What does the shortstop do on a single to left with a runner on second?

The job, step by step

The same on all 2 plays below.

1. FieldContact until the ball is caught

   Get to 3B and set up on the bag. See the runner tag it — a missed bag is an appeal out after the play.

2. RelayThe ball on its way in

   Hold the bag and repeat the catcher’s call. If the runner stops at third, you are the target on “Cut 3”.

3. AssessThe ball back in the infield

   Stay on the bag — the runner who rounds 3B too far is yours once the ball is cut.

Who you work with

• 3BThird baseman is the cutoff man for the throw home
• CCatcher makes the call
• LFLeft fielder throws through the cutoff man to the plate

Common mistakes

• Not watching the runner tag third.

  A missed bag is an appeal out after the play, and the man covering third is the only one in position to see it.

• Leaving the bag to chase the ball.

  Stay on it. The runner who rounds third too far is yours once the ball is cut, and he is only out if you are there.

The plays

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

• Covers thirdRunner on second, single to left field
• Covers thirdRunners on first and second, single to left field

Test yourself

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

1. Runner on second, single to left. Who is the cutoff, and who covers third?

   1. A.The third baseman is the cutoff; the shortstop covers third
   2. B.The shortstop is the cutoff; the third baseman covers third
   3. C.The first baseman is the cutoff; the third baseman covers third
   4. D.The pitcher is the cutoff; the shortstop covers third
   Show the answerHide the answer

   A. The third baseman is the cutoff; the shortstop covers third.

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 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