Saturday, May 31, 2008

Stealing 3rd base with 1 out and 2 strikes on batter?

One of the primary objectives of offensive baseball is to get to 3B with 1 out. However, is stealing 3B a prudent decision if there are 2 strikes on the batter and 1 out in the inning?

In other words, is it worth an attempt of 3rd base if while he is running it becomes the 2nd out?

The answer isn't a cut and dry answer but it is noteworthy to understand some variables that go into the decision.

1) What kind of hitter is the batter? Does he strike out a lot? If the answer is yes then it might not be a prudent decision to attempt a steal.

2) What kind of hitter is the on deck batter? If the on deck batter is a good stick, then absolutely do not attempt a steal. You would hate to risk such a play when a base hit by a good hitter would drive the runner in during the next at bat.

3) What is the likelihood of the pitcher throwing a breaking ball? If a breaking ball can be anticipated or even recognized then even if the batter does strike out there is a good chance that third base would be reached anyway.

It's one of those "roll of the dice" decisions. It's not an easy one but it's certainly an easier one if you have some solid information to choose from.

Friday, May 30, 2008

The inside move and infielder action.

The inside move is a deceptive move employed by pitchers to deceive the runner at 2nd base. It has many purposes in the game of baseball and is used quite frequently at predictable times.

Let's look at the inside move and how the middle infielders need to react.

Typically, the inside move is used with a runner at 2nd base and 1 out. 1 out is when runners are attempting to steal third base. The inside move is the move of choice to catch those would be base stealers attempting to steal 3rd base. The middle infielders need to avoid getting near 2nd base. We do not want the middle infielders drawing attention to the runner. This might deter the runner from attempting a stolen base.

Other times that an inside move might be used is to observe bunt activity. If this is the case, we don't want our infielders tipping our hand and moving out of position.

We could use the inside move in a 3-2 count 2 out forced scenario. We do not want our middle infielders alerting the baserunners that something could be up.

The one time that we do want our middle infielders jockeying the runner or moving in for the "pickoff" is when we don't suspect that the runner is attempting a steal. Rather, we think he is getting an extended lead too early. The logistics of this is a middle infielder moves into cover the bag as the pitcher lifts his leg to drive the runner back to the bag.

Because most inside moves involve the middle infielders avoiding the bag, there should more than likley be a sign from the catcher that communicates there is a pickoff coming and you need to be there.

A nuance of the game that can impact a game. The inside move is a deceptive move. It is based upon deception. Middle infielders need to be cognizant of how we want runners to react.

Thursday, May 29, 2008

Open hand and open glove pickoff

The manner in which professional players ask for a pickoff attempt at 2nd base is extending their arm in the direction of 2nd base. If they're the 2B it's an open bare hand. If it's the SS, it's an open glove as they approach the bag.

The pitcher, when he sees daylight(space between the runner and the infielder), turns and fires to the awaiting infielder.

The pickoff play is predicated on the ability of the pitcher to spin glove side and throw to the bag for the awaiting infielder. The play needs good timing and understanding of when to use this move.

The middle infielder should ask for this type of pickoff in one of two spots. The first time that the pickoff would be appropriate is when the runner is attempting to steal 2nd base. Primarily, this comes with 1 out as the man on 2nd attempts to reach 3rd base with 1 out. The primary lead might get a little too big and the runner become very vulnerable at 2nd base.

A second time that this pickoff would be appropriate is with a man on 2nd and a bunt situtaion. Often times the runner at 2nd is trying to get a larger lead so he can advance on the bunted ball. This advantage that he is trying to gain can be exploited with this pickoff. Typically it follows the wheel play. After the runner on 2nd sees the wheel, the defense uses the pickoff play at 2nd base. The shortstop breaks to 3rd ane the 2B breaks to the bag and the pitcher turns and fires to the bag for a pickoff attempt.

This play needs a major caveat. That caveat is in amateur baseball sometimes it's very difficult for a pitcher to be accurate with this throw. If a pitcher can't turn and throw to the bag, then it shouldn't be utilized.

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

A common sign of a poorly coached team(MIDDLE INFIELDERS)

In little league baseball when a runner steals, both middle infelders run to the bag. One goes to catch the ball. The other goes to backup the throw. This makes a lot of sense. In little league, you're not allowed to steal until the catcher catches the ball. By then, the ball has already passed the hitter. You can back up the throw with as many players as you feel is necessary.

But, as these little leaguers matriculate into older players, players are allowed to steal prior to the ball getting to the catcher. This means the ball is in flight and the hitter has an opportunity to hit the ball. You certainly do not want both middle infielders to cover the bag when there is an opportunity for the ball to be hit. Talk about opening up a hole.

Yet, this obvious nuance can often times be neglected by coaches when they work with infielders. In fact, just this year in a District playoff game a highly respected team had both infelders cover 2nd base on a steal attempt. They throw sailed over the 2B's head and was caught by the shortstop. Huh?

Of course, no one thought twice about that. He is supposed to back up right? NO! The centerfielder is the primary backup and the other infielder gets there when he can. But, definitely not in time to catch an errant throw.

