How early is too early to bring the infield in?

Simply having a runner on 3B is not enough of a reason to bring the infield in. Obviously, certain parameters must be met. One of those parameters is the inning in which the game is being played.

Obviously, every single manager of the defensive would prefer that the runner on third base not score. But, it's simply not that easy. You can't bring the infield in in an attempt to take away the runner at third base without giving up something. That something is a potential out by the batter.

When the game begins each manager has 21-27 outs to record while scoring more runs than the other team.

Herein lies the debate - attempt to prevent the run from scoring and give up an out opportunity or stay back and concede the run and try for one of those precious outs.

Early in the game many managers will not bring the infield in thinking that they have a lot of at bat opportunities to score some runs of their own. However, the opposing pitcher often times is the major factor in determining how early you bring the infield in. If you believe that your chances of scoring runs is minimal you may choose to bring the infield in as early as the first inning.

Typically,however, the infield in as an option is usually eschewed until the mid to later innings.

But, again, the prevailing issue is whether or not you are willing to trade a potential out at first base(by moving in you concede the ever important range for an infielder) for deterring the runner at 3B from running. Or, even worse, having a play at home plate with no guarantee of recording the out anyway.

Needless to say, infield in early in the game screams of desperation.