Monday, June 30, 2008

My opinion. Why lefties are low ball hitters and righties high ball hitters.

Many times in baseball it's said that lefties are low ball hitters and righties are high ball hitters. There isn't any scientific research that goes into that statement. It's just empirical observation and for the most part there is some merit to the statement. Now, it isn't always true but it's certainly true enough to discuss.

Here's what I think.

The high pitch and the inside pitch are balls that you adjust to. The swing works from underneath and outside to up and in. In other words, the fastball in is a pitch that you must re-direct your bat path to hit effectively. To do this you elevate your lead elbow and pinch your scapula complex. This allows you to maintain a tight position at contact. It is without a doubt an adjustment. Most hitters would prefer not to do this. They would prefer to keep their arms slightly extended and not cramp their arms to get to the ball.

This adjustment is developed over the years by righthanded hitters as they learn to adjust to pitches. With more righty pitchers than lefty pitchers, right handed batters learn to adjust more. They have to hit the breaking ball away so they must adjust to that fastball in.

The lefthanded hitter mostly sees righthanded pitching. The lefty does not have to face the breaking ball away so much. Over the years a swing can develop that does not have to adjust that much as the flight of the ball is fairly predictable. Since balls aren't breaking away from the lefty he doesn't have to look away and adjust in. Since he isn't adjusting as much he isn't training to hit the up and in pitch.

Since the lefty doesn't train to adjust to pitches breaking away, they develop a slightly longer swing and handle the low pitch better than the high pitch.

One other observation with respect to this topic.

There are many lefty hitters that are righty throwers. Not nearly as many righty hitters that are lefty throwers. The hand dominance can certainly impact the place in which you prefer to hit the ball. The lead arm can drive the low ball without an aggressive, strong top hand. However, the high pitch must have a strong top hand to hit it well. Generally, the handedness of players can determine some of their preferences when it comes to hitting zones.

This is just my humble opinion. I have no idea if it's got any creedence whatsoever.

Sunday, June 29, 2008

Do we pitch to our defense OR do we defend behind our pitcher?

There are 7 defensive players positioned behind the pitcher. There role is obviously to assist the pitcher in recording outs. There needs to be a synchronicity between the pitcher and his defense. Ostensibly, every pitch the pitcher throws should be thrown with the intent of recording an out. If not immediately, eventually. So, the question exists, do amateur defenses align themselves to the pitcher's intentions OR do pitcher's pitch to their defense.

I contend that there isn't nearly enough cohesion between the two units. There aren't enough hours in the day usually to have meetings to discuss goals and plans with each and every hitter. Usually, a pitcher warms up and goes on the mound with his arsenal. He, erroneously, believes that his stuff will get the batters out alone.

However, many times throughout the game, balls will be put into play. And, the defense may or may not be in the proper position.

Here is what I believe is the best case scenario for amateur baseball teams. Understand who is on the mound and try and anticipate the manner in which he throws.

Does he throw hard? Shade opposite field.

Does he throw backwards? Shade pull side.

Does he hit his spots on most occassions? Play the count in the outfield.

Does he struggle with his command? Play straight up and deeper in the outfield.

Simply understanding the pitcher will give the defense and the pitcher that synchronicity that is so needed to prevent the offense from scoring.

Saturday, June 28, 2008

Umpire needs to alert the catcher on a 3 ball steal.

When a runner takes off with 3 balls on the batter, there exits a possibility that the batter could walk. However, the catcher can't anticipate this and must be prepared to throw the runner out. This can be a very difficult proposition for the catcher if the umpire isn't an assertive guy behind the plate.

When the ball is received for ball 4, an assertive umpire will YELL ball 4 so the catcher knows he doesn't have to make the throw.

This is one of those plays where nothing could can come from the catcher throwing the ball. If he throws the runner out he was entitled to the base anyway.

If he throws the ball away, the runner can advance to 3rd. Absolutely a miserable proposition for throwing the ball.

The umpire must alert the catcher early. This is one of those situations where managers could and would go ballistic if the umpire isn't aware of this situation.

Friday, June 27, 2008

What all occurs when the catcher gives the pitcher a sign.

It happens about 100-150 times a game. The catcher signals a pitch to the pitcher.
Many of those pitches occur with a runner at 1B without a runner at 2B. If that's the case, the catcher typically drops just one sign.

I'd like to discuss some of the nuances of what the pitcher ought to do, the catcher and the runner at 1B. It's very interesting.

First, let's discuss the catcher.