Fans aren't supposed to notice this but coaches are.

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Hitting paradox: "slow feet" vs. "get your front foot down"

The phrases "slow feet" and "get your front foot down on time" are common pieces of hitting advice. They seem contradictory in nature but both are solid pieces of advice. You need to take a closer look at what each piece of advice is saying.

Let's see.

"Slow feet" refers to the concept of not moving your weight so quickly in the direction of the pitch. When we step to initiate the swing we need to step softly so we can keep our balance. So, technically, slow feet should be communicated as stay balanced as you stride. But slow feet is often used rather than stay balanced as you stride.

"Get your front foot down" refers to being in position to fire your hands. You can't swing the bat until your front foot lands completely. So, get your front foot down doesn't necessarily mean that you need to step and then swing. It means you need to be prepared to hit. This is especially a good piece of advice if the pitcher is throwing very hard.

The dynamics of the elite swing can be very complicated. Words used by coaches to express things to their players can be very confusing. It is essential that players and coaches clearly understand what is meant when coaches attempt to teach hitting. The side effects could be dangerous.

Monday, May 26, 2008

Signal "yes" to the squeeze

When a squeeze is given to a player, should the player signal that he did in fact receive the sign? Many coaches suggest that you don't want to send a runner home if the batter is unaware of the sign. Could you imagine a player sprinting in the direction of home plate and the batter swinging away. It does sound rather crazy.

But, I contend that a return signal should not be given. I believe that the batter should not confirm the sign with his coach. The reason is obvious.

If a batter does something out of the ordinary in a possible squeeze situation, the defense has the potential of pitching out and recording an out at home plate. One sure fire way of deciding whether or not to pitch out is if the batter calls attention to himself in a squeeze scenario.

Is it dangerous? It could be if you don't practice the signs and signals enough.

Is it bad baseball? It's bad baseball to signal yes on a squeeze. What that tells me is that the offense doesn't know that the pitchout is an option in defending the squeeze.

Less than 2 outs and a man on 3rd. You should defiintely be looking for anything out of the ordinary- like a "confirmation" of some kind.

Sunday, May 25, 2008

Who to trust? Ray Knight's comments

Ray Knight played and managed in the major leagues. He would be by all accounts and expert on baseball. DON'T JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER!

Here is what he commented on the other night watching a Washington Nationals game.

Christian Guzman is on 3rd base. There is an additional runner on 2nd base and there is only one out. The batter hits a line drive to the center fielder that is deep enough to score Guzman from third. On the replay they show Guzman at third base and what you see is Guzman executing a perfect "contact" play. He breaks toward home plate as soon as the ball hits the bat. When he recognizes that the ball was hit in the air he retreats to tag. He gets to the bag as soon as the outfielder catches the ball. He then immediately redirects himself home to score. I was watching the play and thought "WOW, perfect execution."

Ray Knight, the professional broadcaster, begins admonishing Guzman. "There is absolutely no reason he should have been heading home there. As soon as the ball was hit in the air he should have been going back to the bag."

I guess it's difficult to expect amatuer coaches to know the game and teach the game when professionals don't know it either.

Ray Knight's comments were extremely unsettling. He owes Christian Guzman an apology.

Saturday, May 24, 2008

Pitcher is a one looker. But, how?

When a runner gets to 2nd base, good offensive teams look to see if the pitcher is a one looker. In other words, does he check the runner at 2nd once only and then throw home. This means he is pitching in rhythm. If a pitcher always pitches at the same tempo, he is vulnerable to a steal of 3B.

However, I think that there might be more to it than that. I think that being a one looker doesn't tell the whole story. Some pitchers do a better job than others at holding runners at 2nd despite being a one looker. So, what's the difference?

It's the manner in which they look once.

Let's break the look down into three parts. There is the pre-look, the look and the post-look. How do all three affect the base stealers ability to steal the bag?

The biggest opportunity exists when there is a large gap between the look and the post-look. When a pitcher looks at the runner at 2nd he then must re-focus his attention back to the catcher and pitching to the hitter. When the pitcher takes a slightly longer period of time after his look it allows for the runner to gain an advantage by shuffling in the direction of third base. The same shuffle can be taken when the time period is small but it's harder to ask the runner to trust his shuffle when it very well might be that the pitcher still has his eyes on you.

Another opportunity exists during the pre-look. This is the time that the pitcher gets his signal and prepares to come set and look at the runner. A base stealer prefers that the pitcher take his time in getting his signal. This allows him to get a feel for where the middle infielders are so he can slightly extend his lead. A quick tempo for the pitcher in the pre-look takes some prepatory work away from the basestealer.

In a nutshell, a one looker comes in many different styles. The easiest one looker to steal on is the deliberate one looker. The hardest one to steal on is the quick working one looker.

Friday, May 23, 2008

3B coach, 1st and 2nd 1 out. What to think?

