Monday, November 19, 2007

Runner at 2B, 2 outs(change your cuts?)

With a runner at 2B and 2 outs, should you give thought to changing your cut procedures?

Usually when a single is hit to the outfield with a runner on 2B the 1B hustles in to be the cutoff man in every opportunity that he can make it. There are times when the 3B has to be the cutoff man but in most instances the 1B serves the role of cut man.

I'm suggesting that with 2 outs, the 3B should be that person. Here's why.

Most times the runner is sent home with 2 outs on a single. At least he should be. Well, if the runner is sent home why do you need the 3B holding his ground at 3B. The reason he is there is in case the cut man wants to snap throw behind the runner who is taking a big turn only to hit the brakes and try and retreat. If he is not retreating, why not make the 3B useful?

On another note. The runner with 2 outs is usually running into an out for a run. He rounds 1B hoping to have the cutoff man cut the ball. If the 1B is the cutoff man and no one rotates in behind the runner rounding 1B then he can usually get back even after the ball is cutoff. If the 3B is the cutoff man the 1B is there anchoring down the bag the batter/runner is attempting to get back to.

In both thought processes it makes sense to have the 3B be the cut man with 2 outs.

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