When baserunners get to 1st and 2nd with 0 out, a bunt defense is usually put on by the defense. This is to ensure that the defense knows their priorities when a ball gets bunted.
One of the more aggressive and obscure bunt defenses is called the "flash" play.
As the pitcher comes set, he glances at the lead runner at 2B. When he sees the SS flash to 2B behind the lead runner, the pitcher delivers the ball home. The efficacy of the play revolves around the deception of the shortstop. The shortstop must resoundingly scream "ball, ball, ball" when driving the runner back to 2B. The runner will more than likely retreat to 2B. The 3B coach might even yell "back!" We're hoping so anyway.
As soon as the pitcher sees daylight between the runner and the SS he needs to slide step and deliver the ball to the plate. The slide step is important because the runner isn't given an opportunity to shuffle back to a normal secondary position.
When the ball gets bunted, the 3B is attempting to hold his ground because he will be catching the throw at 3B. If the pitcher can't get the ball the 3B must vacate the bag to field the ball. However, in a perfect world, the pitcher will field the ball and turn to throw to the 3B awaiting the throw.
The play is designed to work because the lead runner will be asked to run close to 90 feet rather than 75 feet or so.
The catcher must absolutely understand our priorities here. We're thinking throw to 3B if at all possible. If not, we'll take the out at 1B but we did a lot to simply record the basic out at 1B.
This defense is a very challenging defense for the 3B as he must make a read as to what he should do. Ideally he should stay. However, if the offense does its' job, the 3B must leave to record an out.
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