This situation is interesting for a variety of reasons. We need to understand that with 1 out already it doesn't do us a great deal of good if the runner at 2B gets to 3B by way of another out. So the hit and run might not be a great option. However, the hit and run becomes a great option if you believe there is a chance that the defense actually might cover both bases. If the 2B goes to cover 2nd and the 3B covers 3rd, we've got a good chance of a ball going through a vacated hole. Well coached teams don't allow for this and therefore would be impetus enough to avoid the hit and run.

A straight steal? Definitely a possibility. Especially early in the at bat before a batter gets 2 strikes on him. If you attempt to steal with 2 strikes you are running the risk of making the 3rd out of an inning at 3rd. A cardinal sin.

What if the count goes 3-1 or 3-2? Do you start the runners (I call this a 3 ball hit and run)? It depends on many variables. Often times it simply comes down to "what gives the defense a better chance of turning a double play?" At lower levels of amateur baseball the easiest double play would be a strike em out throw em out double play. However, as the level of baseball improves and defenses can turn double plays the efficacy of starting runners improves.

Let's say you choose not to steal or hit and run. Now you need to consider what you're going to do on certain balls in the infield and base hits. The lead runner is forced which allows him to get a decent break off of 2nd. If the ball is hit on the ground and it is through to the outfield you should definitely consider waving him home. Furthermore, if the ball is fielded by an infielder who attempts to turn a double play you should send the runner home. If the double play is turned, the runner heading home is academic anyway. If the batter is safe, you'll potentially score a run. This is certainly worth a risk with what has become a 2 out situation.

If the ball gets through to the outfield you need to assist the lead runner in his decision home but allow the trail runner to coach himself. Poor 3rd base coaches will often try and assist the man coming around 2nd and in turn stop the runner rounding 3rd. They will do this unintentionally but will do it nonetheless.

If the 3B coach sends the runner going around 3rd he then picks the runner coming around 2nd up and assists only in whether or not he should slide into 3B. It is and should be taught as the runners decision whether or not to try and advance to 3B.

There's a lot to consider in this scenario. Advanced thinking makes the in the moment decisions a lot more manageable.

Thursday, May 22, 2008

Fake steal of 3B with a bunt for a hit.

There is a runner on 2B. The batter has an idea that he wants to bunt for a hit. Is there anything that the runner can do to assist his cause? How about a fake steal?

When the runner at 2B takes off in the direction of the 3B, the 3B begins to work in the direction of the bag to handle the throw. If the 3B is moving towards the bag he is moving away from the batter and a would be bunt attempt. So, therein lies the efficacy of the play.

The runner bluffs a steal of 3B. He doesn't need a lot. He just needs to enough to get a runner call. When the runner gives the impression that a steal is taking place the thirdbaseman moves towards the bag as the ball gets bunted in his direction.

Fake steal with a bunt.

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

A bunt defense that defies all expectations

In a 1st and 2nd bunt defense, there is supposed to be some protocol as to what each player is responsible for. At least, that's what baseball coaches expect. Yet, one game in 2006 presented me with something that befuddled me and my players. In hindsight, we can analyze it and determine what course of action is best. In the moment, it was confusing because the defense broke the "baseball" rules.

Runners on 1st and 2nd, 0 out. Tying run was on 2nd and the go ahead run was on 1st. It was an obvious bunt scenario.

Time was called and a conference occurred on the mound. I knew this was an obvious pickoff time and stated so much to both runners. But, what occurred next even confsued me. Why? It was so blatantly egregious in it's baseball understanding that it caught both me and my runners off guard.

The thirdbaseman in this situation is supposed to hold his ground unless the shortstop covers 3B. In this scenario, the 3B ran in the direction of the batter- like 10 ft. from his face in. The 1B did the same thing. The shortstop did not break for third. The base was totally vacated. The runner at 2B looked in the direction of 3B as the pitcher turned and threw to the 2B covering the bag. Unbelievable! We were picked off.

In hindset, the runner at 2B should have been looking at the 3B and if he took off he should have stolen the base behind the 3B. But, without being prepared to look at the 3B, the runner was awestruck. In addition, the batter could have simply called time when he saw the corner infielders crashing in his direction.

The play's success was predicated on its' surprise. The surprise being that it was BAD baseball in doing what was done. The effect was great because if you're not prepared to take advantage of bad baseball- is it really bad?

A lesson learned.

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

The fastball "up" will determine your threshold

Hitting a baseball is a challenge. You're responsible for hitting the ball in, away, up and down. You're expected to handle pitches that curve, sink, are slower and of course get faster and faster. Of all the pitches that a hitter could see, one of them determines the success that a player will ultimately have. It's the fastball up. And, if you want to get really specific "up and in."

The fastball up is the pitch that requires the quickest timing. It doesn't allow for any bat drag at all. A little slow to the ball? You're beat.

A slightly poor swing can still get to the ball down. The barrel loops a little bit and the bat can still make consistent contact with that ball down in the zone.

However, the fastball up and in requires an extremely short swing to get the barrel to the ball. This short swing is paramount to being an effective hitter as you climb the baseball ladder. The short swing allows players the ability to look away and handle the ball on the outside corner. The short swing also enables hitters to be good breaking ball hitters. Hitters with these swings allow the ball to get deep and can drive it to the opposite field.

