Baseball Strategy:Stealing Third Base
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[edit] Rules and Exceptions
Rule 1:
The strategy of stealing third base is one which is both underrated and underused. There is no distinct advantage to there being a left or right handed pitcher as both have to make the exact time consuming pivot.
The runner begins by taking his lead by taking one or two steps towards the pitcher. This gives the pitcher the impression the runner is closer to the bag than he actually is. From here, the runner will continue taking his lead, focusing on his target which is the back outside corner of the third base bag. The third base coach will watch for the shortstop coming over to cover, the runner is responsible for watching the second baseman.
Once the pitcher has established himself, the runner should focus his attention on the pitcher's back leg, as he must lift his foot from the rubber in order to turn and throw. If the pitcher's front leg breaks first, then he is going home and the runner can focus on the catcher to decipher the type and location of the pitch as he breaks toward third.
A good third baseman will attempt to slide his back leg in front of the bag at the same time as catching the throw and "swipe" tagging the runner. Ideally the runner will look to contact the bag on the outside, leftfield corner with a feet first slide.
- Exceptions:
It is not recommended to have a fast baserunner one second to steal third with two outs, as a single will likely score the runner. However, with less than two outs, a steal of third could allow a sacrifice fly to score the run. Rule 2:
- Exceptions:
