A 3B coach's signs. Do I need to repeat if...

A team has offensive signals. These signals are designed to communicate to the batter and base runner what is expected of them. One question that should arise at some point is "Is the sign on until you take it off?"

For example, the steal sign is given and the pitcher then proceeds to throw to 1B in an attempt to pick off the runner. Is the steal sign still on? This is a topic that must be addressed as a coaching staff. I believe it is a neglected item among baseball coaches but one that is very important.

Consider the pros and cons of giving the sign again.

Pros:

1) In amateur baseball it is a good idea to leave nothing in doubt. If you want something done on a certain pitch- give the sign.
2) It promotes a mindset of always looking for a sign.

Cons:

1) Anytime someone gives a sign, the defense is a little more alert.
2) The defense has an opportunity to "steal" your sign if it continues to repeat itself.

I think in amateur baseball that the pros outweigh the cons. Hopefully the signal package isn't so obvious that the other team would be able to pick up on a sign so quickly.

I might suggest this, however. In a classic bunt scenario where the pitcher throws ball after ball and the batter looks down and the sign is given. It might be advantageous to call time or even anticipate the scenario before he gets in the batters box and say "I want you to bunt until I give you the bunt sign." In this manner, you don't have to continue to give the sign and you have verbally expressed to him what you want him to do. I have done this many times with success. But, it's only in this anticipated bunt situation.