Section 7: Violations & Penalties
7.1 Balk (OBR Rule 6.02(a))
Per OBR Rule 6.02(a), it is a balk when a pitcher, while in contact with the pitcher's plate, commits any of the following acts (among others):
- Makes any motion associated with a pitch without actually delivering the pitch.
- Fakes a throw to first or third base while in contact with the pitcher's rubber.
- Fails to step directly toward a base before throwing to that base while on the rubber.
- Pitches while not facing the batter.
- Makes a quick pitch (an intentionally rushed delivery before the batter is set).
- Drops the ball while on the rubber.
- Fails to come to a full and complete stop in the set position before delivering the pitch.
- Delivers a pitch while the catcher is not in the catcher's box (intentional walk, Rule 6.02(a)(12)).
Penalty: Each runner is awarded one base. The batter receives no benefit unless forced to advance.
7.2 Illegal Pitch (OBR Rule 6.02(b))
Per OBR Rule 6.02(b), an illegal pitch is a pitch delivered while the pitcher's pivot foot is not in contact with the pitcher's plate (when no runners are on base). The penalty is a ball added to the count. If a batter reaches base safely on an illegal pitch, or if all runners advance one base on the play, the illegal pitch is disregarded.
7.3 Interference (OBR Rule 6.01)
Per OBR Rule 6.01, interference is an act by the team at bat that impedes, hinders, or confuses any fielder attempting to make a play. Types of interference include:
- Batter interference (Rule 6.01(a)): Batter interferes with the catcher's throw by stepping out of the batter's box, or by any other act. Penalty: The batter is out; runners return to their bases.
- Runner interference (Rule 6.01(a)(5)): A runner intentionally contacts a batted or thrown ball or a fielder. Penalty: The runner is out; other runners may or may not be allowed to advance.
- Spectator interference (Rule 6.01(e)): A spectator reaches out of the stands and touches a live ball. Penalty: The umpire shall impose penalties sufficient to nullify the act of interference. The ball is dead.
- Catcher's interference (Rule 6.01(g)): The catcher hinders or impedes the batter. The batter is awarded first base; runners advance if forced.
7.4 Obstruction (OBR Rule 6.01(h))
Per OBR Rule 6.01(h), obstruction is the act of a fielder who, while not in possession of the ball and not in the act of fielding the ball, impedes the progress of any runner. Two types are defined:
- Type A (Rule 6.01(h)(1)): Obstruction occurs while a play is being made on the obstructed runner. The ball is dead; the obstructed runner is awarded at least the base they were attempting to reach.
- Type B (Rule 6.01(h)(2)): Obstruction occurs while no play is being made on the obstructed runner. Play continues; the obstructed runner is protected from being put out.
7.5 Foreign Substances and Doctored Balls (OBR Rule 6.02(c))
Per OBR Rule 6.02(c), a pitcher shall not apply a foreign substance of any kind to the ball, deface the ball in any manner, deliver a shine ball, spit ball, mud ball, or emery ball, or intentionally damage or roughen the surface of the ball. Umpires are empowered to inspect the pitcher and catcher for foreign substances at any time. As of June 2021, MLB implemented enhanced enforcement of this rule with mandatory checks:
- Penalty (Rule 6.02(c)(7)): The pitcher is ejected from the game and suspended for ten games.
- The ball is removed from play.
7.6 The Infield Fly Rule Violation
When the infield fly rule is in effect and the umpire declares "Infield Fly," the batter is automatically out regardless of whether the ball is caught. If a fielder intentionally drops an infield fly, the ball remains live and in play (OBR Rule 5.09(a)(12)). Runners may advance at their own risk.
7.7 Appeal Plays (OBR Rule 5.09(c))
Per OBR Rule 5.09(c), an appeal is when a fielder claims a runner failed to touch a base, failed to retouch a base after a fly ball was caught, or missed home plate. An appeal must be made before the next pitch, intentional base on balls, or the infielders leave the infield after the third out. To appeal, the pitcher, catcher, or any other fielder must tag the runner or the missed base while the ball is in play. The umpire will then rule on whether the appeal is valid.
7.8 Pine Tar Incident and Bat Violations (OBR Rule 3.02(c))
If a bat with pine tar or other material extending more than 18 inches (45.72 cm) from the knob is discovered after a home run is hit, the home run stands and the bat is removed from play (see Pine Tar Game precedent, reaffirmed in 2023 rule clarification). The batter is not called out for having an illegal bat unless the bat is discovered during the at-bat per Rule 6.03(a)(5).
7.9 Ejections and Suspensions (OBR Rule 8.04)
Per OBR Rule 8.04, umpires are authorized to eject any player, manager, or coach who commits objectionable acts, including but not limited to: arguing balls and strikes, using offensive language, inciting spectators, or refusing to comply with umpire rulings. Ejected individuals must leave the playing field immediately and are subject to further discipline from the Commissioner's Office including fines and suspensions.