1st and 3rd comebacker to the mound (1 out)

Many times while pitchers are practicing their PFP (pitchers fielding practice) they handle comebackers and instinctively turn and throw to 2nd base to start a double play. It's a spring training ritual. However, seldom do you see pitchers handle a comebacker where there is a runner attempting to score AND a potential double play. How should the pitcher handle this situation?

This scenario makes the assumption that the runner at 3rd is running on contact. That is to say that as soon as the ball is hit to the pitcher he will be running home.

The pitcher must absolutely be aware of who is running at home plate and who is running at 1st base. If he can't turn a double play, chasing and preventing a run might be the best option. What would prevent him from turning a double play? If the runner at 1st is in motion before the comebacker is hit. This would prevent a double play and the pitcher should attack the lead runner. Furthermore, if the batter is an A runner and a double play is in doubt because of his speed, the pitcher should go after the lead runner.

However, if he thinks he can turn a double play on a comebacker, he should certainly attempt to do so. He should not even glance at the lead runner as his goal his to divert the pitchers attention if only for a split second to keep the inning alive and prevent a double play from being turned.

This play is absolutely predicated upon the pitcher being prepared prior to the ball being thrown. There is no time to choose the correct play if you're reacting instead of anticipating.

One other factor that does come into play is the score at the time of the comebacker. If the game is not in doubt in this situation the pitcher should not chase the lead runner and try and record the double play.