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BASEBALL

* \ • • •

A STRAIGHT OVERHAND DELIVERY.

Illustrating the proper position for getting the full power of the back and arm.

-BASEBALL

INDIVIDUAL PLAY AND TEAM PLAY
IN DETAIL

BY
W. J. CLARKE

HEAD COACH OF THE PRINCETON UNIVERSITY BASEBALL TEAM

AND

FREDRICK T. DAWSON

GENERAL ATHLETIC COACH, UNION COLLEGE

WITH ILLUSTRATIONS
AND DIAGRAMS

NEW YORK

CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS

1915

Published April, 1915

^"^'^ ./ /

INTRODUCTION

The present position of the game of baseball in
the United States, the enthusiasm with which it is
played, and the interest with which it is watched
by the American people have made it very evi-
dent that it would be valuable both to players and
spectators to have easily available a book formu-
lating what has been found to be the best way of
playing the game. Although it is a sport which
is most widely followed, yet comparatively few
players, and fewer spectators, really understand
it thoroughly. The reason for this will be appar-
ent when one realizes that the leaders of the
game, with a knowledge gained through years of
experience and careful study, have, for the most
part, reserved this knowledge for those imme-
diately under their control, while the average
player and spectator must be content to play and
watch the game as best he can.

A brief review of the development of the game
will help to bring out the facts that have to do
with the writing of this book.

Baseball originated here in America in the sim-
ple pastime of tossing, hitting, and catching a

vi . INTRODUCTION

ball. At first two, then three, boys played the
game. Gradually the number of players was in-
creased; an infield and an outfield were formed;
play became more complicated; and rules were
drawn up. When the game had assumed definite
form, its popularity spread throughout the coun-
try; for here was a sport which was good fun —
it including throwing, batting, running, and catch-
ing under the most exciting of conditions; and
eighteen men could take part in it at one time.
Year after year the game was played with in-
creasing interest — boys were playing it in their
early teens, and continued to do so in manhood.
In the meantime, after years of pure fun, men
began to specialize in the game. They studied it,
for they realized that, in addition to purely nat-
ural physical skill, other things were necessary;
and these were to be acquired only through ob-
servation and practice. Pitchers, instead of being
contented to throw a straight ball, began to
curve it. Combination play — team-work — was
developed. Men took advantage of knowledge
gained through experience and began to diagnose
plays ahead of time.

Certain principles were deduced, laws were dis-
covered, and years of experience produced a class
of experts — men who were skilful in physical
execution and keen in mental activity — skilful

INTRODUCTION vii

in handling the ball, in running the bases, and in
batting; keen in observing and putting into effect
the laws of probability.

And from among these experts leaders were
selected to manage the various clubs which were
soon formed. It became the duty of these man-
agers to determine the style of play to be followed
by their respective teams and to teach the re-
cruits the fine points of professional baseball.
These fine points, subsequently known as "in-
"si3e baseball," acquired by the managers only
after years of experience, were imparted to the
chosen few; that is, to the members of the clubs.
Amateur players and the general public were left
to pick up baseball knowledge as they could — all
the while considering the "inside baseball" of
professionalism as something sacred and un-
knowable. As a result, we have baseball played
in two ways: one in which the players have not
had the opportunity of learning the best methods
of play; and the other, in which the players are
all schooled by experienced masters of the game.
One class of players is carried away by the thrill
of bodily action and the excitement of contest,
faiUng to bring their minds properly into the play.
The other class of players, through experience
and careful instruction, are made to bring all
their faculties into play at all stages of the game.

viii INTRODUCTION

In the present work, the authors, after careful
study based on personal experience, inquiry, and
comparison, have formulated for the geiieral pub-
lic, including the amateur and professional player,
the whole subject of baseball as it is played in the
most advanced circles, namely, in the major
leagues.

In addition, chapters are included which should
be of interest and value to spectators of the game
and to college ball-players.

W. J. c.
F. T. D.

CONTENTS

CHAPTER PACK

^ I. The Catcher i

^ II. The Pitcher 20

^III. The First-Baseman S3

u IV. The Second-Baseman 63

i- V. The Short-Stop 80

u VI. The Third-Baseman 91

^ VII. The Outfielder 102

^ VIII. Batting 112

IX. Base-Running 125

X. Team Plays 146

XI. Hints to College Players .... 179

XII. Hints to Spectators 186

Diagrams i97

ILLUSTRATIONS

A Straight overhand delivery Frontispiece

FACING PAGE

The catcher receiving a low-thrown ball from the pitcher 2
The pitcher delivering an underhand fast ball . . 30
The out-curve

The drop-curve

The out-drop
The knuckle-ball
The fast ball

The slow ball 36

First-baseman*s footwork 54

Correct way of fielding a low-thrown ball (pick-up)

at first ^6

Position of batter in preparing for close ball . , . 114

Completion of a correct swing in hitting .... 118

The fall-away slide 130

THE CATCHER
Receiving the Ball

A catcher first of all should be a clean receiver;
that is, he should be able to catch and hold any
kind of a ball the pitcher may throw. Since it is
the catcher who signals to the pitcher for the par-
ticular kind of ball to be thrown, the catcher can
always be ready to handle the ball cleanly. He
should take his position behind the home-plate and
as close to it as possible (just out of reach of the
batter's club), with both feet squarely on the
ground. (For battery signals see Team Plays 29.)
The left foot should be slightly ahead of the right,
as this position will shorten the step necessary for
the catcher as he throws. Many catchers make
the mistake of becoming rigid, and, with tightened
muscles, fighting the ball, as it were. This atti-
tude is decidedly the wrong one. The catcher
should be the most alert man on the team, for
he is allowed the least amount of time to change
his position in receiving the ball; hence he should
be free in every muscle.

2/. w,.; .•;......! '.'BASEBALL

While receiving tlie low ball, the catcher should
not squat, with the hands in an upright position;
he should rather drop the hands (fingers down-
ward). (See illustration.) But after catching a
low ball he should not continue the downward
course of the ball with the glove; the better way
is to bring it up gracefully and easily. This up-
ward motion will sometimes cause the ball to be
called a strike, while if the hands went down it
would be a ball.

While giving signals and studying base-runners,
the catcher should sit on his haunches; and when
catching behind small batters, he should stay in
the squatting position. This gives the pitcher
a better mark at which to throw. If the ball
approaches or touches the ground, it should be
met with the broadside of the glove, naturally,
since this presents the greatest surface; and low,
ground balls should be smothered when it is not
possible to play them cleanly. The catcher, in
order to make certain of blocking ground balls,
should, if possible, get his whole body in front of
the ball — presenting the solid front of feet, legs,
glove, arms, and breast protector. A catcher
should practise this play deliberately; should have
a player throw balls into the dirt, that he may
become accustomed to handling low ground balls
from the pitcher.

THE CATCHER 3

It should be a firmly ingrained habit with the
catcher never to drop the hall, neither in the most
informal pr?ctice, nor in a game. Carelessness
in practice brings about uncertainty of control
in games.

Catchers, hold the ball ! and when catching and
throwing the ball, keep the head up, and eyes
ahead, avoid looking down at the ground while
swinging the arm back prior to throwing. That
quick glance at the ground before taking the
step to throw was probably necessary when our
grandfathers played in pastures where the footing
was uncertain; but to-day we are reasonably
certain of having firm, level ground beneath our
feet; therefore, the eyes may be used entirely in
following the play. With catchers and basemen
the positions of the bases ought to be so firmly
fixed in their minds' eye that conscious searching
for them is unnecessary.

Throwing

In order to be of full value to a team, the catcher
must be able to throw accurately with speed, and
without delay. Instantaneous delivery of the
ball is necessary when a man is stealing a base.
But a speedy ball cannot make up for a delay
in getting the ball off — the base-runner is either
safe or out generally by the smallest fraction of

4 BASEBALL

a second; therefore any false motion on the part
of the catcher after receiving the ball from the
pitcher may allow the base-runner to steal a base.
The catcher should catch the ball, shift his feet
into the throwing posture, and draw back his arm
simultaneously; then he should instantly send the
ball on a line to the base.

Returning the Ball to the Pitcher

Return the ball so that it can be handled easily
by him. Don't make him jump or stoop for the
ball. On hot days work the pitcher slowly. It is
very advisable for the catcher to get into the habit
of returning the ball to the pitcher with a clean,
sharp delivery. This kind of return keeps the
pitcher alert, active, and "in the game." The
ball should be thrown with the same motion that
the catcher uses in throwing to a base; and the
ball should be thrown high — at about the level
of the pitcher's head. (This ball, therefore, with
a little more speed, will be exactly the same as
used in throwing to second base.)

When There Is a Base-Runner on First Base

The catcher, after receiving the ball from, the
pitcher, should glance at first base before begin-
ning the forward motion of the arm in returning
the ball to the pitcher. This action will assist

THE CATCHER 5

the catcher in preventing the runner from making
the "delayed steal." (For definition of "delayed
steal" see Team Play 24.)

Throwing to Bases ^

The catcher should constantly practise assum-
ing the throwing posture with great swiftness.
His success as a thrower depends upon the rapidity
with which he can catch and throw the ball, and
proficiency in these acts can be obtained only by
making this swiftness a habit through early and
constant practice.

During the early part of the season when base-
running is being practised, the catcher should
avail himself of every opportunity to throw to
bases to catch runners. Practise throwing to
bases with your mask and protector on, just as
you do in a game. Too often catchers throw with
these implements on only during a game — going
through the practice without them; then when
they do put them on, they cannot throw accurately
and quickly.

