Game Situations
You’re on first base with no outs. The batter hits a ground ball to shortstop. What should you do?
Run hard to second and listen for the coach; slide if needed to avoid a double play.
You’re an infielder. Where should your eyes be before every pitch?
On the pitcher.
Why do we run hard through first base?
To beat the throw or force an error.
Who covers first base on a ground ball to the right side?
The first baseman or pitcher (depending on the play).
Why do teams use signs?
To communicate secretly.
There’s one out, runner on third, and the ball is hit in the air to the outfield. What is the runner’s job?
Tag up and go if the ball is caught.
Ground ball hit to you with a runner on first and no outs. What’s the best play?
Get the lead runner if possible; otherwise, take the sure out at first.
You see the catcher drop the third strike. What should you do?
Run to first base.
Who calls pop flies in the infield?
The shortstop (unless the pitcher or catcher calls it).
What should you do if you miss a sign?
Call time and ask for it again.
You’re batting with two strikes. What should change about your approach?
Protect the plate, shorten your swing, and fight off pitches.
Outfielder catches the ball with runners on base. What should you do immediately after the catch?
Throw the ball in quickly to the correct base.
When should you slide into a base?
When there’s a close play or to avoid a tag.
What is the catcher’s main job on defense?
Control the field, block balls, and throw out runners.
Who gives signs to runners and batters?
The coaches (not coach Framner).
Tie game, last inning, runner on second, no outs. What’s the team goal at the plate?
Move the runner over (hit behind the runner, bunt, or productive out).
There are two outs and a ground ball is hit. What’s the priority?
Get the out at first — no need to rush.
Why is hitting the ball to the right side important with a runner on second?
It moves the runner to third.
Why do outfielders back each other up?
To stop extra bases.
Why should runners look at the coach after every pitch?
In case there’s a steal, bunt, or hit-and-run sign.
Ball is hit to the outfield and the runner on second thinks about going home. Who decides if the runner goes?
The third base coach.
You’re backing up a base. Why is this important?
To stop overthrows and prevent extra bases.
What’s a “productive out”?
An out that helps the team (moving a runner, sac fly, etc.).
Who is usually the leader of the defense and why?
The shortstop or catcher because they see the whole field.
What happens if a runner doesn’t follow a sign?
It can cause outs or mess up the play.