FIELDING - Target the trail runner on pick plays

The best time to run a pick play is when the pitcher is in trouble and the opposing offense is rallying. The best base runner to target is not the lead runner, but rather the trail runner.

A defense is typically concerned with the lead runner. He poses the greater threat to scoring a run. Because the runner on third base, for example, draws greater attention than the player standing on first base, that trail runner can be a sitting duck.

Let’s look at an actual game situation. The leadoff batter walks and the following hitter strokes a single to left field. It’s first and second with nobody out. The offense is feeling a big inning and the base runners sense the time to be opportunistic and aggressive. Ordinary thinking tells the defense to keep the runner at second honest so he’s unable to score on a base hit. But instead, let’s focus on the trail runner.

The first baseman is not holding the runner. He’s either playing up to defend a potential bunt or he’s positioned behind the runner. Let’s say the number five hitter is up and the first baseman is playing behind the runner. Immediately, the runner on first has a greater sense of security because he’s not being held on. He’ll take a lead that is larger than usual.

Remember the attention is typically on the runner at second base. Many first and third base coaches help the runner at second by eyeing the middle infielders. The pitcher varies his looks back to the runner at second, rarely glancing to first if at all. The runner on first base is also drawn to what is going on at second. All that is now needed is some commotion at second base to draw everyone’s notice. The second baseman or shortstop breaks for second to pick the runner.

As the runner on first (and base coaches) look to second, the first baseman and pitcher run a timing play. The timing play goes like this. The pitcher looks at the runner on second. As he turns his head, the middle infielder breaks for second base. Once the middle infielder breaks, the first baseman slides behind the runner. The pitcher spins and fires to first base. This play has a high rate of success when it is executed correctly. It’s also an easier play to run with a left-handed pitcher on the mound.

A second option in this situation is a snap throw to first from the catcher after the pitch. As the pitcher delivers, the runner at first shuffles into his secondary lead. The first baseman comes behind the runner to first base just before the ball arrives. This play entails communication between the catcher, first baseman and right fielder.

When there is traffic on the basepaths and you’re in need of a momentum shift, target the trail base runner. Take advantage of their comfort in feeling they’re the runner of lesser importance on base.