The catcher should first always look at the batter to make sure he isn't peaking. He can do this in some very surreptitious ways. You want to make sure his eyes are not looking rearward. The catcher then needs to just take a quick peek at the runner at 1st to check on his eyes. Does he take his eyes off the ball at all? Does he look back at the bag when he gets his lead? Does he actually try and peek in at the catcher's signals? If his eyes get off the pitcher there is a chance to record an out on a pickoff attempt.

The pitcher, in a perfect world, should not alert the runner when he is looking in for the signs. You don't want the runner at 1st to know exactly when the catcher is dropping the signal. The pitcher can avoid this by staying taller in the stretch rather than bending over and taking the sign. Astute base runners could prey on the obvious dropped signal.

The runner at 1st should get his lead in a punctual manner. Getting a delayed lead would prevent the runner from having an opportunity to steal the catcher's signals. His lead is predicated on early signals from the third base coach. When the runner has his lead and the pitcher peers in for the sign, the runner can glance in to the catcher. The runner is attempting to notice what sign has been dropped. If he can recognize off speed, he can run on it.

All of this happens in the span of 2-3 seconds. It's definitely a game within the game and it goes unnoticed more often than not.

Thursday, June 26, 2008

The best way to promote success for a hitter in the lineup.

Many coaches have decisions to make when writing the lineup. A necessary decision must be where do you hit your best hitter. Typically, the best hitter hits in the 3 spot in the lineup. For many reasons this makes the most sense.

One item that coaches then must decide is how do you protect your best hitters. This doesn't necessarily have to be the 3 hitter. This could also apply to the the 4 hitter, the 5 hitter. Really, it's anyone that could be pitched around with runners in scoring position.

Here's the best way to do that.

1) Put speed in front of the hitter. A hitter should always prefer hitting behind speed. Pitchers have more of a tendency to throw fastballs to hitters when speed is on the bases. Also, middle infielders tend to shorten up to the 2nd base bag even more when speed is on base. Fastballs and open holes is a great recipe for a hitters success.

2)Be willing to run that speed in disadvantage counts with 2 outs for the hitter. So many times managers say that they don't like to run in front of big bats. It opens up a base to pitch around the batter. But, this is important to "promote success" for the hitter. When you run with two outs you provide opportunities for the hitter's at bat to start over. I know this involves the runner getting thrown out but the heading is to "promote success," not score runs.

3) Place a big bat behind the batter. This is an obvious one. If there is a good hitter hitting behind you, there is a chance they will throw you hittable pitches in those advantage counts. If there is a marginal stick behind you, breaking balls and slop are still in play for the pitcher.

4) Alternate sides in the lineup. In other words, don't put lefties on top of each other. It's harder to do the same with right handers but it's worth noting anyway. What this does is it makes the opposing manager think twice before matching up a same side matchup(left on left / right on right). If you're a lefthanded hitter and there is a lefty behind you, the other manager might not hesitate to create a difficult lefty, lefty matchup.

An observation- there is no way that Ryan Howard should hit cleanup behind Chase Utley. Howard doesn't hit for a high enough average to effectively protect Utley and since Howard is also a lefty there are way too many tough lefty, lefty matchups down the road for both Utley and Howard.

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Taking a starter out when effective. Different than any other sport.

What other sport does the manager have to make decision to change strategy when the current strategy is effective. It just seems so counter-intuitive to winning baseball.

Taking a pitcher out of the game based upon pitch counts is part of baseball in 2008. It wasn't always this way but it certainly has become a staple of the way the game is played. Bullpens now consist of long men, short men, lefties, set up guys and closers. And, they are all needed because the starter has a limited number of pitches that he can throw.

Somewhere around the 100-120 pitch mark is all they'll allow a starter to throw. And, it doesn't matter if it's a 5-4 game in the seventh and the starter has retired the last 12 consecutive hitters. Out he comes.

Could you imagine a football team drive the length of the field by running it right up the gut for 12 straight plays. But, because they had reached a limit they had to abandon it in favor of the pass.

It's one of those things that makes baseball a great game.

It's also one of those things that makes managers so effective at the professional level. When to go to the bullpen?

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Coming set with ball in bare hand or glove?

It's such a basic idea. Where should the ball be as the pitcher comes set? Should the pitcher hold the ball in his bare hand or the glove?

I believe the ball should be held in the bare hand. If the ball is in the hand, the pitcher has an opportunity to attempt a quick pick if he so chooses.

If the ball is in the glove, he can not pickoff.

