: Strategies: Defense

Infield Plays

1. Always get the lead runner that is forced to run. This is the runner furthest around the base and in the best position to score. If a player runs when not forced to and there is an easy ‘tag’, then do so, but be aware that with the impact of the ball or glove, there is the possibility the ball will be dropped, and the out is cancelled. If possible, try to complete the double play.
2. With 2 outs, always get the easy out. That will mean touching the base closest to them if a runner is forced to that base, or throwing to first, which is always a force out and a skill all but the youngest should be able to repeat without error.
3. Double Play: This is getting two players out with one batted ball. Usually this is a ball hit on the ground that is thrown to second, then forward to first. Also, any infield line drive with runners on the base is a potential for a double play. If a player fields a line drive, teach them to look and throw quickly to the base the runner should be positioned on before the runner gets back to the base.
4. Give it up: If you have a comfortable lead, at times it will be better to give up a run and get a certain out to keep further runners from advancing to scoring position.
5. Create the force: If you have runners on 1^st and 3^rd, or 2^nd and 3^rd, it may be desirable to intentionally walk the batter to make a force out situation on many or all bases. When a walk occurs, only runners in a ‘forced’ position will advance.
6. Pick-Off: This will usually be signalled by the catcher, or the 1^st baseman will alert the catcher, who will then notify the pitcher that the base runner has an extra large lead off. This is also a good play to distract the concentration of the batter, and delay the ball being pitched to him. Can you spell p-s-y-c-h-o-l-o-g-y?