What happens if F1 steps towards first base after coming to a complete stop?

When a pitcher, referred to as F1, comes to a complete stop while on the pitcher's mound and then steps towards first base, this action is considered a balk if it is not executed properly according to the rules of baseball. A balk is an illegal move by the pitcher that occurs when he fails to deliver the ball to the batter or makes a motion that misleads the runners.

In this situation, while F1 may intend to perform a pickoff move by stepping towards first base, the critical point is that coming to a complete stop before the action can lead to confusion regarding his intent to deliver a pitch or attempt a play. If he steps toward first after stopping, it can be seen as a deceptive action that violates the rules, thus constituting a balk.

Therefore, this action does not fall into the categories of being a legal play or a proper pickoff move, as those would require the pitcher to maintain the legal mechanics of throwing or picking off the runner without first coming to a complete stop unless dictating a clear intention to pitch or engage in a play. This understanding is essential for players, coaches, and officials to reinforce the integrity of play in baseball.