The job, step by step
The job is the same idea on each play. The first one is shown in full; after it, only the steps that change.
Runner on second, single to center field · Runner on second, single to right field
- FieldContact until the ball is caught
Get to 2B and straddle the bag.
- RelayThe ball on its way in
Cover 2B and repeat the catcher’s call. If a runner rounds second too far, yell “Backdoor!” — the cutoff man relays it to you on “Cut 2”.
- AssessThe ball back in the infield
Stay on the bag until the ball is dead.
Runners on first and second, single to center field · Runners on first and second, single to right field: what changes
- FieldContact until the ball is caught
Get to 2B and straddle the bag — the runner from first is coming.
- RelayThe ball on its way in
Cover 2B and repeat the catcher’s call. If he rounds second too far, yell “Backdoor!” — the cutoff man relays it to you on “Cut 2”.
- AssessThe ball back in the infield
Tag him if the throw comes. Then stay on the bag until the ball is dead.
Who you work with
- First baseman is the cutoff man
- Catcher makes the call
- Third baseman stays on his bag
Common mistakes
- Drifting toward the throw.
The throw is going home. Your job is the bag behind it, for the runner who rounds second thinking nobody is there.
- Not repeating the call.
Every man at a base repeats the catcher’s call. The cutoff man may only hear it once, and it may be yours he hears.
The plays
Each one opens the full play: every position's job, the coaching points and the animation.
- Covers secondRunner on second, single to center field
- Covers secondRunner on second, single to right field
- Covers secondRunners on first and second, single to center field
- Covers secondRunners on first and second, single to right field
Test yourself
Questions from the app's Learn sessions. Pick your answer, then check it.
Runner on second, single to center or right. Who is the cutoff?
- A.The third baseman
- B.The first baseman
- C.The second baseman
- D.The shortstop
Show the answerHide the answer
B. The first baseman. The first baseman. The third baseman stays on his bag, the second baseman covers first, the shortstop covers second.
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?
- Cutoff man to thirdWhat does the shortstop do on a single with a runner on first?
- 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?
- 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?