Why is MLB planning to enforce the balk rule and how will it impact the game?

MLB announced that it plans on actively enforcing the balk rule more than it has in recent seasons. While this will certainly benefit the game, as well as make it fairer for batters, it may be easier said than done. Balking is one of the most difficult plays to not only call but to explain to casual fans.

"In a piece for @Diamond_Digest last month, I discussed the new rule changes coming to MLB this year (detailed below) It also seems that MLB will be strictly enforcing the balk rule, so some pitchers, such as Houston’s Luis Garcia, are expected to make changes in their deliveries" - bailey

According to Jeff Passan of ESPN, the MLB is hoping the new crackdown will remove "bouncing" or "rolling" deliveries from pitchers around the league. While umpires will be able to use their discretion while making the calls, the implementation of the new pitch timer will help reduce the number of irregular deliveries.

A few actions that constitute a balk, including starting the pitching motion without completing the pitch, faking a throw to first base, or standing on the rubber and throwing to a base without stepping directly toward that base.

"MLB plans to emphasize enforcement of the balk rule in 2023. The new pitch-timer rule, which mandates a pitcher throw within 15 seconds of receiving the ball with the bases empty and 20 seconds with runners on." - Nick J Marchesani - S+SPORTS

Among the pitchers who will likely be affected by the stricter implementation of the new balk rules will be Kevin Gausman of the Toronto Blue Jays and Luis Garcia of the Houston Astros.

"Windups such as Luis Garcia’s are now illegal under MLB’s new balk rules" - Talkin' Baseball

If the umpire decides to call a balk, any runner on base automatically advances one base. With the implementation of the new rule and stricter enforcement, it remains to be seen how often it will be called. While it is a frustrating rule for fans and pitchers, properly officiated games are something everyone should appreciate.

A look at Kenley Jansen using the balk rule to his advantage in 2019

On June 14, 2019, Los Angeles Dodgers closer Kenley Jansen intentionally balked during a game with the Chicago Cubs. With the Dodgers leading 5-3 in the ninth inning, the Cubs' Jason Heyward stood at second base. Concerned that a runner at second base could possibly steal signs, Jansen intentionally balked, advancing the runner to third base.

Jansen then proceeded to strike out Víctor Caratini for the final out of the game, securing the win for the Dodgers. While it is a rare occurrence, the balk can be beneficial for a pitcher.