A long swing will cause players to pull off quickly so they don't get jammed and can put the barrel on the inside pitch.

It's important to understand that hitting an inside fastball well doesn't mean you're hitting it correctly. One way of knowing if you're handling the inside pitc h correctly is if you can stay on the ball away. If you can drive the ball that is away and also handle the inside pitch- well, you got it.

All swings should begin and end with the ability to hit the up and in inside fastball. This short swing makes teaching the other zones of the plate managebale. Without this short swing, you're spitting into the wind.

Monday, May 19, 2008

"Contact" at 2B?

Typically the "contact" play is reserved for 3B. Before I proceed any further, let's review what exactly the "contact" play is. The play, by definition, is when a runner at 3B breaks to the plate as soon as the ball hits the bat. If the ball is hit on the ground, he continues on his way to home plate. If the ball is lifted and hit in the air, he retreats to the bag to make a "read" or a decision as to what to do. It's very aggressive and puts the runner at risk on line drives to the infielders.

Is there a time and place to ask the runner at 2B to execute the "contact" play?

I believe there most definitely is.

Although I have never heard of a coach teaching such a base running read, I contend there is a time and a place to ask a runner to do such a thing.

Runner is at 2B with 1 out. This much must be true. With 0 outs, it makes absolutely no sense to ask the runner to make a "contact" read at 2B. However, if a runner stands at 2B with 1 out he is taught to "read" the batted ball. Breaking on contact is the equivalent of a 2 out read with the exception that you may have to hit the breaks and retreat once the flight of the ball is determined.

So, what situation might exist where we would want a runner at 2B to make a 1 out "contact" read at 2B.

Here's what I think.

The pitcher is controlling the game. We, as an offensive team, have been struggling. Hits have come few and far between. So, I want to roll the dice and ask the runner on 2B to get a big jump on a batted ball. The same reads would apply at 2B that apply at 3B. As soon as the ball hits the bat, he's off. If the ball is hit on the ground he runs. If he is going to be out by a lot he gets in a rundown. If the batter gets lift, he retreats and makes a good read. Are there some risks? Obviously. But, there are risks with the normal contact play and desparate times call for desparate measures.

Now, I think the best time to try this play would be with a left handed batter up where a ball hit to the left side is less of a chance. You wouldn't want to be foolish and run your runner into an out arbitrarily. So, a lefty in the box rather than a righty would make more sense.

Here are the pros and cons.

Ball is hit in the air. Really nothing changes with the contact read. You would have to stop and make a decision. You don't run blindly.

Ball is hit on the line. We very well would be doubled up but then again I see us doubled up many times with traditional reads. If we're going to get doubled up on a hesitant read we might as well be aggressive. Also, this aggressive read gives us a great chance to score on balls that get through now. As opposed to holding at 3B on a "freeze" on line drives read.

Ball is hit on the ground. We are moving on contact and have a decent chance of scoring. If the ball is hit to the left side of the infield we would have to get in a rundown and try and let the trail runner advance.

I think if a coach were going to teach some of these concepts he would be well served to ask the runner at 2B to treat it like a 2 out read and set a deeper angle as he would be expected to score on a hit.

I think the play has merit. But, I would never discuss with a professional coach. I know their opinion of anything "outside the box" already.

Sunday, May 18, 2008

Terrible advice for a hitter - "get your arms extended"

You watch a baseball game on TV and you hear an announcer say " he likes to get his arms extended." What that basically means is "he doesn't like to get jammed." Of course, no one likes to get jammed. We all prefer to hit the ball on the barrel. But, do players actually try and extend their arms when they hit. If they do, they won't be hitting long.

"Get your arms extended" can be insidious advice to hitters. It can rob bat speed and actually be the root cause of many other symptoms that a hitter is trying to prevent.

Try stepping in the direction of the pitcher and extend your arms early.

Try driving the ball the other way and extend your arms early.

Try keeping your head on the ball and extend your arms early.

Try hitting hard ground balls and back spin line drives and extend your arms early.

Not going to happen! Yet, we'll watch an "expert" explain to us that players like to get their arms extended when they hit. Uh, not exactly.

Players prefer the barrel on the ball and it certainly is easier to do this if they don't have to pull their hands in. But, that is exactly how players hit the inside pitch -by doing the exact opposite of getting your arms extended.

Think about one thing. Why do players hit the ball pull side farther than they hit it to the opposite field? Mostly because of two primary reasons.

1) The radius at which the knob of the bat moves in relation to ones center of gravity becomes smaller causing more bat speed.(Extending the arms causes a larger radius) Some people refer to this as a fishhook effect or flailing or weather vaning. Whatever the name, it's not extending the arms.
2) The bat head travels a further distance allowing more force to be applied to the bat longer. This creates greater forces at contact.

Listen for it. You won't have to listen long. UGH!

Saturday, May 17, 2008

1st and 2nd 1 out.

