The delayed steal

The concept of a delayed steal is designed to move a runner into scoring position when a straight steal isn't an option. Maybe the pitcher is simply too quick to the plate. Maybe a delayed steal is an option.

When do you run it? The delayed steal is used with a runner on 1st and 2 outs(infielders are back and not in double play depth) or a 1st and 3rd situation. The steal takes of advantage of 1 or 2 defensive players(middle infielders or catcher).

The most common position to take advantage of is the middle infielders. If the middle infielders are lazy you can run the play. The 2 out man on 1st situation is a common opportunity when the cather receives the ball and the middle infielders drop their heads and don't cover the base. The runer at 1st gets a normal secondary lead and takes off full speed on the third shuffle. It's very important to gain ground on the secondary lead.

The other time to try the play is a 1st and 3rd situation. Why does this work? Well, the defense thinks a play is on and ususally concedes the runner to 2nd as it looks at the runner at 3rd too long. 1st and 3rds lend itself to deceptive plays as high school arms can't handle to much deviation.

A catcher is also vulnerable to the delayed steal if the catcher is a "framer." In other words, if the catcher holds the ball for an extended period he is very vulnerable to this type of steal. As the catcher holds the ball showing the umpire the runner is running towards second. As mentioned earlier in another thread, a lefthanded batter could make this even harder for a catcher because he doesn't have full view of the runner.

It's a play that isn't run too often but it has merit. You've got to know when to try it but it can move a runner into scoring position when a pitcher might not allow you do it.