The catcher should not allow the batter to
bother him, but should throw as freely as though
there were no batter near him. If the batter
interferes in any way with the catcher's throw-
ing, the batter will be declared out. (In case the
batter does interfere, it is well for the catcher to

6 BASEBALL

emphasize this interference, and call the umpire's
attention to it.)

It is only through this constant practice of
throwing to catch runners (always having a bat-
ter hitting at the ball), that a catcher can get con-
fidence in himself; and this confidence will enable
him to avoid calling for waste halls, (For definition
of waste halls see Team Play 29.) When a catcher
gets into the habit of calling for waste balls, he
constantly gets his pitcher into difficulty, merely
to protect himself against having a base stolen.
When a pitcher has wasted one or two balls on
a batter, the batter has the decided advantage
over the pitcher, and will, if he be an intelligent
player, generally hit the next ball, knowing that
the pitcher will try to get a strike over on him.

This constant practice mentioned above, of
throwing to catch base-runners, will enable the
catcher to throw under all circumstances — ^which
is one of the most valuable assets he can have.

Throwing to First Base

When the catcher has fielded a batted ball, he
should throw to first base with an underhanded
swing — ^without straightening up — always throw^
ing to the second-hase side of first at least four feet,
to avoid hitting the runner. This also allows the

THE CATCHER 7

first-baseman to catch the ball without fear of col-
lision with the runner. The catcher should try for
all slow hit balls that are within his reach or that
of the pitcher, and if he can get the ball should
tell the pitcher so. His immediate start after
the ball will help him to recover all balls within
his reach; and if the ball is out of his reach, he
will at least have done all in his power. The least
hesitation on the part of the catcher to field a
bunt or short hit is fatal; hence the necessity of
getting the habit of trying for everything, "with
the crack of the bat." The catcher, when the
runner is forced at home, should touch home-base
and quickly throw the ball to first base three or
four feet to the left of the base. He should study
the base-runners carefully before giving signals.
This will often enable him to diagnose their in-
tentions. There is a strong probability that if the
batter intends to attempt a sacrifice bunt, the run-
ner will take a long lead off first. (Read Team
Play 19.) It is advisable occasionally, when the
bunt is expected, to call for a waste ball and snap
the ball to first base to try to catch the runner off
the base. (Since the first-baseman will see the sig-
nal for a waste ball, he will know what the play is
to be and will cover first base to receive the ball.)
The ball, on this play, should be thrown low, on
the inside of the base if possible, thus allowing

8 BASEBALL

the baseman to put the ball directly on the foot
of the runner as he sHdes back to the base. When
there is a runner on first and second, the catcher
can throw to first base to catch the runner (either
using the waste ball or not); then, if the catcher
thinks that the runner on second will go to third
if the same play is again attempted, he can feint
to throw to first, run into the diamond and trap
the runner between second and third if he attempts
to go to third.

For plays in which to retire the runner on first
base see Team Plays 17 and 18.

When there is a left-handed batter up, the
catcher, using the batter as a blind, can often
slip the ball to first base and catch the runner off.

Throwing to Seconp Base

When there is a man on first base the catcher,
as mentioned above, should study the base-
runner. The catcher may often detect the
runner's intention to steal second. Anxiety to get
a good lead, nervousness in watching the pitcher,
furtive glances at the coacher or the players'
bench, any unusual action — these often indicate
that the runner will steal. If these indications
are strong enough to justify the sacrifice of a
ball, the catcher should call for a waste ball; then,

THE CATCHER 9

if the base-runner is stealing, the catcher will have
the ball high and wide from the pitcher, away from
the batter in a good position to throw to second
base. On this play, with a right-handed hitter up,
the short-stop will receive the ball. The ball
should be thrown slightly to the third-base side of
second base. This will allow the short-stop to
catch the ball while on the run without overstep-
ping the base. The catcher, as he makes his throw,
should not watch the runner but should keep his
eye directly on second base. (First-baseman should
call out: "There he goes.") When there are no pos-
itive indications that the runner is about to steal
second, the catcher will, of course, call for various
kinds of balls; and whether the second-baseman
or short-stop will receive the throw, if the runner
steals second^ depends upon what kind of a hall the
pitcher throws and whether the batter be a dead
right or left field hitter. For instance: If, with a
right-handed batter up, the catcher signals for a
curve, the second-baseman will cover second; be-
cause a curved ball, being slower than a straight
one, will generally be hit to the left of the diamond
— hence the necessity of the short-stop remaining
in his position. If the catcher signals for a straight
ball, the short-stop covers second base. In each
case the reverse is true with a left-handed batter
up. And the catcher should preferably throw the

lo BASEBALL

ball a few feet to that side of the base from which the
man zvho will receive it is coming.

If the base-runner on second base takes a very
big lead off the base, the catcher should occa-
sionally throw the ball to second base. After
doing this a few times in a game, if the runner
persists in taking a long lead (and plans on going
to third if the catcher throws to second), it is
well for the catcher to feint to throw to second,
and if the runner starts to third, to run into the
diamond with the ball, feinting to throw first
to third and then to second — thus getting the
runner between the bases; and at the same
time shortening the distance which he must
finally throw to catch the runner. If the catcher
were to throw to third when the runner starts for
that base, it would be an easy matter for the
runner to turn and go back to second; and if the
catcher, from his position behind the plate, were
to throw to second the runner could easily run
to third.

If there is a man on second, and none out, and
the batter is expected to bunt (see Team Play
19), the man on second may be caught frequently
(since he is leading toward third), by calling for a
waste ball and snapping the ball to second.

THE CATCHER n

Throwing to Third Base

A great deal of time should be spent in prac-
tising the throw to third base, with the batter in
his box and a runner going from second to third
base. The throw should be low and on the in-
side corner of the base.

With a runner on first and third if the runner
on first starts for second on the pitcher's delivery,
play as follows:

The catcher must either throw through to second
(if the runner attempts to steal second) or make a
feint to throw to second, and then throw to third.
This feint (or blufF) must be made by using a
motion identical with that with which the catcher
throws to second — a weak attempt will be useless
to draw the man ofF third base. (A catcher should
practise this "blufF" a great deal.) Occasionally
a sharp return to the pitcher will be effective;
he can either snap the ball to third or to second,
or feint and throw to third.

If a runner on third base is taking a big lead
ofF the base, it is well to snap the ball to the
third-baseman and try to catch the runner off the
base. Sometimes in this play the waste ball may
be called — this, however, depends upon how well
the pitcher is working. Waste halls ought not to
he called for if the pitcher is having difficulty with
his control!

12 BASEBALL

The catcher should not allow base-runners to
take big leads off the bases. Frequently, when
three men are on bases, these men take big leads,
assuming that the pitcher and catcher are too
intent upon playing for the batter to pay any
attention to them. It is just at this time, there-
fore, that a cool-headed catcher can catch base-
runners napping. The catcher should squat ap-
parently to give his signal to his pitcher — but
really to study the base-runners — give a waste
ball signal (which, of course, the basemen get
and are ready to cover the bases), and by a snap
throw drive the ball to one of the bases. This
will at least tend to make the runners a bit less
free to lead off the bases.

If a catcher has caught a man between third
base and home, he should run the man back
toward third. In fact, whenever an opposing
base-runner is caught between bases, he should
be driven on the dead run back to the base from
which he came, and when he is ten or fifteen feet
from that base, the ball should be snapped — not
thrown easily — retiring the runner by a single
throw if possible. It is rarely necessary to make
more than one or two throws, unless it be to
catch the opposing pitcher, who must be kept
going as long as possible. If a runner who sees
that he is out at home stops and runs up and

THE CATCHER 13

down the line (to let the batter go to second),
the catcher should run him back to third as fast
as he can, snapping the ball to the third-baseman,
who can put the man out, and then throw to
second to retire the man trying to make that
base.

Fielding His Position

The catcher should at all times be "on his toes,"
that is, swift to follow the ball either as it rolls into
the diamond off the batsman's club, or is fouled
into the air; instantly throwing off his mask as he
goes after the ball. Having studied out beforehand
where to throw the hall, if called upon to field it, he
throws it without wasting time in figuring out the
play.

Before the game starts, the catcher should note
the position of the sun and the direction of the
wind (especially if there is a high wind). If the
sun shines directly in his eyes, it is advisable to let
the infielders handle high fly balls if they can, as
they will have the sun at their backs. As high
foul balls, going straight up in the air, are most
puzzling to handle, it will be of great assistance to
the catcher if he knows the direction of the wind,
since he can then make allowances for that wind.
By tossing a bit of grass or dust into the air or by
looking at the flags, he can easily determine the

14 BASEBALL

direction of the wind. These high foul flies are
especially hard to judge when the sky is very clear
(a high sky). After the catcher takes his first
look and locates the ball, he should drop his eyes
momentarily to the ground (this will relieve the
strain on the eyes); then upon the next upward
look, since the ball will be well on its downward
course, he can readily judge it. By gluing the eyes
to the ball when it is high in the air, a catcher
often finds himself going around in a circle — fre-
quently misjudging the ball entirely.

Practice and careful observation will soon en-
able a catcher to tell by the sound of a foul whether
it has gone into the air in such a way that it can
be recovered by him. If there is only a slight
tick, he will know that the ball has merely risen
a little out of its original course, and will go almost
on a line to the back-stop. But if there is a de-
cidedly heavy crack, the chances are that it has
gone nearly straight up; then he must sweep his
mask off as he whirls to start after it, all the while
looking up in search of the ball. Speed in whirhng,
speed in throwing off the mask, and speed in getting
started after the ball are all necessary to a good
catcher. The pitcher can help his catcher in the
matter of fouls — by yelling to him ij the foul can-'
not he caught. Otherwise the catcher should try
for everything.

