Stealing and leaving a base
WBSC · 2026–2029In this edition, a runner must remain in contact with the base until the pitcher’s non-pivot foot touches the ground during the pitching movement. After that point, the runner may try to steal while the ball is live, at risk of being put out. The trigger is not simply the release of the ball.
The rule
In this edition, a runner must remain in contact with the base until the pitcher’s non-pivot foot touches the ground during the pitching movement. After that point, the runner may try to steal while the ball is live, at risk of being put out. The trigger is not simply the release of the ball.
In practice
Leaving too early results in an out and a no-pitch call; other runners return to their last legally held bases. Once the pitcher controls the ball inside the pitching circle, an off-base runner must promptly advance or return under the look-back provisions. They cannot repeatedly stop and leave a base while the pitcher merely holds the ball there.
Sources & approach ↗