balk question

Question
With a runner on second or any base for that matter.My pitcher started his delivery and while in the balance position,held it a little longer than normal but delivered the pitch to the plate. The ump came to me after the inning and said that the next time he did that, he would call a balk because it was not his natural delivery and he was trying the deceive the runner.I said it would not be a balk because pitchers can have many different motions and deliveries and as long as the pitcher follows basic balk rules,his motion can't cause a balk. I coach a 12 year old excellent travel team. I am a retired high school phys ed teacher and coach. I'd like to get your opinion. Thanks a lot and G-d bless you.

Answer
After a pitcher has started his delivery, he is not allowed to pause because, as your umpire said, would be deceiving the runner. The issue with pausing in the middle of the delivery is that with a runner on second, it is an unfair way for the pitcher to hold the runner on the base.

However, if by "held it a little longer" you meant his motion was never stopped just slower than normal, then you would be correct and that would not be a balk.

The only time a pitcher can be balked for not pitching in his natural motion is when his leg kick takes his leg behind the rubber on every pitch. As soon as the leg breaks the rubber he is committed to go to the plate.

Your pitcher may change his motion whenever he likes, as long as he follows the rules. Changing from one acceptable motion to another is not a balk.