First to Third
The Ball Gets Through The Infield
With less than 2 out and the ball is hit into the outfield, your job is to get to 3rd base. If the ball is hit to right field, this should not be difficult unless it"s a hard hit line drive right to the fielder. Take a quick look at your 3rd base coach as you near the 2nd base bag to see what he wants you to do. Run as if you expect to get called over.
Ball Hit To Center Or Left Field
If the ball is hit from center to left field, you will have the play in front of you and it will be up to you to determine if you are going to attempt to make it to third or not. Remember, by making it to second, you are in scoring position. Do not take chances going to third if an average to good throw will get you out.
If you determine that you are going to try and make it, make sure you focus on hitting the inside part of the bag as you turn the corner. Once you have made it past second look up and pick up your third base coach. The third base coach will let you know whether to slide or go in standing. If in doubt, slide.
Ball Hit To Right Or Right Center Field
If the ball is hit from right center to right then you must rely on the third base coach to let you know whether to stay at second or go for third. If you get no sign before getting to second, you must use your determination from the picking up the ball. If it looks like it was hit hard and directly to the right fielder, you will want to go straight in to second base and pick up the right fielder or third base coach as you do so. If the ball was hit down the line or in the gap and you are anticipating trying for third, take an aggressive turn.
You must pick up the third base coach immediately after touching second. He will be able to let you know whether to continue on or to stay at the bag. The big difference between scenarios is in the first, you plan on staying at second unless the coach lets you know otherwise; in the second scenario, you plan on going to third unless the coach signals you to stop.
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