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.