Now, having the ball in the glove might give the pitcher the element of surprise in some respects. Many times, amateur pitchers hold the ball in the bare hand and grip the ball prematurely with their pitch selection. They tip their change up, their fastball, their curveball by griping the ball before they come set.

Given all this, I still like the ball in the pitcher's bare hand as he can attempt a pickoff.

Teach the pitcher how to hold the ball and when to change to a pitch and all issues are resolved. However, try asking a pitcher to quick pick with the ball still in his glove. Not happening.

Monday, June 23, 2008

A base running fiasco. Man on 2nd, 2 outs. Who is to blame?

I went to a Phillies Angels game the other night and witnessed an absolute base running debacle. After it was all said and done, I was trying to figure out who was to blame.

A runner was on 2nd with 2 outs. It was a tie game and he was the go ahead run in the seventh inning. The batter hit a clean single to center field. The runner was off on the crack of the bat.

Typically(like 9/10 times), the third base coach waives the runner home on a single with 2 outs. The idea is that 2 out hits are few and far between. Therefore, take the risk and send the runner home. Except this time was different.

The third base coach did not send the runner. But, the batter that hit the ball either did not check the runner or possibly just assumed that he would be sent home, ran to 2B to run into an out.

What actually occurred was the 1B cut the ball because there was no play at home and he threw to the SS for an out on the advancing runner. Quite simple actually. And there was the runner standing on 3B watching all of this occur.

Should the runner have been sent home? Possibly. Probably. But, he wasn't and as long as the third base coach has some discretion there is a chance that he won't be sent home. It is absolutely the responsibility of the batter/runner to check the runner rounding third base before advancing to 2B.

Sunday, June 22, 2008

Cecil Cooper said home run's kill rally's?

Cecil Cooper (manager of the Astros) made the comment following a bunt attempt by Lance Berkman in the bottom of the ninth down four. When asked of the play by the media following the game Cooper said that he had no problem with the play because home runs can be rally killers. Huh?

Of course the media crucified him. Their angle was how can home runs be rally killers when home runs score runs?

Here is what he meant.

When runners are on base, infielders "shorten up." That is the 1B might have to hold the runner on opening up the "4" hole. Middle infielders may have to move nearer to 2B in double play depth. Furthermore, the 3B must always be cognizant of when a bunt attempt might be an option.

That's what Cecil Cooper was referring to.

His comment spoke to the fact that Berkman's bunt attempt kept the infielders shortened up. A home run would clear the bases and give the infielders a chance to back up and improve their range.

Having said all that, Cecil Cooper was protecting his player. I guarantee you that he wanted Berkman to swing away. He just wasn't going to say that in the media.

Saturday, June 21, 2008

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.

Friday, June 20, 2008

Runner at 3B, 1 out and speed in the box.

I think that one of the most mis-understood ideas when it comes to base running is that the person in the batters box should most definitely change what the runner at 3B does.

Here is what I mean.

Let's first concede that typically with 0 outs and at 3B the runner is not very aggressive. If the defense brings the infield in, the offense will relent and ask the runner at 3B to make the ball go through the infield. However, if an out is recorded and the runner stands at 3B with 1 out, what to do?

I contend that if the batter has speed you must send the runner on contact. If the runner at 3B is out by a lot and he gets in a rundown(like he's taught) there is a solid chance that your speed guy will end up in scoring position anyway. Even if he can't get into scoring position, he could potentially steal 2B anyway.

If there are runners at 2nd and 3rd with speed in the box, it's an absolute no brainer. Send the runner on contact and put pressure on the defense. Again, if the out is recorded at home plate you have a 1st and 3rd scenario with speed at 1st.

The other night I was watching the Phillies and the Red Sox. The Phillies had runners on 2nd and 3rd with 1 out and the Red Sox brought the infield in. The Phillies had a one run lead. Eric Bruntlett (middle infielder) hit a slow roller that the 3B fielded. The runner at 3B did not break and it remained 2nd and 3rd with 2 outs. The first thing that crossed my mind was in amateur baseball I would have no doubt sent the runner. Heck, if they record the out at home plate we have a 1st and 3rd with speed at 1st. I wonder how much thought went into the "make it go through" read at 3B. I would hope that the infield in simply didn't deter the Phillies.

Professional baseball is definitely different than amateur baseball with respect to infield skill and arm strength. However, many times amateur baseball takes its cue from pro ball and here is one aspect that needs to be handled much more aggressively.

1 out and speed in the box, send the runner on contact!