THE CATCHER 15

There are only two occasions when the catcher
should leave his own position and go to hack up —
(reinforce) another player. One occurs when,
with a man on first base, the batter hits into a
double play. The catcher, seeing what is about
to happen, should run from his position to a point
about 30 feet back of first base, in a direct line
with the throw from second to first. On this play
the catcher should start with the batter, and should
run with all his speed obliquely to the point named.
If the throw is bad, he can recover the ball and
catch the runner as he rounds first base on his way
to second. This play does not happen every day;
yet many a game has been saved by the catcher
taking this position. (See Diagram I, page 199.)
The catcher should also back up first base when,
with no runners on base, the second-baseman is
fielding a ball where the throw must be made
hurriedly. Here the chances of the ball being
thrown badly are increased; therefore the catcher
can be of use.

Then, too, this quick start with the batter will
help to keep the catcher's legs limbered up, since
the stooping posture which the catcher assumes
while giving signals tends to harden and stiffen
the legs and muscles.

When receiving the ball on throws from the out-
field to prevent a man from scoring, the catcher

i6 BASEBALL

should station himself on the home-plate as a tar-
get at which the fielder can throw. As the ball
comes in, however, he should so place himself as
to have his body in front of the ball (blocking it if
necessary). Upon catching the ball, he should
speedily meet the runner and tag him as far as pos-
sible from the home-base, touching him with the
ball in such a way that he cannot slide either
around or under the ball. By waiting for the run-
ner to come to the catcher (after he has the ball)
the catcher often fails to put the man out. All
thrown balls from the outfield that look as though
they would land three or four feet in front of home-
base should be reached for and caught before they
bound (handled as a first-baseman catches his low
throws) — thus avoiding the necessity of handling
a very difficult bound; then the catcher should
whirl and put the ball on the runner.

Working With His Pitcher

The most valuable catcher is the one who will
forget himself entirely and devote all his attention
to easing the duties of his pitcher, and making him
more efficient. For instance, if, when there is a
runner on third base, the catcher knows that the
batter cannot hit a drop-ball, he should call for
that ball, no matter how hard it may be to catch.

First of all, the catcher should study the batter.

THE CATCHER 17

He should try to diagnose from the batter's general
attitude, step, swing, etc., just what kind of ball he
will most Hkely not be able to hit. If the catcher
is not at all familiar with the batter's style, of
course it is impossible to tell absolutely what he
will do. But there are certain points about a bat-
ter that quite generally indicate what kind of ball
he likes. (Of course, there are some batters who
hit almost any kind of a ball.) Now, if a batter
pulls his front foot away from the base, and has a
tendency to throw his body decidedly in the same
direction, it is quite probable that he will hit an
inside ball; therefore the catcher should call for
balls on the outside corner of the base, as they will
be most difficult for the batter to hit. If a batter,
stands close to his base and uses a long bat, it will
be difficult for him to hit a close ball. A batter
with a long bat standing away from the base gen-
erally finds difficulty in hitting a wide drop-ball.

After a batter has made a clean safe hit, the
catcher should make a deliberate eff'ort to remem-
ber just what kind of a ball it was that the batter
hit — and he should not call for that ball when the
same batter comes up again — but should try him
on something else.

It does not require much observation to enable
a catcher to discover into which field a batter hits
naturally. And when the catcher has satisfied

i8 BASEBALL

himself that a batter hits into a certain field, he
should call for those balls which will tend to make
the batter hit into the opposite field. For instance,
if a right-handed batter hits naturally into left field,
the catcher should make the pitcher keep the ball
on the outside corner of the base, thus forcing the
batter to hit into right field. It will be found that
if this batter is forced to hit outside balls, he will
not be able to hit as hard or well; and often he will
be unable to hit at all. Of course, success in thus
pitching to batters depends upon the pitcher's
ability to give the catcher just the kind of ball
called for. The catcher should get into the habit
of requiring a definitely placed ball every time he
signals; it must be either high or low and either
close to the batter, or on the outside of the base;
but rarely over the centre, waist-high, unless abso^
lutely necessary.

When there are men on bases and the ball is hit
to the pitcher, the catcher should coach him where
to throw the ball. On these plays, the catcher
has everything in front of him, while the pitcher
usually has his back to the base-runners. So, if
the catcher calls out immediately to the pitcher,
the latter can whirl and throw without any hesi-
tation.

It is advisable for a catcher always to have two
gloves ready for use — in case something happens

THE CATCHER 19

to the glove he is using. While breaking in a new
glove, he can use the new one when there are no
runners on bases — laying the old one on the
ground beside him to be used when the bases are
occupied by runners.

A catcher should see to it that his chest-pro-
tector is pliable, not stiff or blown up hard. Stiff-
ness in the protector impedes throwing and makes
squatting uncomfortable.

THE PITCHER

Little need be said of the relative value of a
pitcher to his team. To any one who knows base-
ball at all, this value is quite apparent. Other
things being equal, the team with the best
pitcher usually wins. And yet how few people
know just what constitutes good pitching ! To
the average spectator, a man seems to be a good
pitcher if he has lots of speed and good curves.
But to a close student of the game it becomes at
once apparent that a first-class pitcher must have
a fast ball (and generally a curve), a slow ball,
and control. The last-named quaHfication is the
vitally important one.

Control

And yet how few pitchers to-day can define
the word control! The significance of the word
pitcher to them is that he is one of nine men
occupying a definite position in the game of base-
ball. He works by prearranged signals with the
catcher, who may — for illustration — use one finger

THE PITCHER 21

♦

for a fast ball and two fingers for a curve ball.
We will grant that the pitcher has an abundance
of speed and good curves; if the catcher signals
for the fast ball, it is thrown, high or low, over
the centre of the plate or wide — it does not seem
to matter much to the pitcher — he has pitched a
fast ball since it was called for. The same thing
is often true of the curve ball. And the majority
of pitchers to-day are satisfied to let it go at that !
How often one hears the remark, "He has every-
thing in the box to-day; yet the opposing batters
are hitting the ball all over the field," and again,
"He has a thousand-dollar arm and a five-cent
head."

These pitchers think that control means plac-
ing every ball that they throw right over the
heart of the base, waist-high. That is exactly
what it does not mean. Strictly speaking, con-
trol means that ability in a pitcher which enables
him (after studying the batter) to throw that ball
which the batter cannot hit safely — always plac-
ing it either high or low (at the shoulders or knees)
and either on the inside or outside corner of the
base, avoiding the waist-high hall over the centre
of the base.

Study the batsman as he takes his position to
hit. In delivering the fast ball, try to place it
at what is the batter's weakest point. And in

22 BASEBALL

pitching the curve, try to break it low; that is
the only safe and successful place to break it.

How often the remark is heard that "He hasn't
a thing but a glove!" and yet this same pitcher
may be a consistent winner. But study him
well, and it will be found that he has two of
the greatest assets — namely, brains and control:
brains to note and remember a batter's weakness,
and the control to pitch to it.

The pitcher, on those days when he is not
pitching, should study the batters from the bench.
This will enable him to pick out the various bat-
ters' weaknesses, and he can use the knowledge
thus gained when he is in the box. While in the
game, remember the balls which the various
batters hit successfully — and try something else
on them the next time they are at bat. If you
find that during the game you are being hit freely,
stop and try to "think out" what the trouble
is; and the chances are you will find that you
have been putting the ball over the middle of
the base, breaking your curves high, or giving
the batters just what they like. Stop and think!
Do not become enraged and try to drive the ball
past the batter's club, because "the faster they
come, the farther they will go" (unless you
mix a little brains with your speed). In these
days when everybody has the art of curving

THE PITCHER 23

the ball the successful pitcher depends to a great
extent upon a change of pace; that is, the alter-
nating of fast balls with curves and slow balls.
This change of pace will do more than anything
else to prevent being hit freely.

Early-Season Training

As is true in the case of every ball player, the
pitcher should begin his early-season training by
getting his whole body into good condition. It
is a grave mistake to think that all a pitcher has^
to do is to get his arm into shape to throw nine
innings twice a week. Many a pitcher has weak-
ened in the last part of the game, not because
his arm was not powerful enough, but because
the rest of his physique was exhausted; he had
neglected the rest of his body while training the
arm alone. Road-work, dumb-bells, handball, any- ^vv
thing to bring all the muscles into play, regularly,
and out-of-doors if possible, will give a man
the right start in his training. And during the
early-season work, the pitchers, when not in
the box, should work hard to get their legs in
good condition. To get good wind and endurance i^
chase fly balls in the outfield. Practise fielding
bunts off the side lines; this will help wonderfully ^*'
in games — and the work will help to put you in
sound condition. Another excellent exercise is

24 BASEBALL

that of batting fly balls to the outfield; swinging
the bat will strengthen the arms and the back
muscles. In order to pitch a long, hard game,
your whole body will be called upon to reinforce
your arm, and you will be called upon to hit and
run bases like any other player; so prepare your-
self by careful training.

Getting Control and Caring for the Arm

The importance of control has been empha-
sized above; we shall now deal with the methods
of acquiring it. Some pitchers have no difficulty
with control; it comes to them naturally, just
as batting comes naturally to some players. But
most pitchers are not so fortunate; they acquire
control only after long practice. If you are one
of the less fortunate, work to get your eye and
muscles so trained that perfect co-ordination fol-
lows; in other words, so that you can control the
ball. If necessary, pitch to a mark on a piece
of canvas, or an old mattress set up against the
wall. Make lines on the mattress (or canvas) at
the height of a batter's knees and shoulders — put
up sticks or boards six inches from each side of
the base to indicate the batter's position. Then
throw with the deUberate intention of placing the
ball at a definite spot. Some managers advocate
pitching to a dummy of the average batter's size.

THE PITCHER 25

Take a half-dozen balls and deliver them at the
mark one after another; walk after them, return
to your position and pitch again — the walk will
limber you up. Repeat this for half an hour, day
after day, and the result will be generally quite
gratifying. Of course, if it is possible to have
somebody catch for you, so much the better.

It is imperative, however, that the season be
started with easy, slow, graceful throwing move-
ments. Increase the speed day b}'' day — learn-
ing to keep the fast ball high or low — at the *v
shoulder or knee.

Develop the overhanded motion as much as
possible with the long, swinging motion of the
arm; follow the forward motion of the arm with
the body, leaning forward as you throw. Bring
the back into play as much as possible; this will
increase your speed and decrease the strain on
your arm. (See frontispiece.) Avoid using the
short, jerky elbow motion in delivering the ball.
Always remember to throw the hall at some particular
spoty either high or low, on the inside or outside
corner. The corners count as much as across the
middle, and these balls are hard to hit safely.

A week's practice on the fast ball will strengthen
the arm sufficiently to allow gradual work on the
curve. Do not throw the curved ball until the
arm has been made perfectly strong by the use

26 BASEBALL

of speed (straight balls). Many pitchers have
ruined their arms by beginning to throw curves
before their arms were strong. The arm may
feel strong very early in the season, but it really
is not; the muscles are tender and are easily
strained — especially by throwing curves. Right
here applies the old saying that "A man is weak-
est when at his strongest." Begin by throwing
the curve slowly; then increase the speed day by
day — never losing sight of the fact that every
ball delivered must be over some part of the base.

To get the right control, pitch to batters in
their position as much as your arm will permit.

Pitchers who are working for control, especially
young players just starting out, should never
try to pitch when the arm feels tired, "dead,"
or heavy. Light work during the early spring
(or late winter) with dumb-bells and pulleys will
strengthen the arms and back. However, a
great deal of this kind of work is not advisable,
because a pitcher does not need a large, muscular
arm; such arms are usually somewhat muscle-
bound, lacking in flexibleness and snap qualities
very essential to the pitcher's arm. Probably one
of the surest indications of the condition of the
arm is the weight that the ball seems to have. If
it feels light — and your arm responds readily —
usually your arm is in good condition to pitch.

THE PITCHER 27

But if the ball feels heavy, and it is only with an
effort that you can swing your arm, then be care-
ful. It is an easy matter to make the arm sore;
and as the pitcher's arm is his greatest asset, ex- '
treme care is necessary to avoid injuring it. The
old policy of "pitching out" a soreness is a dan-
gerous experiment to try, as the affected parts
are usually aggravated all the more by forced
exercise.

Warming Up

Be sure to have your arm (and body too) warm]
before beginning to pitch hard. Start the pre-/
liminary throwing slowly, and increase the speed 1
gradually until the required warmth is produced.^
Fifteen minutes is a safe time limit to place on
the warming-up before a game; the last four or
five minutes should be spent in throwing the ball
as hard as you intend to in the game. How often
have games been won and lost in the opening in-
nings before the pitcher was well warmed up !
The pitcher "hits his stride" toward the last of
the game — but it is then too late. To go into the
game properly warmed up means to pitch the
best ball from the very beginning. Always keep
the arm and body well covered — a good woollen
shirt is desirable. (It is advisable to have a dry
shirt handy, to which you can change if it is
necessary to remain on the field.)

28 BASEBALL

Rubbing the Arm

If the arm feels fresh and strong and is without
pain or heaviness, stay away from the "rubber."
It is a bad thing to get into the habit of having
the arm rubbed constantly. (Some masseurs
rub the life all out of the arm.) Continued ap-
plication of liniments to the arm produces what
is known as the "medicine arm" — that is, one
which depends upon the stimulating effects of
the "rub"; in this case the muscles lose their
natural Hfe and demand artificial vigor. Need-
less to say, such arms soon become flabby and
useless as pitching organs.

The tired, overworked, or strained arm needs
first of all — rest ! There are numerous remedies
for sore arms — every trainer has a different one.
They are all surface effects; no liniment reaches
the sore spot — ^yet any counter-irritant will help
to draw the soreness out. A liberal application
of hot towels is as good as anything. If the arm
feels heavy and "dead," especially if there is
pain, rest it for a few days — don't throw at all;
for in doing so you are likely to ruin it. After
four or five days of rest, begin to throw gradually;
and if there is no pain, and the arm has regained
its vigor, then work carefully to prepare your-
self to pitch. It is well, however, during this

THE PITCHER 29

rest, not to remain absolutely idle — the exercise
gained in chasing balls is conducive to keeping
in good physical condition (being careful not to
strain the arm while returning the balls).

The Waste Ball

There are times when it is absolutely necessary
for the catcher to receive the ball beyond the
reach of the batter and at a height from which
it is easy to throw. This ball is called the waste
ball, because it is virtually wasted on the batter.

The pitcher should develop the ability to
throw this ball whenever the catcher calls for it.
It should be thrown high and outside of the base
away from the batter — so that he cannot hit it.
It is pretty certain that when the waste-ball sig-
nal is given, some position will be left uncovered;
therefore do all in your power to perfect the play
which your catcher has planned. Nothing is
more disheartening to a fielder than to have a ball
hit through his position, which he has left in order
to complete some signal play.

Holding and Throwing the Ball

The pitcher should hold and deHver all balls as
nearly alike as possible to prevent the batter
from diagnosing the delivery. For instance, if
the pitcher delivers the fast ball with an over-

30 BASEBALL

hand motion, he should throw his curve and slow
ball the same way. If he uses the overhand
delivery for his fast ball, and a side-arm motion
for the curve, it won't take an opposing team long
to find it out; and then they can always tell
ahead of time just what to expect.

The Fast Ball

In delivering the fast ball, grasp it firmly with
the first two fingers and the thumb and let it
go ofF the tip of the fingers. Some pitchers get
the best results by placing the two fingers along
the seams, each finger on a seam (where they are
closest together, see illustration facing page 34);
others place the two fingers across the seams; while
others have success by grasping it with the fingers
and thumb in almost any position. A pitcher
should try these different methods and adopt the
one that gives him the best results. Start this
ball and deliver it either in the manner shown in
illustration opposite or in the frontispiece. When
delivered with a motion that is between straight
overhand and side-arm, this ball, with all the
power of arm and back behind it, will break a
little (that is, when thrown by a right-handed
pitcher to a right-handed batter, the ball bores in
toward the batter). If the required speed is pres-
ent, the ball will seem to hop or rise.

THE PITCHER DELIVERING AN UNDERHAND FAST BALL.

THE PITCHER 31

Keep this fast ball shoulder-high and as near
the corners of the plate as possible, never cut-
ting the centre of the plate unless compelled to;
occasionally throwing it low — at the batter's knees.
This low fast ball is very effective when alternated
with the low drop-ball — using the same general de-
livery in each case. A pitcher who has a good fast
ball which he can control is not compelled to
throw many curves — only enough to unsettle the
batter by letting him know that he has a variety.

The Out-Curve
The preliminary motions of throwing the out-
curve are the same as those of throwing the fast
ball — the grip on the ball, the wind-up, and the
back movement are identical in each case. But
instead of letting the ball go off the tips of the
fingers, as is done when throwing the fast ball,
the out-curve is produced by a twist of the wrist
bringing the hand across in front of the body
nearly horizontally, with the back of the hand
downward, spinning the ball with nearly a vertical
axis, letting it go out between the thumb and the
side of the index-finger. (See illustration facing
page 32.)

The Drop-Curve
The preliminary motions of throwing this ball
should be the same as those of throwing the fast

32 BASEBALL

ball and out-curve. There are two methods of
producing this curve.

One is the following: The ball is sent spinning
with a horizontal axis by a twist of the wrist,
bringing the hand directly downward — the back
of the hand vertical — letting the ball go out be-
tween the thumb and side of the index-finger.
(See illustration A facing this page.)

Another method of throwing the drop-curve is
that of twisting the wrist and bringing the hand
directly downward with the palm up, letting the
ball go out between the tips of the fingers and
thumb, with a snap of the wrist. (See illustra-
tion B facing this page.)

The Out-Drop

Use the same preliminary motions as in throw-
ing the fast ball.

This curve should be thrown the same as the
out-curve, except that instead of bringing the hand
across in front horizontally, it should be swept
diagonally outward and downward. (See illus-
tration facing page 34.)

The Change of Pace

All curve balls should not be thrown with the
same speed. It is very effective to throw curves
(especially drop-curves) occasionally with very

THE OUT-CURVE.

""/T H

^^ ^^"- ^^

^i" ■«

^. THE DROP-CURVE.

i^. THE DROP-CURVE.

THE PITCHER 33

little power behind them, thus producing a slow
curve — or what is known as a change of pace. This
also is true of the straight ball.

The Slow Ball

This ball should be thrown with identically the
same motion as the fast ball, the only difference
being in the way the ball is held. There are
several methods of producing the slow ball, among
which the following are most common. (It is ad-
visable to experiment with these various methods,
and to adopt one only after being convinced that
it will produce the best results.)

(fl) Grasp the ball with the first two fingers and
the thumb, pushing the ball well back into the
hand against the base of the fingers and thumb.
Then, in throwing the ball, remove the ends of the
fingers from the ball, grasping it with the thumb
and last joints of the fingers.

Q?) Deliver the ball held by the thumb and last
two fingers, removing the first two fingers entirely
from the ball upon delivering it.

(c) Deliver the ball held in the palm of the hand
by the thumb and little finger — the three middle
fingers entirely removed from the ball. (See illus-
trations A, B, and C, facing page 36.)

In throwing the slow ball, the pitcher should
avoid making a slow motion; the motion should

34 BASEBALL

be as rapid and vigorous as though producing the
fast or curved ball. It is only in this way that the
ball can be made deceptive.

The Knuckle Ball

Hold the ball in the palm of the hand, grasped by
the thumb and last two fingers, with the first two
fingers bent in, pressing the knuckles against the
ball. (See illustration facing this page.) Some
pitchers press the knuckles of the three middle
fingers against the ball.

The knuckle ball is curious in that it combines
the effects of the slow ball with the drop-curve
and the moist ball.

It is, however, a difficult ball to control, having
been mastered by but few pitchers.

The Moist Ball (Spit-Ball)

Hold the ball just as it is held when throwing
the fast ball, except that the fingers must rest on
a smooth part of the cover (avoiding the seams)
— the thumb preferably across the seams. The
cover of the ball should be moistened with saliva
under the ends of the first two fingers.

In order to obtain the best results, this ball
should be thrown with considerable speed, just
as the fast ball is thrown.

THE FAST BALL.

THE PITCHER 35

Fielding the Position

The pitcher, after he has thrown the ball to the
batter, should at once become an infielder — and
he can be a very important one. But before he
does deliver the ball, he should plan what to do
with the ball if it is hit to him. He should get
into the habit of covering first base, home-base,
and third base; and also of backing up these
bases when it is necessary.

Whenever the pitcher has fielded a ball and is
to throw to a base, unless the throw be a short
one, he should not delay, or throw the ball
slowly — a quick, true throw is the safest way to
retire the runner.

Few conditions are more fatal to a ball team
than that of having weak fielding pitchers. Once
let the opponents know that the "slabman" can't
handle batted balls, and immediately a shower
of bunts will follow.

A great deal of practice should be put on han-
dling batted balls of all kinds. And the most
practical work can be done by having men bunt
and then run to first. In this way the pitcher
becomes accustomed to throwing on the inside
of the base-line away from the path of the runner;
he also gains practice in gauging the time of the
throw.

36 BASEBALL

All bunts should be picked up and thrown
with an underhanded motion. Straightening up
to throw wastes too much time. Practise fielding
bunts on both sides of the diamond. Start after
a bunt at the crack of the bat — pick it up, one hand
if necessary, and snap it to first without straighten-
ing up — do not use any long swing with this motion.
Practise the underhand throw to first. On bunts
between the pitcher and third-baseman which
the third-baseman gets, the pitcher should cover
third base and be ready to receive the ball in
case the runner is coming from first to third, on
the play.

When a bunted ball rolls between the pitcher
and the catcher, if the ball can be handled better
by the pitcher, he should call out **Mine" ! The
catcher should do the same if he can field the ball.
This calling out prevents collisions.

When the ball is hit to the first-base side of
the diamond, if the ball is not within the pitcher's
reach, he should always cover first base. (He is
really an assistant first-baseman.) Very fre-
quently the pitcher will have to cover first base
with such speed that he cannot stop at the base
but will have to overrun it. When running at
top speed, it is difficult to catch the ball, touch
the base, and avoid the runner all at once; there-
fore a great deal of practice should be put in on

A. Base of first two fingers on the ball.

B, First two fingers oflF the ball.

C. First three fingers off the ball.

THE PITCHER 37

covering first and receiving the ball from the
infielders. The fact that the pitcher will cover
first base allows the first-baseman to cover a great
deal of ground. On bunts between pitcher and
first-baseman both players should be sure that
either one or the other gets the ball, the other one
covering. In this play if the pitcher gets the ball,
he can either make the put-out himself, or toss
the ball to whoever is covering first base — either
the second-baseman or first-baseman. If the
pitcher is unable to get the bunted ball, he should
continue toward first base, to be ready to cover
that base if it is necessary.

In fielding the ball to a base (with men on bases)
the pitcher should always listen to his catcher,
who will coach him where to throw the ball; this
practice saves the pitcher the work of deciding the
play himself — and of course makes it fast.

When, with second base occupied by a runner,
the ball is hit safely to the outfield, and the ball
is being thrown home to catch the man who is
scoring from second, the pitcher should get in line
with the throw at a point about thirty feet in
front of the catcher. (For other methods of mak-
ing this play see Diagrams II and III, pages 199
and 200.) Then if the catcher sees that he cannot
handle the ball in time to retire the runner, he
should call to the pitcher to intercept it; where-

38 BASEBALL

upon the pitcher catches it and throws to second
— retiring the base-runner there, i. e., the batsman
who will be running to second on the throw to
the plate. (As to when to play when ball is hit
past the outfielders see Diagrams IV, V, VI, and
VIII, pages 200, 201, and 202.)

After a hit to an infielder, it is unnecessary to
cross the line between the runner and first base.
The pitcher in so doing merely uses up energy
that should be reserved for pitching. If the ball
is thrown poorly, the first-baseman will get it
almost as quickly as the pitcher can. Indeed, in
crossing the line, the pitcher is increasing the
runner's chances of reaching first base; for if the
pitcher blocks the runner in any way, the runner
is entitled to first base. The runner knows, or
should know, this, and is probably making every
effort to come in contact with the pitcher.

The pitcher should cover home-base on all plays
that take the catcher away from his position —
such as foul flies, wild pitches, etc. (See also
Diagram VIII, page 202.)

On short foul flies, the pitcher should coach
his catcher; a sharp word of direction here will
often help the catcher to find the ball.

The pitcher should back up third base on long
hits (especially right-field hits) — not ten feet
behind the base, where the ball can bound off

THE PITCHER 39

the baseman's glove over the pitcher's head, but
fifty feet behind him, so as to be able to cover
ground to the right or left.

The pitcher should never find himself standing
in the middle of the diamond doing nothing while
a play is going on; rather back up some place —
give directions, or cover a base — be useful *

Working with His Catcher

A young pitcher should rely upon the judgment
of his catcher in the matter of kind of balls to
throw, especially if the catcher is one of expe-
rience and has knowledge of the batters' weak-
nesses. But when the pitcher has had an equal
amount of experience, it is a good plan for him
at times to use his own judgment, since he knows
better than any one else the condition of his arm,
and what control he has of certain balls. Instead
of shaking his head when he disagrees with the
catcher, the pitcher should have some other sign
whereby he can tell his catcher to call another
ball: such as rubbing his shirt or tossing the ball
up in the air. It is a good plan to talk things over
frequently with the catcher; make note of the
batters — their strong and weak points, etc.

Two heads are better than one; therefore think
with your catcher!

40 BASEBALL

The Pitcher's Motion

When there is no one on base, the pitcher can use
a slow motion of the arm before throwing the balL
He should acquire a long, continuous motion of the
arm, bringing the back into play by leaning as far
forward as possible in delivering the ball. The
motion may be started as slowly as desired, but
when the arm starts finally upward and forward.
Its motion should be accelerated, giving snap and
vim to the delivery — letting the ball go when the
body and arm are extended as far as possible to-
ward the batter.

Avoid using, regularly, any jerky, half-continu-
ous motions — as they are hard on the arm. Spare
the elbow as much as is possible — that is, make
your regular pitching motion with a full-arm
swing, rather than a bent-arm snap.

When a base-runner is Hable to steal, all wind-up
motions should be discontinued — all preliminary
motions used regularly in throwing to the batter
must be stopped. Face the batter and extend the
left foot if you are right-handed; if you are left-
handed extend the right. In this position you will
be ready to deHver the ball to the batter with
the least possible loss of time. Very frequently
catchers are blamed for allowing men to steal bases,

THE PITCHER 41

when in reality it is the pitcher's fault, since he
was slow in making his delivery.

Throwing to Bases

One of the tests of a good pitcher is the way he
keeps the runners close to the bases. Pitchers
should put a great deal of time in practising the
act of holding base-runners close to their bases.
It is a very common thing to see pitchers lose all
control of the ball when there are men on bases.
This is due almost entirely to the fact that the
pitchers cannot use their long preliminary mo-
tion before throwing. It is a good plan in the
early-spring play to practise on imaginary runners
while pitching to batters. Look at the runner
and then make the hurried delivery to the batter.
Constant work at this will enable the pitcher to
keep his control, speed, and curves.

