Can a Pitcher Throw to an Unoccupied Base?
In this article
From the rubber, a pitcher can throw to an unoccupied base only to make a play on a runner. If no runner is heading to that base, throwing there, or faking a throw there, is a balk, and every runner moves up one base.
What the rule says
The official rules list throwing or feinting a throw "to an unoccupied base, except for the purpose of making a play" as a balk. The idea is simple: the pitcher shouldn't be able to stall or deceive runners with throws that have no purpose.
When it's legal
- A runner is advancing. The runner on first breaks for second on a pickoff move, so the pitcher throws to second to get him.
- A runner is caught in a rundown and heading for that base.
- The pitcher steps off the rubber first. Once he legally disengages, pivot foot behind the rubber, he's treated as an infielder and can throw anywhere.
When it's a balk
- Throwing to second base with a runner on first who isn't moving.
- Faking a throw to an empty base to make a runner flinch.
- In MLB, faking a throw to third base while on the rubber, even when third is occupied. That rule changed in 2013 and ended the classic fake-to-third, throw-to-first move.
Quick reference
| Situation, pitcher on the rubber | Legal? |
|---|---|
| Throw to first with a runner on first | Yes (step toward the base) |
| Throw to second when the runner on first is stealing | Yes, making a play |
| Throw to second when nobody is running | No, balk |
| Fake to first base | No, balk |
| Fake to third base (MLB) | No, balk |
| Fake to second base with a runner there | Yes |
| Step off the rubber, then throw anywhere | Yes |
Why it matters with the pitch clock
Since 2023, MLB pitchers get only two pickoff attempts or step-offs per plate appearance under the pitch clock rules. A third that doesn't get an out is a balk, so pitchers now choose their throws carefully, and runners take bigger leads and attempt more stolen bases.
Related terms
More rules and terms: baseball terms explained.
Frequently asked questions
Can a pitcher throw to an unoccupied base?
Only to make a play. While touching the rubber, throwing or faking a throw to an unoccupied base when no runner is heading there is a balk.
When is it legal to throw to an empty base?
When a runner is advancing toward it, such as a runner on first breaking for second, or when the pitcher has stepped off the rubber and is treated as an infielder.
Is the fake-to-third, throw-to-first move legal?
Not in MLB since 2013. Faking a throw to third base from the rubber is now a balk. Some amateur rule books still differ, so check your league.
What happens on a balk?
The ball is dead and every runner advances one base.