Thursday, June 19, 2008

1 major league manager never played professional baseball.

Does that seem odd? That all but one manager of the 32 major league teams never played professional baseball. It should.

Consider the fact that only eight NFL head coaches played NFL football.

I guess I first need to stipulate that I definitely believe that being exposed to high level baseball is a prerequisite to coaching high level baseball. You simply can't be expected to understand many of the nuances to the game without some high level exposure. But, does that necessarily mean that it must come from a former player?

Here's the thing. Professional baseball is most definitely the "good ole boys club." You know, you scratch my back and I'll scratch yours. Job assignments are simply not handed out on credibility. They're handed out on the concept of what "lifer" needs a job and what do we have to offer.

The cycle of pro baseball gets perpetuated like no other. Play the game in the minors, maybe advance to the majors, retire, accept a coaching position in the system, teach the same thing that you were taught. The cycle gets perpetuated.

No outside the box thinking involved.

No fresh and innovative ideas.

No outside influences ever get a crack and interjecting ideas into the cycle.

The NBA and the NFL have different cultures. They don't have a minor league system that they can cultivate talent. I think MLB would probably be the envy of both leagues in this regard. However, the NBA and the NFL also don't have this stale, squalid farm system that often times proves to be a holding ground for perpetuating old ideas.

Understand, that it doesn't mean that every coach that has come from the farm system is a poor coach. That's the farthest thing from the truth. What it does unequivocally mean though is that MLB does not guarantee itself that the best pool is used in selecting a manager.

I would suspect that never in the history of the game has a college coach ascended to the ranks of MLB manager in less than 3 years. There's simply too many people to jump in the stale farm system. There are intelligent baseball people that would be exceptional candidates to manage big league teams. However, if they haven't paid their dues in the good ole boys club- forget about it.

Needless to say- what a joke!

Wednesday, June 18, 2008

Rounding 2nd base.

Taking a turn around 2nd base is a poorly taught concept. So many times I have seen young players come around the bag with a big turn. I suppose this is a result of poor outfield arms in youth baseball. I also suppose it's a result of tempting the outfielders to make an ill-advised throw to a base.

However, 2nd base is not the base too get cute with. You do not round 2nd base and take a big turn like it's 1B.

2B is the base where you coast into the bag after a double or you make your mind up about 15 feet prior to the bag and stretch it into a triple.

Now, hopefully the runner coming around 2B is making up his own mind. Hopefully, he isn't expected or trained to pick up the 3B coach to help him make his decision. Even as early as the 13/14 yr. old level the decision should be the runners. It makes things extremely difficult when the 3B coach has the burden of assisting.

Anyway, runners need to be taught to coast into the bag or make a decision about 15-20 ft. prior to the 2B bag on going to 3B.

Furthermore, when defenses are technically sound, a 1B often times trails the runner coming around 2B. In sure doubles/possible triples this makes a return throw a probability of a the base runner that rounds the bag too much.

The concept of rounding 2B is one of the many misinformed pieces of information that gets disseminated incorrectly by many youth coaches.

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Should you be required to take after a four ball walk?

A batter walks on four consecutive pitches. Should the next batter take the first pitch?

Of course every situation is different but the answer is an emphatic no.

Nothing says a fastball over the plate like a 0-0 count where you're trying to throw a strike. If you've got one of your better hitters up, turn him loose and let him drive the baseball.

The idea of offensive baseball is to score runs. If you can anticipate a first pitch fastball and RBI's could result, the last thing you want to do is miss your pitch.

Be prepared to hit right away. Who cares that he threw 4 straight balls.

Now, if he threw 8 straight balls, that's a little different.

Monday, June 16, 2008

Is it worth having automatic signals?

In professional baseball we had an automatic signal when the count went full in a forced situation. The automatic was we were to run unless he gave us the stop sign. His thinking was he was going to give the sign more often than he wasn't going to give the sign so why not make it an automatic?

Could there be other automatic signs?

It doesn't even necessarily have to be a sign with all team members. It could be individual signs with certain players.

Why have automatics in the first place? Well, it certainly prevents that astute team from stealing potential signs. So, if there is some merit to the process, what could the situations be?

1- How about an inside move in all 3-2 2 out 1st and 2nd situations? Make it an inside move to see if you can catch them running early.

2- How about a pickoff at 3B with a RHP on the mound when a runner gets to 3B with 0 outs.

3- How about a steal of 3B off of a LHP when the base stealer notices a curveball called(this happens a lot more than it should in amateur baseball.)

A coach could certainly add more if needed with respect to individual players and their tendencies. I just think that certain baseball situations should speak to the fact that some things don't need signals. Some baseball plays should simply happen.

Sunday, June 15, 2008

Suicide squeeze pitchout mechanics

The best way to defend the suicide squeeze is by pitching out. You have to guess right and call a pitchout. But, even if you guess right you have to know the proper defensive rotations after the pitchout is called.

The suicide squeeze is executed with a runner at 3B sprinting home when the pitcher commits to throwing home. This commitment begins when the pitcher reaches the point of no return. This occurs very late in the process of delivering the baseball.

When the runner at 3B begins his sprint home, the 3B follows the runner aggressively. He does this in case the ball is popped up and an out can be recorded on a poorly bunted ball. It is doubtful that that the 3B would have a play on a well bunted ball but the 3B's responsibility is to chase the ball.

Now, given the fact that a pitchout is called, you would hope that the ball would not be bunted. But, stranger things have happened and the batter is hoping to contact anything in the batters box. So, the 3B should go.

However, if the pitchout is successful, there needs to be someone at 3B. That's the role of the shortstop.

Proper pitchout mechanics of the suicide squeeze require the shortstop to rotate over to cover the 3B bag when the 3B leaves on suicide squeeze attempts.

How will the shortstop know that the squeeze is on and the pitchout is in fact given? Well, hopefully, he can see the catcher's signals that ask for a pitchout and then see when the batter squares to squeeze. Otherwise, it would be difficult for the shortstop to react to the pitchout and the squeeze without anticipating it.

Saturday, June 14, 2008

The stop watch. What baseball measures

Go to a baseball game and you're likely to see a coach somewhere with a watch sticking out of his pocket. What do they have it for? Is it more than just aesthetic appeal?

Here are the things that baseball typically measures.

1) Is the pitcher 1.3 to the plate or slower out of the stretch? If so, we can possibly run on him.

2) Is the catcher 2.0 to second base? This one is harder to get because catcher's don't always show off their best time during warmups.

3) What's the hitter's time to 1B on a ground ball? A time of 4.1 would be considered very elite. 4.1 is an excellent time to 1B in professional baseball. Typically, an "A" runner would probably settle in at 4.3 in high school baseball.

4) The stop watch can also measure a players time to steal 2B out of his break from 1st. It would go to reason that if a pitcher is 1.3 and a catcher is 2.0, the runner would need to be 3.3 or better to make the math work.

5) The stop watch is also a very good tool to assist infielders in turning double plays. You can't always have runner running down the line to simulate turning two. But, if you give infielders a stopwatch time to shoot for it certainly allows them to work on proper speed and timing.

I don't carry a stopwatch as a coach. I think my eye is pretty sound at detecting slow vs. fast. And, since I can't exactly predict the jump that my runner would get it makes the process a little unpredictable.

Friday, June 13, 2008

The "back elbow up" advice

Let's first begin with the saying "the more you know, the less sure you are."

For many, many fans out there it seems "get your back elbow up" is the only piece of advice worth giving to young hitters. I'm not really sure why they say it or what it attempts to accomplish. It looks awkward and uncomfortable when the kids do it.

Ostensibly, I believe the back elbow up idea is to create a flatter bat path but boy does it create the exact opposite effect.

However, is it bad advice?

Many elite high level hitters do in fact hit with their back elbow up. Shouldn't we ask of our amateur players what our professionals do?

The back elbow up is a power mechanism that high level hitters use to create leverage into their swing from rotating correctly and staying connected correctly. If you don't stay connected(have the arms rotate in conjunction with the torso) then the back elbow up is usually the death knell to a hitter.

But, to dismiss the elbow up as bad advice isn't correct either. You simply need to know when it works.

It's better leaving the hitting tweaks up to professionals.

Thursday, June 12, 2008

A lineup thought. Put speed behind power?

Every manager has a decision to make when they write the lineup out. Where should certain hitters hit in the lineup? I contend that putting fleet footed players behind those high power, high strikeout guys makes a considerable amount of sense.

Let's investigate.

High power guys tend to be high strikeout guys. The reason? The bat path that creates high flight balls also tends to miss more balls than one that has a slightly smaller degree of incline to it. So, guys that hit the ball out of the park more also strikeout more. Historically, the numbers bear this out.

If a player has a proclivity to hit home runs and or strike out, that implies there is a better than average chance the next hitter will hit with the bases empty(either a home run that clears the bases or leading off the next inning after a strikeout.)