To prevent having bases stolen on you, avoid
all preliminary (unconscious) motions, such as
shifting the feet, dropping or raising the shoulders,
bending the knees, or twitching the hips, unless
you take advantage of them to help you in hold-
ing base-runners close to their bases. In other
words, do not get into the habit of working auto-
matically; e. g., hunching the shoulder every time
before throwing to the batter, and using another
motion regularly before throwing to a base. If you

42 BASEBALL

hunch your shoulder regularly, before throwing
to the batter, hunch your shoulder occasionally
and then throw to a base. (This is taking ad-
vantage of any peculiarity of motion that you may
have.) Do everything possible to prevent the
base-runner from getting a running start on you.
If you can perfect a deceptive delivery, do so. If
the runner has a big lead ofF first, toss a few slow
ones over to get him; then whirl and with all pos-
sible speed snap the ball low and on the inside cor-
ner of the base. Avoid throwing to first base
unnecessarily. Base-runners often tire the pitcher
by playing off so far that many throws are made
to catch them — obtaining base on balls for the
batter. In fact, the chief reason for throwing to
first is not to catch the runner off the base but to
hold him on, often outguessing him when he is
about to steal.

When the batter has one ball and no strike,
two balls and no strike, three balls and one or two
strikes, then the pitcher should throw to first base.
For in these conditions the pitcher is at a disadvan-
tage {is in the hole), and the runner may be get-
ting a start on a clean steal, or the hit-and-run
play. (See Team Play 22.) So try to catch him
leaning toward second. (Nine times out of ten
the base-runner, if he has the hit-and-run signal,
or intends to steal, will be "hunching" toward

THE PITCHER 43

second.) Practise watching the runner out of the
corner of your eye. This will often help in de-
ciding whether the throw to first is necessary.

In throwing to first base, a right-handed pitcher
can use a signal with his third-baseman.

Runner on First Base

When nobody is out and there is a man on
first base, if the pitcher expects the batter to
bunt, he should throw that ball which is hardest
to bunt, namely, the high, fast ball; then he should
be ready to field the ball and throw it either to
first or second, according to the catcher's direc-
tions.

When there is a man on first base and one outy
the pitcher should be ready for a clean steal — or
the "hit-and-run" play.

Man on Second

The pitcher can hold the runner close to second
base by working with a signal from his catcher —
whereby the catcher signals to the baseman and
pitcher at the same time, the latter turning and
making the throw to second without first looking.
(See Team Play 14.) Or he may work with his
short-stop or second-baseman — using, as signal to
throw, a nod of the head, closing of the hand,
or some other simple movement.

44 BASEBALL

It takes time to perfect this sudden turn and
throw to second base; therefore the pitcher should
practise it constantly until he is master of it: a
right-handed pitcher should turn to the left — a
left-handed pitcher to the right. He should not
throw directly at the base, but a foot to that side
of it nearest the baseman. This will give the
baseman time to catch the ball and retire the run-
ner without overrunning the base. For instance,
if the short-stop is covering, the pitcher should
throw the ball to the left-field side of second base
— and vice versa if the second-baseman is cover-
ing— i. e.y on the right-field side of second base.
This play will catch many a runner napping.

Whenever the short-stop bluffs the base-run-
ner back toward second (without any signal for
a throw from the pitcher), the pitcher should be
ready to make his delivery to the batter. For
when the short-stop starts for second, the runner
will do the same, and if the pitcher delivers the
ball to the batter, the runner will be headed back
to second — thus being prevented from stealing,
and slowed up on scoring in case of a hit.

When there is a man on second — and none out —
if the pitcher expects a bunt, occasionally, as
the short-stop runs the man back to second, he
can put the ball right over the base, that it may
be bunted — and then he can run in, get the ball,

THE PITCHER 45

and retire the man at third — ^working with the
first-baseman, who also comes in.

Since the pitcher is allowed to make motions
to second without throwing the ball there, it is
a good plan to develop some slight motion toward
second to drive the runner back to that base
before deHvering the ball to the batter. This
motion need be nothing more than a quick look
at second while drawing the arm back to throw
to the batter.

When there is a man on second — the pitcher
should help the third-baseman by going sharply
after balls to the right — and retiring the man at
third. Otherwise, if the third-baseman has to
field them, third base is generally left unprotected
and the runner reaches there safely from second.

Runner on Second

When there is a man on second base and the
ball is hit sharply to you, there are three ways in
which you can play the man on second. One is
to drive him back to second by a quick motion —
then whirling and throwing the batter out at first.
Another play occurs when, as you turn toward
second, the runner stops between second and
third — your play here is to run directly toward
him — preferably driving him back toward second
and making the "put-out" there. The other

46 BASEBALL

play is to throw to third if the runner attempts
to go to that base when the ball is hit to you.

Always remember what bases are occupied and by
whom, and how many are out!

Runner on Third

One or none out. When there is a man on
third — and the ball is hit sharply to you — ^you
should retire the runner on third when it is possi-
ble, or drive him back to third before throwing
the batter out at first.

Runner on First and Third

If the man on first starts for second on your
delivery, be prepared to receive the ball from the
catcher. If he does throw the ball at you, catch
it — and be ready to throw it home instantly (if
the runner is scoring); or if you can't play the
man on third — ^whirl and throw to second; fre-
quently you can catch the man coming from
first. This play to be successful demands in-
stantaneous action — and accurate and speedy
throwing. (A great deal of practice is necessary
before the average pitcher can handle this fast
ball and make the play correctly.)

Runner on First and Third

If, while you have the ball in your hand, the
man on first starts for second, whirl immediately.

THE PITCHER 47

turning toward third base, and noting what the
runner there is doing. He may be starting for
home as the runner leaves first — or he may be
playing off the base ready to go home as you
throw to second. So drive the man back to
third, and snap the ball to second. If you can
catch the runner off third, do so.

Breaking up the Squeeze Play

Runner on third, {Second and third — or firsts
second, and third.) In any of these positions
the pitcher should watch for an attempted
"squeeze play" and be prepared to break it up.
(See Team Play 23.) In order to do this, take
your wind-up motion slowly — all the while watch-
ing the runner on third base. Often he will start
for home before you have begun the final motion
in delivering the ball. In this case, if the fast ball
is called, you can either throw the ball high and
wide (out of the batter's reach) or directly over
the batter's head. In the former case, he will
usually be unable to bunt safely; in the latter, he
will think only of getting out of the way of the
ball. If the curve is called, break it wide — out of
the batter's reach.

48 BASEBALL

A Few General Pitching Hints

The most successful curve is the out-drop, be-
cause it curves outward and downward; and
therefore is difficult to hit squarely.

The slow ball is something every pitcher should
have if he would be successful. Nothing worries
a good batter so much as to face a pitcher who
is known to have a good slow ball to mix with his
fast one. Remember, however, to use the slow
ball very seldom against a weak hitter; it is the
good hitter against whom it works most suc-
cessfully.

The slow ball is the most difficult of all deliv-
eries to master, but its effectiveness is well worth
any amount of time spent on it. This ball is
most difficult to hit when thrown across the base
in the neighborhood of the batter's knees; then
there is a tendency for the batter to hit on top of
it, driving it weakly on the ground. It is only
after a careful study of the batters that the pitcher
can know when to use the slow ball. Usually
batters who take long swings at the ball have diffi-
culty in hitting it.

Pitching, from beginning to end, involves the
pitcher and the batter in a battle of wits. The
pitcher should so vary the kind of balls he throws
that the batter cannot guess successfully what is

THE PITCHER 49

coming. A thoughtful batter, knowing that the
pitcher has a good assortment, will generally ex-
pect diflferent kinds of balls to be thrown. The
pitcher, therefore, may at times throw three fast
balls or three curves in succession; thereby out-
witting the batter. Or he may use other com-
binations; such as an alternation of fast ball
and curve; or two fast balls and a slow ball; or
two curves and a fast ball; or two curves and a
slow ball — anything to prevent the batters from
discovering regularity in the pitcher's delivery.

A good pitcher will always try to put the.batter
"in the hole"; that is, at the disadvantage of hav-
ing more strikes than balls against him. Then
the pitcher can afford to make the batter hit at
balls that are not good. Here again, however,
the pitcher may outwit the batter by throwing a
perfectly good strike when the latter is expect-
ing a curve or other ball away from the plate.
This is called "slipping one over."

Do not be afraid to give a batter four balls, if
by doing so (without forcing in a run) you can get
rid of a good hitter to bring up a poor one. In
fact, this is sometimes the best thing to do, if the
batter has the advantage in balls and strikes, when
the man who would make the winning run is on
second or third. In this case, make the batter
hit a bad ball, or give him a base on balls; then

50 BASEBALL

work hard to get the advantage over the next
batter, preventing him from hitting safely.

If you find that you are having trouble con-
trolling the ball from your regular place on the
rubber, shift your feet a little to either side. This
may help you to regain your control.

If your fast ball persists in carrying in close to
the batter, move your catcher out a bit.

The moist ball (or spit-ball) is one of the late
innovations into the game, and has helped to in-
sure many a pitcher who is without a good curve
ball his position on the team. Many pitchers
use this ball, but few of them rank as first class.
If you are fortunate enough to possess spe.ed and
good curves, avoid using the moist ball, as it is
very hard on the arm (and the majority of clubs
prefer the other class of pitchers).

Work especially hard to retire the first batter
every inning.

Remember what bases are occupied by runners,
and who these runners are — whether they are
fast or slow. This will help you in deciding where
to play the ball if it is hit to you.

Do not get yourself into difficulty by throwing
balls to the batter — your infield and outfield are
there to help you; and they would much rather
see the opposing team hit the ball than walk to
first base.

THE PITCHER 51

Inspire your team by your actions of confidence
and judgment; then they will work harder and
better behind you. Figure every possibility as
the batter takes his position in the box.

If your men are making errors behind you, do
not become discouraged or show resentment; this
is a time when you must control yourself and the
ball in such a way as to pull your team together.
A team cannot win consistently if its pitchers
lack courage; therefore, when you take your posi-
tion on the mound, resolve that, no matter how
great the odds may be against you, you will never
lose your nerve.

