First-and-third defence

Setup

1. Pitcher, catcher in full gear (helmet with mask, throat guard, chest protector, shin guards), 1B, 2B, SS and 3B.
2. Runners in helmets on first and third. A batter in a helmet stands in the box but does not swing.
3. Agree two calls before each pitch, given by the catcher with a signal: 'Through' (throw to second for the out) and 'Cut' (the 2B cuts the throw and fires home if the runner on third breaks).
4. Check your competition's rules on stealing and the look-back rule before you start.

How it runs

1. The pitcher pitches. The runner on first steals on the release; the runner on third takes a few steps off on the release.
2. The batter steps back out of the catcher's way. The catcher glances at the runner on third, then throws towards second.
3. On 'Cut', the 2B steps in front of second on the line from home and catches the throw. If the runner on third has broken for home, the 2B throws home; otherwise the 2B throws to second or runs the runner back.
4. On 'Through', the SS covers second and tags the stealing runner, then looks at third.
5. Run each call three or four times, then let the runner on third choose when to go.

Coaching points

• Catcher: catch first, then a quick look at third to freeze that runner before throwing.
• Catcher: if the runner on third is too far off, throw to third instead.
• Cut player: stand in a direct line between home and second, about 5–6 metres in front of the base.
• Cut player: call 'Home!' or 'Let it go!' only after reading the runner on third.
• Pitcher: duck or step aside so the throw has a clear path.
• Fielders without the ball stay out of the base paths so nobody is obstructed.

Common mistakes

• Catcher throws through without looking, and the runner on third walks home.
• Cut player too deep, so the throw home is too long.
• The SS standing on top of second in the runner's path instead of beside the base.
• Batter staying in front of the catcher and blocking the throw.
• Runners leaving early, before the pitch is released.