It's certainly a baseball situation that occurs often. Runners on 1st and 2nd with 1 out. What should the defense consider? The bunt? Nah, there is one out. So, what is it that the catcher is doing at professional levels when he comes out from behind home plate and signals something?

What he is doing is making sure his defense knows what to do in case of a double steal.

With 1 out and a man on 2B it is certianly a good time to try and get to 3B with 1 out. It's a basic baseball tenet to get to 3B with 1 out. But, if both runners take off you don't want the 3B trying to cover the bag and one of the middle infielders trying to cover the bag. So, you come out in front of home plate and tell the defense with a signal which base you'll be throwing to if both runners take off.

Now, what goes into deciding what base you'll be throwing to? The speed of both runners governs that decision. If you have speed at 2nd and not much speed at 1st you would be inclined to throw the runner out at 2B. You would give a signal that would alert the 3B to hold his ground and alert the middle infielders to cover the bag.

It's what the signals mean but I'm not sure I agree with giving the signal in amateur baseball.

Here's why.

What if the trail runner doesn't run? There is no guarantee that he will. I think it puts a large burden on the catcher to know if both runers take off and where the ball goes if in fact they do. It's much easier to throw the lead runner out if he goes. One thing that is certain is the trail runner can't steal without the lead runner running.

Professional baseball is so tradition based. It begs the question when the catcher comes out and gives the signal, "why not steal the lead runner and hold the trail runner" in case the signal was for the trail runner?

Something to consider. From a cather's perspective it certainly would be a lot to tackle in the heat of the moment.

Friday, May 16, 2008

2nd and 3rd, infield in. Is their a pickoff opportunity?

When runners are on 2nd and 3rd and the infield comes in, is their a chance for a pickoff of the trail runner. I think yes. Despite the fact that I've never seen this pickoff attempt before, I think it could be successful.

Here's the nuts and bolts behind the pickoff.

When the infield comes in the infielders are in front of the runner at 2B. He can, therefore, get a substantially larger lead. It's this lead that we want to take advantage of with the pickoff at 2B. As the pitcher comes set, the 2B has gradually moved slightly closer to 2B. He doesn't do all at one time but rather gradually as the at bat takes place. When he is in position and the trail runner has a large enough lead, the pickoff is ready.

The pitcher lifts his leg to ostensibly throw the ball home. The trail runner takes his secondary lead. However, the pitcher does an inside move and the 2B takes off in the direction of the 2B bag. The pitcher finds the 2B and throws to him.

If the timing is right and the the lead is large enough, the play should work.

One caveat to this play. You have to be willing to attempt a pickoff of a runner that is behind a very important run. If you're comfortable doing this than it becomes a prudent opportunity for an out. But, if you don't trust your defenders in going for the trail runner and allowing for a potential scoring opportunity, better not go for it.

Maybe it's not the smartest pickoff because of the aforementioned risk. Yet, when I watch this scenario develop, it always appears that something might be available to "steal" an out.

Thursday, May 15, 2008

2 outs man on 2nd. Runner goes.

This situation rarely happens in baseball because there often is much to lose and little to gain. However, under some circumstances it is a prudent decision. The debatable point is whether or not it actually makes sense for the catcher to throw the ball to the 3B to record the out.

Consider where the defense is. The defense is in best range. That means they are playing at a depth that will prevent the ball from getting to the outfield and yet not too deep where you can't throw the batter out at 1B. So, if the runner takes off for 3B (probably without being held too close by one of the middle infielders) there is a good chance that he will have a big jump and the 3B will have to go along way to get to the bag. If the 3B has to go a long way to the bag, he must leave his position early to do so. Is this what we want?

No. We want the 3B playing BEST RANGE. That's why we put him there in the first place.

Despite the fact that it doesn't make the most sense to attempt a steal of 3B. It might actually make less sense to attempt to throw the runner out. Keep all your infielders in best range and don't ask them to cover a stolen base attempt when the ball could be hit in their direction.

It must be communicated to all infielders if this is the defense's intent. It's not enough for the catcher to only eat the ball. Because what's worse than an infielder leaving his position to catch a potential thrown ball is for an infielder to leave his position without even the possibility of catching a thrown ball.

2 outs man on 2nd might be a time for the coach to signal "Best range and hold all throws and hold your ground."

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Pitching backwards

There is a phrase called "pitching backwards." It means pitch opposite of what hitters might expect. In a traditional setting, a pitcher gets ahead with fastballs and gets hitters out with breaking balls. So, the opposite would be to get ahead with breaking balls and get them out with fastballs. This philosophy begins at a very early age when the curveball is only thrown with two strikes. Check out a little league game. Talk about predictable.

So, the idea of pitching backwards evolved to confuse more advanced hitters.

Is pitching backwards sound philosophy? Absolutely if you can get ahead with curveballs. If you can't get ahead with curveballs you become more predictable than ever.

Now, as hitters become more and more skilled, they begin to recognize pitching patterns. Pitching backwards can become a basic strategy to attack many hitters. Therefore, as pitchers climb the baseball ladder they need to mix their approaches on hitters even more so.