If that is true, you want the leadoff hitter of an inning to be a potential high stress guy on the bases. You would like all leadoff hitters to put pressure on the defense by putting the ball in play and subsequently to provide a steal threat.

It seems that when speed hits behind power that it gives the lineup maker the best opportunity to constantly stress the defense.

Keep an eye on lineups and how often power hitters strike out to end innings. Furthermore, how often speed leads off the next inning.

Given the fact that most teams begin games with speed, I would contend that every manager would rather have speed leading off and power hitting with men on base. One logical way to do this is to have speed hitting behind power.

Wednesday, June 11, 2008

3-2 count. Move out of double play depth?

It's something that should probably be considered more often than it is. When the count runs full and you suspect that the runner at 1st could be in motion, do you move your infielders out of double play depth to improve their range?

Certainly, if there are two outs and the runner at 1st is guaranteed to be in motion you will unequivocally move the infielders out of double play depth.

But, what if there is 1 out? 0 outs? Should you consider that as well?

I suppose it's a decision very much like many other decisions in the game of baseball. Pitchout and risk a ball? Play no doubles and risk a single? Hit and run and risk a double play?

Yet, I think that coaches simply get caught up in at bats and don't think pitch to pitch. With a 3-2 count there is a very good opportunity to start the runner. Coaches should consider moving their infielders out of double play depth and giving them an opportunity to field the ball.

What if the batter swings and misses? You wouldn't have an opportunity for a strike 'em out throw 'em out double play. Agreed. So, the idea isn't necessarily if you think the runner is going that you should move the infielders out of position. More likely, if you suspect that the runner is going and a strikeout is unlikely.

I'll continue to look for the 3-2 count move the infielders out of double play depth.

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

A lefthander's pickoff move at 3B.

You seldom see it- a lefthander jump turning and firing to 3B. Should the play be a bigger part of baseball? If no one ever uses it, I suppose that it would certainly catch an unsuspecting runner off guard.

Why isn't it used much?

First, I think that the play isn't used much because the risk of throwing to 3B with a jump turn and a 3B running to the bag. In ther words, all of these variables coming together makes it very challenging. A runner leads off the bag. The 3B is 10 ft. away. The pitcher comes set. The 3B would have to break initially and the pitcher would have to spin and fire when he sees the 3B break. After all of this has been coordinated, the pitcher needs to turn and find the third base bag and hit the bag. The thrid baseman needs to catch the ball and apply the tag.

All of this is coordinated with a runner 90 ft. away from home plate.

Is it worth it? Apparently, coaches believe that it isn't. I never see it.

Yet, with a runner on 3B and nobody out it certainly may be worth the risk. You have to practice the play but I suppose if you have confidence in your lefthanded pitcher to throw to the bag, go for it.

One other comment. The play becomes extremely effective if the runner at 3B gets very comfortable very early. Sometimes you'll see the runner try and incite a balk by running down the line. I would think that the aggressive runner would be something that you would look for in attempting the pickoff play.

Monday, June 9, 2008

Can you call the wheel play in a non-forced situation?

The wheel play is designed to be used in a forced situation. In other words, it's to be called when the runner at 2nd must run. This allows the shortstop to simply receive the ball with his foot on the bag rather than applying the tag.

The question. Can you run the wheel play when the runner at 2nd is not forced?

Of course you CAN. But, does it have merit.

Consider that the no one would be behind the runner at 2nd anchoring him to the bag. He doesn't have to run and even if he did begin to run he could retreat to the bag without penalty. So, if the play was run you would have to consider the possibility of opening up the middle of the field without an option at 3B.

But, in this scenario, the wheel play may be more of a deterrent to advance to 3B rather than a play to get the out at 3B.

If the runner at 3B is that important and you know that the other team wants to advance him to 3B, I think the following would be worth considering.

Move your 3B in and rotate your shortstop over about 20 feet from 3B so he's got a considerable head start. Keep your 2B near the runner at 2B to hold him close. Have the 1B cheat in to begin with also. Now, you have planted a seed to the offense that we're just not going to let you advance the runner at your will. We might not record the out at 3B but it's going to be difficult for you to advance the runner to 3B.

It's basically a paradigm shift with this play that makes it a palatable option. Rather than thinking out at 3B, use it simply to dissuade the runner from moving to 3B.

Sunday, June 8, 2008

How to signal 1st and 3rd defenses and bunt defenses.

