What does the shortstop do on a single with a runner on first?

The job, step by step

The same on all 3 plays below.

1. FieldContact until the ball is caught

   Get on a straight line between the outfielder and 3B. Hands up, call for the ball — the third baseman is lining you up.

2. RelayThe ball on its way in

   The third baseman makes the call. “Through” — fake the cut and arm-fake to 2B to freeze the batter-runner at first. “Cut hold” — catch it and look in. “Cut 3” — relay it to third. “Cut 2” — turn and throw behind the runner at second.

3. AssessThe ball back in the infield

   Ball in hand: check 3B, then 2B. Throw only to make an out; otherwise get the ball to the pitcher.

Who you work with

• 3BThird baseman lines you up and makes the call
• 2BSecond baseman is on the bag at second for the backdoor
• PPitcher backs up third

Common mistakes

• Lining up with second base instead of third.

  With a runner on first, the play is the runner going first to third. A cutoff man lined up with second is in the wrong lane for the only throw that matters.

• Not faking on “Through.”

  When you let it go, fake the catch and arm-fake toward second. It freezes the batter-runner at first, and he is the one most likely to take an extra base on the throw.

The plays

Each one opens the full play: every position's job, the coaching points and the animation.

• Cutoff manRunner on first, single to center field
• Cutoff manRunner on first, single to left field
• Cutoff manRunner on first, single to right field

Test yourself

Questions from the app's Learn sessions. Pick your answer, then check it.

1. Runner on first, single to any field. Where does the throw go, and through whom?

   1. A.To third, through the shortstop
   2. B.To second, through the second baseman
   3. C.To third, through the second baseman
   4. D.Home, through the first baseman
   Show the answerHide the answer

   A. To third, through the shortstop.

More shortstop jobs

• Cutoff man to secondWhat does the shortstop do on a single to left or center with nobody on?
• Covers second and makes the callWhat does the shortstop do on a single to right field with nobody on?
• Relay manWhat does the shortstop do on a double to the left side?
• Trailer behind the relayWhat does the shortstop do on a double to the right side?
• Covers thirdWhat does the shortstop do on a single to left with a runner on second?
• Covers secondWhat does the shortstop do on a single to center or right with a runner on second?
• Takes the force at secondWhat does the shortstop do on a bunt with a runner on first?
• Rotates to thirdWhat does the shortstop do on the wheel play?

The shortstop on every play · All positions