Friday, November 16, 2007

Pop up to shallow center. Man on 1st.(< 2 outs)

The ball that goes up in the "bermuda triangle" in front of the centerfielder and beyond the middle infielders can cause some potential problems. But, if the ball does land, there is a chance of still recording an out. But, only if the pitcher knows his responsibility.

So many times, the only place the pitcher is trained to go is to back up a base. Here is an instance where he is so much more than a backup. He must be the player on the base. At least, it's the easiest rotation system to use.

If the pitcher does not go and anchor down 2B, then a ball that lands safely will surely be a hit. But, if one of the three players that is around the ball can gather it up quickly, there might be an opportunity for an out.

The runner can not sprint to 2B right away. He'll try and go as close to the bag as he can and still make it back to 1st if the ball is caught. If the ball lands safely and the defense can pick it up quickly there will be a bang bang play at 2B if the pitcher is where he should be. Which is standing on the 2B bag!

It needs rehearsed as it is an unusual play for the pitcher.

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