Watch a major league baseball game and you'll see many pitchers pitching backwards. Watch even closer and you'll see the pattern get broken. These little nuances make the game all the more interesting.

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

A hitters mistake. Swing if it's a strike.

It sounds logical. Swing the bat if the pitcher throws a strike. Yet, it's one of the most egregious mistakes that young hitters make when they get in the batters box.

If your mindset is "swing if it's a strike" the IF delays the process enough that it makes it impossible to be a good fastball hitter. Many times this mindset manifests itself into foul balls out of play and to the opposite field. The worst case scenarios are swing and misses.

Rather than "swing if it's a strike" the approach should be "swing unless it's a ball."

A mantra that allows hitters to understand the difference with the two approaches is "yes, yes, yes, no" rather than "no, no, no, yes". The first approach assumes the pitch will be a strike while the second approach waits until the ball is released to decide whether or not the pitch is a strike.

Although a hitter must discern whether each pitch is a strike, he must do this under the asumption that it will be a strike and he might be swinging. The alternative simply is too slow of an approach and will limit a players success in getting to a fastball.

It's a common swing flaw that often times goes unaddressed. It's difficult to diagnose if you don't reconize the symptoms. Some of the common symptoms are hitters taking pitches on their heels and the aforementioned foul balls.

Recognizing this common hitters flaw can open up a whole new world for hitters. Pitches that once were impossible to get to are now legitimate options to hit.

Monday, May 12, 2008

The secret to amateur pitching.

Throw a curveball for a strike. It's really that simple. And, if you can do it on the first pitch of the at bat. WOW!

Of all the variables that go into being a successful amateur pitcher, nothing seems to have the effect of throwing a curveball or slider for a strike. It's THE secret weapon. Well, maybe it's not so secret. Here's why.

If you can't throw a curveball for a strike, amateur players and players at any level for that matter simply won't look for it. If they won't look for it hitting a fastball is essentially batting practice. That 80 something fastball gets timed and hit. However, throw something offspeed for a strike and they start looking for it. That 80 something fastball looks like 90 something and that pitcher is successful.

At amateur levels of baseball this concept is accentuated. Professional baseball players have the ability to hit breaking balls. Amateur players really struggle with the ball that moves. Therefore, when they get that curveball for a strike they can't hit it to well anyway. And, when the start looking for that curveball they can't hit the fastball anymore either.

The curveball for a strike. When you've got it- you've got 'em.

Sunday, May 11, 2008

Who gives the intentional walk? Starter or relief pitcher.

There's a base open and the coach makes a decision that an intentional walk is in order. Not only does he feel that a walk is in order but he knows that the on deck batter will face another pitcher.

Who should give the intentional walk? The starter or the relief pitcher? Now, understand, in amateur baseball there are no pitches required to issue the walk. And, I don't believe that the issue is having a pitcher enter the game and throw 4 balls. What I do think is the salient issue is whose runner should that be.

Professional baseball will almost always have the relief pitcher enter the game to issue the walk. The reason? The intentional walk if scored would be the starters run. Therefore, they will always assuage the ego of the starter and have the relief pitcher put the runner on. Starting pitchers need comforted over the course of a marathon season. This is one way that managers comfort their starters. They have relief pitchers issue the intentional walk.

Do I think this is a big deal in amateur baseball? No. But, I think it is a big deal to understand what stats do mean to pitchers. And, if by chance the runner being given the intentional walk is the GO AHEAD run. You should definitely have the relief pitcher issue the walk.

Again, it's not as big a deal in amateur baseball but being astute about important runs can have some consequences to your pitchers opinion of you the coach.

Saturday, May 10, 2008

What "verbals" do we use with cutoffs?

How does a catcher communicate to his 1B and 3B when asking for the ball to be cut? I have heard many different methods used to communicate a catcher's intentions. Here is what I think ought to be used.

If you want the ball cut you must yell "cut". What follows the cut is critcial and the timing of this is also important. "Cut 2, 3, 4" "Cut hold." These are all legitimate manners in which you can communicate to the 1st or 3rd baseman. I have heard "relay" used as a "cut 4" option. I think that is a fine way in which to communicate the idea of simply redirecting the ball to home plate.

The primary difference that I have seen in cutoffs is what do you say if you don't want the ball cut. I have seen some teams not say anything at all. I think this is terrible strategy. I think something needs to be said so there is no miscommunication as to what is expected of the cut man. If nothing is said there is a possibility that someone could yell "cut" when you actually want the ball to go through. It's unethical- but I've seen it done.

If the catcher yells "let it go, let it go" it prevents the possibility of someone else intervening and making a bogus call.

Something to consider when teaching cutoffs.

Friday, May 9, 2008

Running inside the baseline to 1B.

It's one of those classic baseball conundrums. How are you supposed to run on the outside of the baseline on your way to 1B and then touch the base that is in fair territory?

