In Situation K, when does a quick pitch result in a balk?

A quick pitch is considered a balk when there is a runner on base. This is because the rules are designed to protect the base runners from being caught off-guard. If a pitcher delivers the ball to the batter before they are ready, particularly with runners on base, it creates an unfair advantage for the pitcher and may confuse the runner. The rule also emphasizes the need for the pitcher to provide the batter with an opportunity to prepare for the pitch. In contrast, when there is no runner on base, the quick pitch does not have the same impact or potential for unfairness, so it would not be classified as a balk in that situation. Thus, in this context, the action of the pitcher is monitored closely and must adhere to specific pitching regulations when there are runners on base to maintain fairness in the game.