Chapter 21. The Hit-and-Run Baseball Play; Steal and Bunt-and-Run

Objective

The hit-and-run baseball play is one of the best offensive plays in baseball. The team t bat employs the hit-and-run baseball play to move the defense from its normal position and-if a base hit results-to give the base runner or runners an opportunity to take an extra base.

How it is Executed

The runner or runners break for the next base as they would to steal. The batter swings at the pitch, good or bad. If the pitch is far outside, he throws the bat at it to protect the runner from the catcher's throw. The batter tries to hit the ball on the ground to the unprotected part of the infield.

When it is Executed

The hit-and-run baseball play is normally called when two are out, the score tied or the team at bat ahead, and the pitcher behind on the ball and strike count. (The play can also be used with less than two out if the team at bat is well ahead). The best count is 2 balls and 1 strike. With the count 3 balls and 1 strike, the manager can sign for the steal. Thus, if the ball is over the plate, the batter will be swinging and the hit and run baseball play will work just as though the hit-and-run sign were given. If the pitch is not a strike, the batter walks and the base runner or runners advance anyway.

THE STEAL BASEBALL PLAY

Objective

To advance a runner or runners without the aid of the batter.

When it is Executed

As a general rule, the steal baseball play can be used:

By the Visiting team if it is leading, or the score is tied;

By the Home team if it is leading, or trailing by no more than one run;

When the runner, or runners are very fast and/or the pitcher, or catcher shows some weakness in playing their respective positions;

After one, or two outs have been made.

When the pitcher makes his first delivery, or is behind on the ball and strike count.

When any but the weakest hitter is at the plate.

BUNT AND RUN

Objective

This baseball play is used to advance a base runner and put another run on the bases.

How it is Executed

The runner, or runners, break with the pitch. The batter bunts for the base hit.

When it is Executed

The bunt and run baseball play is used with one out, runner on 1st, or runners on 1st and 3rd and the infield back. The team at bat should be ahead. If the team at bat has a good lead, the play can be used during any inning. If the lead is slim, it should be used only in the early or middle innings. The bunt should be made toward 1st or 3rd.

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