First step back on a line drive.

Baserunners need to understand that line drives are a difficult read. A base runner gets on base and he concentrates on all the reads that he might have to make based upon the batted ball. He worries about what he does if the ball is hit on the ground. He thinks about what to do if the ball is hit in the air. And he is told "FREEZE ON A LINE DRIVE." Yet, this advice never works. How many times do we see runners get doubled off after a well hit line drive?

Why?

I believe base runners need to be told "first step back after a line drive." When the line drive is hit the instinct is to run. However, with less than two outs there is a good chance you're not going to advance two bases anyway on a hit to the outfield. Why try and get a good jump when there is no reward at the end of the play.

If you're first step is back you take away the chance of getting doubled up. Furthermore, it helps to prevent that early break when you're told to freeze. And, not only will you not get doubled up but you aren't going to get two bases anyway. So, on so many levels going back on the line drive is the prudent piece of advice that base runners need to hear.

I tell base runners all the time " base to base on line drives." This phrase is an attempt to reinforce the idea that we do not want to get a jump with only one base to advance to.