Many times you'll see a catcher or a 3B make himself obvious to his teammates and signal a defense for the rest of the players to see. What and why is he doing this?

Well, there are multiple options that teams could have in this situation. The catcher or 3B is communicating to the team as to what play is on.

I can say very adamantly, I don't like this method. Here's why.

When a play is communicated it is communicated until another sign is given. In other words, "it's on until something else takes it off."

The very basic reason that I don't like this method is it's extremely difficult and time consuming to change pitch to pitch. Every pitch has a different count associated with it. Every count should be treated differently.

Furthermore, if an offense coach fakes something and you don't change your defense the offense has been clued in to your intentions.

My preferred method is a verbal system that all infielders can hear and can be changed on the fly. Don't like the current defense? Change it immediately.

As long as there aren't too many fans in the stands creating a deafening sound, the verbal method seems to be the better option.

Saturday, June 7, 2008

Middle infielder tandem cut in 1st and 3rd

1st and 3rd situations have long been the bane of many defenses. What defense do you call when a runner takes off? What defense do you want if the offense attempts to steal a run?

Many professional teams employ a defense that asks the middle infielders to "read" the intentions of the lead runner. The catcher is supposed to come up and check the lead runner(I've discussed this concept in a previous blog) and then fire to the 2nd base bag. One infielder is to cover the bag while the other is to cut in front of the bag and see whether or not the runner is breaking to the plate. If the runner breaks he is to cut the ball and fire home for the out.

Are you serious?

For so many reasons, this is absurd.

First of all, doesn't the batter have an opportunity to actually hit the ball? Why would anyone ask two middle infielders to leave their position when the batter could actually hit a thrown ball?

Secondly, can you really ask a middle infielder to "read" something while he is in the act of running and catching? I contend that this is way too difficult to do. And, even if someone believes that they can pull this off reading anything makes the play subjective. If an offense knows that a certain defense uses this play, a fake break at 3B could be the preferred play of choice. This would entice the defense to make a cut while the runner at 3B would retreat to the bag.

Just way too much going on here.

Friday, June 6, 2008

Bases loaded. 3-1 count on the batter.

Start the runners and have your batter show bunt early to sacrifice?

It would certainly turn some heads. Why would you ask the batter to do this? The bases are loaded and what does it accomplish?

Well, in a sport that prides itself on the million of subtle nuances here's another. With 3 balls on the batter, the pitcher must throw a strike or a runner will score. If all runners start as if it were a 3-2 count, the batter would be expected to protect the runners. Ostensibly it becomes a suicide squeeze.

Now, in a traditional suicide squeeze, the runner doesn't take off early. In this scenario, it doesn't matter if they take off early. The pitcher is required to throw a strike. When the runners take off and the batter squares he's simply thinking bunt the ball if it's anywhere near the zone. The pitcher must throw a strike and I'll simply bunt it anywhere.

Now, would I ever do this? No.

But, it is something that could be done and something I've heard discussed one time and thought it was curious enough to give it some time.

I wonder if I'll ever see it in a game.

Thursday, June 5, 2008

Why double play depth is important.

When a runner gets on 1B, it is critical that infielders get into double play depth if they do in fact CARE about the runner at 1st. There may very well be times that they don't care about the runner. But, in general, they need to move to double play depth if they value that runner.

Here's why.

The obvious reason is if the ball is hit on the ground, the middle infielders need to be near the bag. The ball will first be thrown to one of the middle infielders so a closer position to the bag is essential.

Also, if the runner takes off to steal 2nd, the middle infielder that is covering the bag should move "in then over." If he's in double play depth he won't have to start running to the bag too early. He can hold his ground and not give up his position too quickly as long as he's in double play depth.

Double play depth is also important in case the runner steals and the catcher receives the ball. If the middle infielders would not be "shortened" up they would more than likely be on the run when the ball arrives at 2B. Double play depth allows the middle to be closer to the bag and therefore awaiting the ball as it arrives at 2B. In addition to the straight steal, the delayed steal becomes an option when middle infielders move away from second base.

It would be nice if the middle infielders would not have to give up their range when playing the position. However, that man on 1st base dictates otherwise. Now, if you're lightning fast and can get to places that others can't, then you can create more depth with your positioning.

Wednesday, June 4, 2008

Middle infielders. One in, one back.

Typically, when the middle infielders come in they come in as a unit. Their sole purpose is to cut the run down at the plate. But, is their a time when one should come in while the other one stays back. You don't see it much but I think there absolutely is a time and a place for it.