Knowing this "rule" is necessary on bunted balls near the 1B baseline and on strikeouts where outs are to be recorded at 1B. If a runner gets hit in the back on his way to 1B it's customary to argue that the runner was running on the oustide of the line. Of course, at some point in the process the runner must touch the base but it's worth arguing anyway.

Some amateur organizations have now adopted the second base at 1B. The concept is legitimate in it recognizes the flawed logic of running outside the baseline all the way to 1B and then crossing the line at the last second to touch the base. This second base is colored orange and its' basis is for safety of the runner. I don't like the second base because baseball shouldn't have anything orange on its field. But, I understand the logic.

Keep in mind that all runners intuitively know that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line. Those rightanded batters have a difficult time in grasping the concept of getting outside the baseline when a play could be made on them. I'm not sure it's a realistic expectation to ask them to run outside the baseline. But, it's certainly sound coaching to know the rule.

Thursday, May 8, 2008

No doubles defense without a fence. Is it worth it?

Late in the game when teams value the man on 1st or in the batters box, they will often go to a "no doubles" defense. It's a customary late game defense to try and keep a player out of scoring position.

However, when the signal is given, there are some other items that need addressed that aren't so customary. One of which is "Is there a fence?" If the answer is no, you may want to reconsider.

Consider the idea of moving your outfielders deep and into the gaps. You move your corner infielders on the line. If the outfielders are literally deep enough to avoid balls from going over their head, they are really going to be deep. If that's the case, routine singles becom double opportunities as outfielders have to go a much further distance to retrieve the ball.

Moreso than any other variable when it comes to coaching at a field with no fence is the batters ability. In a normal field scenario, you might simply assume that a no doubles defense is prudent thinking. However, if singles could become doubles you have to reevaluate the thinking. A no doubles defense actually may promote doubles with single hitters at a field with no fence.

For the record, all fields should have fences.

Wednesday, May 7, 2008

Catch the ball with ONE HAND!

How many times have you heard the phrase "TWO HANDS!" Why don't people recognize how silly this advice actually is?

You purchase a glove for one hand. You wear it on one hand. You purchased the glove with the intent that it would catch the ball. Why do you want to teach players to use the bare hand to assist in this process?

The bare hand is for throwing the ball. It is not for catching the ball.

Too many times I see young kids who think that two hands is the proper way to catch the ball and they never actually learn to catch the ball with their glove. They're so preoccupied with "cradeling" the ball like it's a football. It's a baseball that is meant to be caught in the pocket of a well designed Rawlings or Wilson or Mizuno.

Get your other darn hand out of the way and learn to use the equipment the way it was designed to be used.

Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Man on 2nd only. Hit and run?

Is it sound strategy to consider a hit and run with a runner on 2nd? Let's analyze it a bit further.

There is one out and a man on 2nd. You're at the bottom of the order. A hit and run?

The premise of the hit and run is to advance a runner into scoring position, stay out of a double play and to open holes in the middle of the infield. Hitting and running with a runner at 2nd accomplishes none of those aforementioned goals. So, why do it?

Actually, it can be done to accomplish a different goal. To score the runner from 2nd base.

The runner starts when he realizes the pitcher is going home. The batter protects the runner by hitting the ball on the ground. As the infielder fields the ball, the runner simply rounds 3B and heads home. Depending on the arm strengths of the infielders would be a determination of whether or not this play would be sound judgement.

It's an unusual baseball concept, but it's one that certainly has some merit.

Monday, May 5, 2008

Pitchout with 2 outs? 2 strikes?

The pitchout is a mechanism designed to help the catcher throw out a would be base stealer. It allows him to gain some ground in the direction of 2nd base and clear himself of potential obstacles of the batter.

Also, 2 outs is a rational time to attempt a steal of 2nd base. The offensive team is attempting to move a runner into scoring position so he can score on a hit.

So, is it a good decision to pitchout with 2 outs? How about 2 strikes and 2 outs?

The offesnsive team has little to risk by sending the runner from 1st base. If he gets thrown out, the likelihood of the batter driving him in wasn't great anyway so go ahead and risk a stolen base.

Is it sound strategy for the defense to predict this steal and pitchout with 2 outs and 2 strikes? I say NO. Despite knowing that a steal is coming why would we risk a thrown ball and a potential steal of the bag rather than retiring the batter and finishing the inning.

I believe a lot of times coaches try and show the other coach that they know the steal is on. Therefore, pitch out and retire the runner, right?

I don't think 2 outs, 2 strikes is prudent baseball at the amateur level. Now, if we're talking professional arms that are accurate and strong. Maybe.

I'd still take my chances on retiring the batter whio is hitting in such a disadvantage situation.

Sunday, May 4, 2008

1st and 3rd fly ball. One tags up- both tag up

When runners are on 1st and 3rd and a fly ball is hit to the outfield, the runner at 3B tags. If the ball is a routine fly ball, the runner at 1st should tag also.

If the outfielder throws to the cutoff man (1B or 3B near the mound) there is no possible way that the ball can be redirected quick enough to record an out at 2B.

This is something that should be practiced and repeated in practice. At amateur levels of baseball, arm strengths are not enough to throw to cutoff men and then to have the ball re-directed quick enough.

