Friday, December 14, 2007

A pickoff at 2B from the windup.

You seldom see the play where the pitcher throws from the windup and attempts a pickoff at 2B but it at least should be considered a viable option to consider.

With a runner at 2B and the pitcher out of the windup, that means there is a runner at 3B also. So, first and foremost you need to decide if it's worth the risk of throwing to 2B with home plate being a threat if an errant throw is made.

If you believe the throw can be made, here is what can be done.

The catcher simply drops his glove when he sees that the shortstop or 2B have broken to the bag. When they break the catcher drops his glove and the pitcher turns and throws to an awaiting middle infielder. Now, the turn part of the pitcher needs to be practiced. The way it works is the pitcher must drop step with his "posting" leg. He can not initiate movement with his foot that start the delivery.

It can be very effective when done correctly.

The only caveat though is more than likely it would occur with 2 outs and you would need to decide if it is worth the risk of attempting to create a putout in this manner rather than attacking the batter.

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