The idea of moving one middle infielder in while keeping the other infielder back places a supreme understanding on the type of pitcher that is on the mound. Knowing the type of pitch that is being thrown can help to determine where you would like your middle infielders.

Let's first understand that there are two distinct types of ground balls.

1)There is the hard hit ground ball where the bat simply makes contact above the center line of the ball. Contact was made in a tight position at contact and the ball is hit very hard.

2) There is a rollover ground ball. This is the ground ball where the arms get a little extended at contact and the barrel rolls over the top of the ball and dribbles one in the infield. The point of emphasis here is rollover ground balls are always pulled on the ground.

When the infield comes in, the second type of ground ball is certainly the preferred ground ball. In fact, the pitcher should be attempting to induce such a ground ball.

So, here's the moral of the story. If the pitcher is a rollover candidate, move your pull side middle infielder in and keep your opposite middle infielder back. This allows the hard hit ground ball to fielded and an out recorded. It also allows the rollover ground ball to be fielded by an "in position" infielder. This might prevent a run from scoring.

Does moving these infielders in this way seem like "having your cake and eating it too." In other words, is this defense attempting to record an out and also take away the play at the plate. YES.

Is it unconventional? YES.

Does it have merit based upon the understanding of your pitcher and the types of ground balls that are hit? YES.

Besides, it makes for a difficult read for the runner at 3B.

One in and one back is being considered more and more in professional baseball. Is it always the most preferred defense? Not necessarily. But, it needs to at least be considered.

Tuesday, June 3, 2008

A baseball basic. How to give signals to the pitcher.

The catcher holds one of the sacred keys to baseball success. He calls the pitches that the pitcher throws. When he drops the pitch, it is absolutely critical that those signals are not exposed. There are many ways in which they could be exposed. Here are some insidious things that a catcher can do to undermine his cause.

When the catcher drops his signs he must make sure that both legs are relatively closed so neither base coach can see the signs.

The catcher must also make sure that his glove hand is hiding the view from the 3rd base coaches box.

The catcher must also not move too quickly after giving the sign. There are some subtle movements that a catcher can make that can tip his hand. The catcher wants to move as late as possible following the sign given.

In a state tournament playoff baseball game, this basic tenet of baseball was broken. The unsuspecting pitcher probably deserved a better fate. But, the catcher simply didn't recognize one of baseball's basic expectations.

Monday, June 2, 2008

How to take a pitch.

You don't always swing the bat when you get in the batters box. Many times, the pitcher throws a ball and the pitch is taken. Can anything be learned from how a batter takes a pitch? Absolutely.

Assuming that the batter wasn't fooled, a batter conveys all kinds of information by the manner in which a pitch is taken.

What's the main thing to look for? The most important thing is the balance of the players body as the pitch enters the hitting zone. Hitters that collapse their front leg tend to commit their weight too hard too quick. These players are cheating to the pitch and are very vulnerable to off speed pitches.

Also, when you watch a player take a pitch, watch their hands. The hands of a player should not leak forward when taking a pitch. The hands "leaking" forward is an indication that a player doesn't load his hands and then fire them to the ball. Rather, that player feels for the ball and attempts to make contact.

We don't want players just to make contact. We want players to get in the batters box and drive the ball. To do this, they need to have an understanding of just how the swing is initiated and exactly how a pitch should be taken.

As the elite hitter strides forward the barrel of the bat needs a "jump start". This means that the barrel should lean forward prior to accelerating back in the direction of the catcher. The posture of the batter should be neutral and balanced as the hitter drives into position.

You could literally go to a game and watch a player walk every at bat on four pitches and have an idea if he can swing it or not. How? By the way he takes a pitch.

Being a good hitter begins well before contact is ever made.

Sunday, June 1, 2008

Don't lose your starting position becasue of injury?

I'm sure you've heard this saying. A player should not be punished for being injured. Are you serious?

Imagine player A pulls a hamstring and needs a week to rest his injured leg. He's a good solid player. He's hitting .315 and is willing to play small ball if need be.

His replacement, player B, enters the starting lineup and proceeds to hit .500 with 3 home runs in the course of a three game stretch. Obviously, people are wondering where this guy came from and why he wasn't in the starting lineup before.

The obvious concern for player A is what happens when he returns? Should he regain his starting job? Obviously not. Yet, the euphemism exists. Player A should not lose his starting job due to an injury.

Next time you hear this comment simply think to yourself how ludicrous that proposition is. Tune in ESPN and I bet you'll hear it mentioned by one of their talking heads.