Talk:
Even if you think you paused, if it looks rushed or choppy — that’s on you. Refs aren’t guessing. Make the stop obvious.
4. Rule 6-2-4d: Failing to step directly toward a base before throwing
“Throws to a base without stepping directly toward that base.”
Real Talk:
No lazy spins or half-steps. If you’re throwing to 1st, you better step like you mean it. Anything else? Balk.
5. Rule 6-2-4e: Throwing or feinting to an unoccupied base
“Throws or feints a throw to an unoccupied base, except for the purpose of making a play.”
Real Talk:
You can’t just fake to an empty bag to mess with runners. If there’s no runner moving, you’ve got no reason to throw — and the ump will let you know.
6. Rule 6-2-4f: Starting the pitching motion and not finishing
“Delivers a pitch or attempts to do so without having the ball.”
Real Talk:
Start a motion and then freeze like a deer in headlights? Too late. You’ve already triggered the runner. That's a balk.
7. Rule 6-2-4g: Making a pitching motion without the ball
“Delivers a pitch or attempts to do so without having the ball.”
Real Talk:
This is the hidden ball trick — and it’s illegal if the pitcher is on the rubber. Gotta step off if you’re part of that circus.
8. Rule 6-2-4h: Dropping the ball while on the rubber
“Drops the ball while on the pitcher’s plate.”
Real Talk:
Whether it slips or you flinch — if you drop it while on the rubber and runners are on, it’s a free pass. Keep your grip tight.
9. Rule 6-2-4i: Not facing the batter while pitching
“While pitching, fails to face the batter.”
Real Talk:
You’ve got one job — deliver to home. If you’re angled toward first or looking into the dugout, that’s not pitching. That’s a balk.
10. Rule 6-2-4j: Making a motion naturally associated with a pitch and not delivering
“Makes any motion naturally associated with the pitch and fails to deliver the ball.”
Real Talk:
Even a subtle flinch can set off a runner. You move like you're pitching, you better pitch — or you’re giving up bases.
11. Rule 6-2-4k: Failing to have the pivot foot in contact with the rubber
“The pitcher’s pivot foot must be in contact with the pitcher’s plate when starting the pitch.”
Real Talk:
That back foot? It better be touching the rubber, or you’re just freelancing. It’s a setup violation, plain and simple.
12. Rule 6-2-4l: Throwing to a base from the windup without stepping off
“From the windup position, attempting to throw to a base without first stepping off the rubber.”
Real Talk:
If you're in windup, you can’t just sling it to first. Step off before you throw — or eat that balk.
13. Rule 6-2-4m: Failing to deliver after taking the sign
“After the pitcher has taken the sign from the catcher, he fails to deliver the ball to the batter.”
Real Talk:
You take the sign, you’re locked in. No freezing, no faking, no stepping off unless it’s legal. You hesitate, they elevate.
📥 Download the Printable Balk Rule Guide (PDF)
Want a simple, printable version of all 13 NFHS balk rules?
Something you can bring to practice or hand out to your coaching staff and parents?
👉 Download the Elite Diamond Training Balk Rule Guide (PDF)
This 1-page reference sheet breaks down every balk rule clearly and concisely — no fluff, just the facts you need on game day.
🧠 Coach's Tip:
Train pitchers to move deliberately and repeat their delivery every time. Most balks aren’t about deception — they’re about inconsistency and nerves.
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