Ball movement before shot

Question
Hey Jim,

Today before I hit my second shot from the rough I placed the
club head a couple inches behind the ball as normal before my back swing. Just before I started to bring the club back the ball rolled back a little but didn't touch the club head. The ball was sitting up high in the grass and I obviously disturbed it unintentionally. Is there a penalty
for this?

Thanks, Jacquire


Answer
jac,
sorry for the delay,I was answering this question when the power went out, Just got it back last night.

Unfortunately when you take the address position it normally means you grounded the club when this occurs whatever happens to the ball becomes your responsibility. Usually to the tune of one stroke.

I believe it was argued and won that if a golfer addresses the ball and DOES NOT ground the club the movement of the ball is not the golfers responsibility

Thanks
jim