Pay no attention to remarks addressed to you
by the opposing players or the spectators; they
are likely to say various things merely to discon-
cert you. You must remain cool and thoughtful
all through the game, no matter how wild the
excitement may run among the spectators.

Before pitching to each batter, be sure that
your fielders are all placed properly.

Do not become careless when there is a weak
hitter at bat; he wouldn't be in the ball game if
he couldn't hit at times.

If any unusual delay occurs while the game is
in progress, do not stand idly by. Select your
first-baseman or any other handy player, and
throw the ball to him, thereby keeping your arm
warm until the game is resumed.

52 BASEBALL

Toward the end of the game, when you are
ahead — no matter how much — do not assume
that the game is won and become careless. Con-
tinue to use your head, and control the ball.

Do not be unwilling to take advice from your
fellow players during the game or at any other
time. Many heads are better than one.

A little plaster of Paris powder, or powdered
chalk, carried in the hip pocket, may come in
handy on wet days to rub on the ball.

Remember that, to be at your best and to have
a long Hfe in baseball, you must keep good hours
and avoid all excesses.

Ill

THE FIRST-BASEMAN

Footwork

Accustom the feet to feel for the base. Be-
fore receiving a thrown ball, stand just inside of
the diamond with feet spread on each side of the
base; then when the ball is thrown, shift in the
direction of the ball. If it comes to the right,
extend the right foot — hooking the base with the
left; if it comes to the left, extend the left foot
— hooking the base with the right. Practise this
constantly.

The first-baseman should never cross his feet;
that is, extend the left foot when reaching to the
right, and vice versa. (See illustration facing
page 54.) By so doing, the reach is shortened
and the position is made very awkward.

Never remain on the base when the ball has
been thrown too wide to be handled. You can
do nothing without the ball; therefore, leave the
base and take a chance on touching the runner
or getting back to the base ahead of him.

In handling low-thrown balls (pick-ups), the
first-baseman should reach forward as far as pos-

54 BASEBALL

sible, keeping one foot against the base, trusting
that if the ball gets away from his hands it will
be blocked by his body. Keeping the foot against
the base and judging how far you can reach re-
quires a great deal of practice. Do not turn the
head away from the ball, for in so doing it is im-
possible to follow the bound.

Working with the Pitcher

The success of a first-baseman depends to a
great extent upon the amount of ground he can
cover. And in order that he may cover ground,
he must know that the pitcher is ready at all times
to go to first base. The first-baseman should con-
stantly coach the pitcher to take the base on all balls
hit to the first-baseman. Knowing that the pitcher
will take first, he can play well back and cover
ground to the right and left.

In making a play to first base when the pitcher
is covering that base, it is absolutely necessary
to toss the ball to him. Keep the ball well in
the air and ahead of the pitcher as he runs to
the base — this enables him to get the location
of the base and catch the ball at the same time
— all the while going at full speed. A fast thrown
ball, on this play, either gets away from the
pitcher because he hasn't time to cover it, if it is
over the base, or it slows him up, since he has to

THE FIRST-BASEMAN 55

stop in order to catch the ball. When it is pos-
sible, toss the ball so that the pitcher receives it
just before reaching the base.

Catching Thrown Balls

The first-baseman should be adept at catching
the ball with the gloved hand alone, as well as
with both hands. He is constantly being forced
to handle bad throws, and since he can reach much
farther with one hand than he can with two, it
is essential that he cling to the ball whenever he
gets one hand on it. Practise catching with the
gloved hand alone. But never use one hand when
you can get both on the ball !

When there is a fast man coming down the base-
line from home, stretch out as far as you can to
meet the ball; by so doing, you will receive the
ball sooner. Many base-runners who otherwise
would be safe are declared out when the play is
made this way.

It is well to get into the habit in practice of call-
ing for the ball on the inside of the diamond out
of the path of the runner. But a first-baseman
should not be afraid of reaching right in front of a
base-runner to get the ball; then, no matter what
happens — hold the ball !

After receiving a thrown ball from the infield,
the first-baseman should instantly shift into a

56 BASEBALL

throwing position — watching the other base-run-
ners. A second lost will often enable a clever base-
runner to steal a base.

Tagging the Runner

The first-baseman should develop a sharp, swift
motion in putting the ball on the runner as
he comes back to the base. Always reach low —
and sweep the ball on the runner just in front of
the base. When it is possible, especially with a
runner caught between first base and second base,
meet the runner a few feet from the base, but be
sure he can't slide under the ball. Do not try
to pound the runner hard with the ball — the ball
might bound out of your hands — a swift, light
touch takes less time and is safer.

The Question of Choosing a Right or Left
Handed Thrower

In only one particular has a left-handed first
baseman the advantage over a right-handed man;
and that is in throwing to second base to make
double plays. When he gets the ball he is in a
natural position to throw to second base; while the
right-handed man is compelled to make almost a
complete turn before he is in a position to throw to
that base. Therefore, other things being equal,

THE FIRST-BASEMAN 57

the first consideration governing the choice would
be the players* batting ability.

Fielding the Position

The distance from first base that the fielder
should play can only be determined by the indi-
vidual himself. The rule is to cover as much
ground as possible — safely. A moderate distance
when playing back — to be varied by the ability of
the individual player — is a position eight paces
from the base along the base-line, and eight paces
perpendicularly back. (See Diagram IX, page
203.) On natural right-field hitters, play over
toward the foul line — as hits in that territory are
generally good for two bases. On all other bat-
ters, take your regular position — playing as far
outside of the diamond as possible (that is, of
course, when you are not holding the runner on
the base).

The first-baseman should perfect himself in
handling batted ground balls; he should be sure
at least to get his body in front of the ball and
block it — trusting to be able to pick the ball up
and beat the runner to the base — or that the
pitcher will run over and cover first. On slow
balls, he should run in swiftly, get the ball (with
one hand if necessary), whirl, and snap it to first —
always remembering to tell the pitcher to take

58 BASEBALL

first base. If the ball is one which both the pitcher
and first-baseman try for — of course the second-
baseman should go to first base — short-stop nat-
urally swinging over to cover second base, there
being nothing else for him to do. The first-base-
man should try to get all fly balls in his vicinity —
especially those between him and the catcher — as
he gets a better start after the ball, knowing just
where it is, while the catcher pauses momentarily
to locate it. (This is especially true if the sun is
in the catcher's eyes.) It is generally safer for
the first-baseman to take fly balls that come down
on his side of the diamond near the pitcher. It
is well not to go over very far toward the second-
baseman — as he generally has an easy time cover-
ing ground on fly balls; but the first-baseman
should start fast and try for all pop-flies out in
right field behind him. (See "Second-Baseman"
on fly balls.)

In taking your position in the field, always be
sure that the base is inside the diamond, for if any
part of it is hit while on foul ground, the hit is fair .

Backing up Bases

When the ball is being thrown home from the
outfield, the first baseman can play in either of
the two ways indicated in Diagram II, page 199.
He should get back of the catcher at a distance of

THE FIRST-BASEMAN 59

forty feet — alert and ready to stop overthrows,
etc. — returning the ball to the infield wherever the
play demands it or take a position in the infield.
(See Diagrams IV, V, VI and VII, pages 200-202.)

Runner on First Base

When there is a runner on first base only, the
first-baseman should always remain on his base
to prevent the runner from getting a large lead.
(There is one exception to this rule, viz.: In the
last inning, if his side is three or more runs ahead,
the first-baseman should leave his base and play
back, paying attention only to the batter, as the
one run won't affect the score materially.)

Stand over the base, feet astride, giving the
runner room to slide back to the base behind your
right foot. Be on the alert for a throw from the
pitcher. Always watch the ball.

None out. Be ready to handle a bunted ball.
(The batter may bunt according to Team Plays 19
ay b, c.)

If the ball is bunted, go in toward the batter
with all possible speed. Start the instant you
divine that he will bunt. (By watching closely
the arm motions of the batter, you can frequently
tell when he is about to bunt.) If it is a slow
bunt, play the ball to first base, as it will be im-
possible to retire the runner at second. But if it

6o BASEBALL

is a ball that comes at you rather fast, whirl and
head the man off at second.

On balls other than bunts, also use your judg-
ment in playing the ball. If you think that you
have time to get the runner at second, throw the
ball there — otherwise play it to first base. (A
word from one of your own players will often
help you in deciding this play.) Always keep
in mind the speed of the batter and base-run-
ner.

One out. Hold the runner close to the base to
prevent him from getting a start. Here he may
be going to attempt to steal, or work the hit-and-
run play. You may, therefore, expect frequent
throws from the pitcher, who should be working
to break up any contemplated play.

As the pitcher delivers the ball to the batter,
go out into the diamond to cover more ground.
It is necessary to remain on the base only as long
as the pitcher might throw there; after that,
leave the base and go out where you can be of
service fielding the ball.

When the ball is hit to you, if possible, retire
the runner going to second base (starting a double
play); then go back to your base to complete the
play. (The act of making the double play suc-
cessfully requires great speed and accuracy;
therefore, you should spend much time in prac-

THE FIRST-BASEMAN 6i

tising it.) If the runner going to second is out
of the question, retire the runner at first — either
by playing him yourself or by tossing the ball
to the pitcher or second-baseman, who may be
covering the base.

Whenever the base-runner starts to steal, the
first-baseman should call out to his catcher,
"There he goes!'* (or some other similar direc-
tion). This will enable the catcher to keep his eye
on second base while throwing — instead of being
compelled to watch the runner.

