Overview
A pickoff throw is a throw by the pitcher from the set position to a base occupied by a runner, aimed at either catching the runner off the bag for an out or limiting their lead to deter a stolen base attempt. It is the most fundamental tool for controlling the running game and an essential component of a pitcher's skill set. The value of the pickoff throw extends beyond the occasional out. Frequent pickoff attempts psychologically constrain runners, shrinking their leads and delaying their jump on steal attempts. Pitchers with effective pickoff moves can focus more fully on the batter, improving their overall pitching performance. Pickoff throws are subject to specific rules. The pitcher must come to a complete stop in the set position before delivering a pitch or throwing to a base; failure to stop constitutes a balk. On throws to first base, the pitcher must step toward the base, and throwing without a proper step also results in a balk call. MLB introduced a pickoff attempt limit in 2023 (two per plate appearance; a third attempt that fails to retire the runner is ruled a balk), which significantly boosted stolen base numbers. NPB has not adopted this restriction, though the possibility of future implementation is under discussion.