Monday, February 11, 2008

Signals that should be "discreet"

Not every signal that a 3B coach gives should be a formal process. There needs to be some signals that can be communicated extremely quick. These signals should be very inconspicuous and should look like a very normal part of a coach's actions. What are these signals?

1- The bunt for a hit. When a coach communicates to a player that he would like him to bunt for a hit there may or may not be players on base. If there are not players on base you don't want to run through a whole set of signals to say "bunt for a hit." I mean what other sign might you have given? None. Therefore, the bunt for the hit would be the only option. Make it very discreet and you've got a legitimate chance to communicate the message.

2- Steal of 3B. If you have a runner on 2B by himself there really aren't too many other things you would communicate other than a straight steal of 3B. This signal should be discreet and quick.

3- Take. You want to say "take this pitch" as quickly as possible with as little fanfare as possible.

4- Swing or "greenlight" should be communicated as quickly as the take sign.

A coach that communicates these signs and maybe some others understands the nuances of the game. Not every signal can be given in every circumstance. So, why pretend that any signal could be given. The above scenarios require a quick message rather than a detailed procession of signals.

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