It's simple and it's something that teams could and should take advantage of. If the outfielder is going to throw home, the runner at 2B should be at 2B. Even if the team throws to a cut man it shouldn't matter.

Best case scenario, run scores and another runner in scoring position.
Worst case scenario, runner gets thrown out at the plate and runner in scoring postion.
The only manner in which the man on 1st wouldn't get to 2B is if the throw wouldn't go to the cutoff man.

It's a detailed technique of base running but it's something that would give a team an advantage.

Saturday, May 3, 2008

2-2 pitch. "Make it happen"

The 2-2 pitch is one the most important counts to pitch in. It's so important because of what happens if the batter goes to a full count. When the pitcher throws ball 3 from a 2-2 count the hitter gains .030 points(as evidenced by the chart below). That's more than any other count affected by a thrown "ball." The 2-2 hitters perspective is one of a defensive one. Some doubt still exists as to what he should throw. However, the 3-2 count is definitely a hitters count. The pitcher still may throw a pitcher's pitch but there is more of a risk in doing so. Therefore, the hitter is much more aggressive looking fastball.

Furthermore, the 3-2 count offers more than just a marginal change in batting average. It allows runners to be in motion and can take would be double plays out of the equation. Also, when a batter hits the ball into the outfield, there is a good chance the runner in motion could take an extra base. This puts added pressure on the outfielders to throw to the proper position.

Quite simply, 2-2 counts should be the "MAKE IT HAPPEN COUNT." Avoid 3-2 at all costs.

The chart below is a compiled major league chart over one season of the batting averages in different counts.

Count AB H 2B 3B HR TB BB IBB HBP SO AVG SLUG A-SO S-SO
0-2 5090 854 134 20 54 1190 0 0 66 2232 .168 .234 .299 .416
1-2 10683 1879 314 36 121 2628 0 0 90 4249 .176 .246 .292 .408
2-2 10488 2027 346 40 160 2933 0 0 56 3714 .193 .280 .299 .433
3-2 7052 1575 324 41 154 2443 3248 4 16 2001 .223 .346 .312 .484
0-1 6942 2099 334 36 142 2931 0 0 81 0 .302 .422 .302 .422
0-0 10986 3347 555 60 315 4967 0 0 142 0 .305 .452 .305 .452
3-0 192 59 13 1 6 92 1530 593 3 0 .307 .479 .307 .479
1-1 7554 2338 427 45 195 3440 0 0 63 0 .310 .455 .310 .455
1-0 7647 2399 471 42 223 3623 0 0 35 0 .314 .474 .314 .474
3-1 2319 738 137 12 108 1223 2300 29 8 0 .318 .527 .318 .527
2-0 2838 925 207 20 120 1532 0 0 8 0 .326 .540 .326 .540
2-1 5356 1766 334 33 178 2700 0 0 17 0 .330 .504 .330 .504

Friday, May 2, 2008

Better to be "loud and wrong" then "right and quiet"

In baseball, you need conviction! You can't hope your right and quietly go about playing the game. You assume your right and let everyone know.

Here is what I'm specifically talking about.

THE CATCHER.

When the ball is bunted and the catcher has a base to call out, he needs to be assertive and let everyone know where the balll needs to go. He can't hedge and hope the decision he made is the right one. He needs to yell for all to hear and know it is the right call. And if he's wrong? Who cares. His teammates need a decision made and they need it made with conviction. Time is of the essence.

Also, ball hit to the outfield and the cutoff man is in line for the cutoff. Catcher needs to make a decision early. He needs to yell "let it go" "cut 2" "cut hold". Any of these things the catcher can yell but he needs to be loud and assertive. It is absolutely critical that the catcher give his teammates an opportunity to make a play. Too many times the catcher stays quiet and waits too long because he isn't sure if he's exactly right. he doesn't have that luxury.

The catcher needs to be decisive and he needs to make a decision in a loud voice.

And if he can't make a decision with absolute certainty early enough? It's better to be "loud and wrong than right and quiet."

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Changing arm angles as a pitcher.

Is it a good idea for a pitcher to change his arm angle? It shouldn't be discouraged if the pitcher has the ability to throw strikes with the change.

Yet, I know for a fact that professional baseball and many baseball people feel that changing arm angles is taboo. Why? I guess they would prefer that the hitter have an opportunity to see the ball out of the pitcher's hand from the same spot every time.

Let's investigate this a little further. Hitters typically struggle when they face someone that throws from the same arm side as which they hit. Lefties struggle with lefties and righties with righties. I think it's safe to say that the numbers back this up.

So, why wouldn't you entertain the idea of a lefthanded pitcher dropping down occasionally and throwing to a lefty hitter? The same is true with right on right.

Now, it must be noted that changing arm angles or dropping side arm against an opposite handed batter is not necessarily a good idea. Why would you show the batter the ball even earlier? By dropping down you make the ball path take a an angle into the plate that is much easier to see and hit.

Bottom line- don't discourage a change of arm angles. But, understand when to throw it.