Taking 2B after a clean single

There is a ball hit to the outfield for a clean single. The ball is returned into the infield and the play appears dead ready to move onto the next batter. However, the runner needs to pay attention to the manners of the middle infielders to see if he can move up a base.

Here is what I am talking about.

Single to the outfield and the batter rounds 1B and retreats to the bag. Although he is returning to the bag he has his mind focused on advancing to 2B. As the ball is returned to the infield notice the middle infielders. Often times they catch the ball from the outfielder and throw it to the pitcher. Following the throw is the move that makes them vulnerable.

The middle infielder tosses it to the pitcher and turns his back on the batter now on 1B. The runner notices this and begins to shuffle in the direction of 2B. Ideally, the batter/runner should not have retreated all the way to 1B if the intent is to possibly take 2B.

Upon noticing that the middle infielders are "head droppers" and "back turners" they play begins. Simply, the batter/runner sprints with the ball in the pitchers hand . Although the throw is a short simple one, there are no middle infielders available to catch the ball. Safe at 2B.

In order to successfully execute this play, you must have scouted the defense and noted the tendency to relax after singles to the outfield. Once it is obvious, it simply takes some guts to do it.

Remember the outs rule and try it with two out. It's worth the risk.