Two out. Hold the runner up; and play to re-
tire the batter at first base.

Runners on First and Second

See Team Play 13.

When one is out, play half your regular distance
back of, and away from, your base. The fact
that you do this will enable you to cover more
ground and will not permit the runner to take
any larger lead than if you were on the base.
If he persists in taking a large lead, you can fre-
quently retire him by a throw from the catcher.
(See Team Play 17.)

When two are out, leave your base, and play
your regular distance back — ^just as though there
were no runner on base. The pitcher will cover
first base on all balls hit to you. The fact that

62 BASEBALL

second base is occupied prevents the base-runner
from stealing. (As a rule, they won't attempt a
double steal when two are out.) If the runner
takes a large lead, drive him back by the use of
Team Play 17.

Runners on First, Second, and Third
See Team Plays i, 2, 3, 4, 5.

Runners on First and Third
See Team Plays 6, 7, 8, 9.

Runners on Second and Third ^
See Team Plays 10 and 11.

Runner on Third

See Team Play 12.

Always, as the hatter takes his position in the
boXy decide what you will do with the ball if it is hit
to you!

THE SECOND-BASEMAN
General Fielding Hints

Your regular position should be as far back and
away from second base as your speed and general
ability will permit. This position should also be
determined in connection with the batter's speed,
hitting ability, etc. (See Diagrams IX, X, and
XI, pages 203 and 204.)

On all fly balls hit into your territory, start
for them immediately, calling out as you start
(this will prevent collisions with other fielders).
Learn by practice how much ground you can
cover toward centre field, right field, and behind
the first-baseman toward the foul-line.

Always judge the wind! If it is blowing out
with the ball, your opportunity of catching the
ball is decreased; while if it is blowing in from the
outfield, against the ball, and, as it were, holding
the ball up, you will be greatly assisted in covering
ground and catching the ball. Remember, there-
fore, to ascertain when you take your position on
the field just how the wind blows. Of course,

04 BASEBALL

nothing can be done with that "thorn in the side,"
The Texas Leaguer — (a Httle fly ball just out of
reach of both outfielders and infielders).

On a base-hit to right field, don't chase the ball
out into the field — the right-fielder can handle it;
go to second base and receive the ball from the
fielder. (The short-stop should back you up on
this play.) On a base-hit to left field, back up
the short-stop, who covers second on the throw-in.

With a runner on second base, when base-hits
are made to the outfield, play as directed in
Diagrams II and III, pages 199 and 200.

On long hits to right field for two or more bases,
in which it is necessary to relay the ball in, go out
into the field and back up the fielder who is to
"make the throw" into the diamond. Coach
this man where to throw upon receiving the ball.
With your assistance he can turn and throw with-
out a second's loss — and this often means the pre-
venting of runs being made. (Study Diagrams
VI and VII, pages 201 and 202.)

On all slow hits, go in fast, and throw to first
base underhanded ; for by straightening up to
throw you lose time, and the runner may beat
your throw to first base — especially if he is a fast
runner or left-handed batter. (Left-handed bat-
ters always get away from the plate faster than
right-handed men.) On some left-handed batters

THE SECONI>-BASEMAN 65

— fast men — you will be compelled to play in
closer to protect against just such a play. Since,
by studying the batter, you will know his speed
and peculiarities, your own judgment will help
you a great deal here.

Hard-hit halls should be blocked or "knocked
down." Never let the fumbling of such a ball
worry you, for the ball generally hits your hands
before the runner is fifteen feet from the plate.
Recover the ball as quickly as possible and throw
it to first by a sharp, underhanded snap. Never
take your eye of a fumbled hall; get it securely in
the hand before attempting to throw it. In
other words, dorit look at the hase-runner while try-
ing to pick up the hall. If you do, you will find
yourself making three or four attempts to get
hold of it — and by that time the runner will be
over first base. As you can do nothing without
the ball, remember to keep your eyes on it until
you have it in your hand.

On hits that you field close to first hase, toss or
pitch the ball to the first-baseman; he can handle
this kind of a ball better than one snapped hard
at him. When the pitcher is covering first base,
and you have fielded the ball near him, toss the
ball to him in the same way — for he will be com-
pelled to run, catch the ball, and touch the base
all at the same time. The conditions of making

66 BASEBALL

these plays should be governed by the amount of
time at your disposal, the speed of the ball and
runner, etc.

Getting the Catcher's Signals

Be sure to understand and get the catcher's
signals (see catcher's signals. Team Play 29),
as they will help you in covering ground intelli-
gently. For instance: let us assume that the
catcher's signal to the pitcher for a fast ball is
one finger, and for a curve two fingers — and
that there is a right-handed batter who is a free
hitter at the plate. Now, suppose you are playing
your regular position, and you see the catcher
put down one finger — you know it calls for a fast
ball — and this ball will very probably be hit in
your direction. If, however, on this play the
batter is a certain left-field hitter, play a little
closer to second base — all the while ready to
cover ground to your left also. And on a free
hitter, if the catcher should put down two fingers
(calling for a curve) the ball will more than likely
be hit to the short-stop. When there is a left-
handed batter at the plate, of course these con-
ditions of play would be just reversed: upon
getting the catcher's signals, reverse them, i, e.,
the curved ball would probably be hit in your
direction, and the fast ball to the left-field side.

THE SECOND-BASEMAN ^^

Yet be ready to cover ground toward second base
on the fast-ball signal. After you have got the
catcher's signal, do not shift your position before
the ball is pitched, as that would inform the bats-
man of the play; you may expect a dead right-
field hitter to hit nearly all balls in your direction.

Passing the Catcher's Signals to the
Outfield

The second-baseman, by getting the catcher's
signals, can not only increase his own efficiency
in covering ground but can assist the outfielders
by passing these same signals out to them. It is
easy for the second-baseman to get the catcher's
signs (signals), but it is impossible for the out-
fielders to get them; therefore the second-base-
man should pass the signals out to the fielders, so
that they can know whether a curve or a fast ball
is being pitched.

A simple method of doing this may clarify the
point: when you see the fast ball (one finger)
called by the catcher, place the right hand be-
hind your back with the hand closed; when the
curved ball has been called (two fingers) place
the right hand behind your back — open. The
same hand should be used in giving these signals,
otherwise the opposing batsmen will soon be able
to distinguish between signals — and will know

68 BASEBALL

what ball is coming each time. By playing ac-
cording to signals in this way, both the infield
and outfield can cover more ground — ^with a
greater degree of certainty.

Protecting the Weak Side

If a fielder is weak on covering ground, either to
the right or left side, he should protect that side,
e, g.y if a second-baseman has difficulty fielding
balls on his right, he should play a little toward
second base. However, try for every hit ball that
comes your way — and try hard — don't be afraid of
making errors. All good fielders (ground coverers)
make errors, because they "go after everything
in sight" — and in so doing they knock down many
balls that would have meant runs. Accustom
yourself to using the gloved hand freely, but never
use one hand to stop or catch a ball if tzvo can be
used to do the same work.

When There Is a Runner on First Base and
None Out

In this case the batter may bunt the ball. (See
Team Plays ig a, b, c.) The second-baseman, if
he assumes that the batter will bunt, should take
his position a few paces back of the base-line and
directly between the first-baseman and pitcher.
From this point he can recover any hard-bunted

THE SECOND-BASEMAN 69

balls that go between the first-baseman and
pitcher. In this position, however (a fast ball
having been called for), if, when you are expecting
the batter to bunt, he should switch the play to a
hit and run, and bunt the ball past the pitcher on
the short-stop side, it is doubtful whether either
runner could be retired. The short-stop on this
play will be going over to cover second base, and
when the ball is hit in his direction will pull up
and try to get the ball — then it is up to you at
least to try to cover second. The batter and
base-runner are likely to work a "hit-and-run
play" when no one is out; be on the alert. (See
Team Play 22.)

Another play for the second-baseman to make
is that of covering first base — from the position
mentioned above — to receive the ball from the
first-baseman, who goes in toward the plate to
cover bunts. Again, on this play, if the ball is re-
covered by the pitcher, it will be difficult for the
first-baseman to get back to the base; therefore,
the second-baseman should take first. The third-
baseman may sometimes handle a bunt and throw
the ball to first before the first-baseman can get
back; here again the second-baseman takes first.
Of course, if the first-baseman can get back in time
to take the ball, let him do so. In these plays do
not leave your position until the ball has been hit.

70 BASEBALL

Frequently second-basemen start to cover first
base too soon in this play — leaving the position
open through which the ball, after being bunted
hard past the pitcher, will roll — allowing both
men to be safe. The same instructions about
leaving your position should apply when the
opposing team is making the hit-and-run play
or when a man is stealing second. Try not to
leave your position to cover second until the hall is
in the catcher s hands. By studying and playing
according to the catcher's signals, knowing the
batter, and playing accordingly, you should never
be caught napping.

Another play that the second-baseman can
make, with a man on first and nobody out, is the
following (Team Play i8): As the first-baseman
goes in toward home to cover the bunt, naturally
the base is left unguarded — and the runner will
play away ofF. By a prearranged signal with the
catcher (who calls a waste ball from the pitcher),
the second-baseman can slip over behind the base-
runner and take the throw from the catcher — to
retire the runner — since the latter will be leaning
toward second if expecting the bunt.

Making the Double Play

One of the most important functions of the
short-stop and second-baseman is that of making

THE SECOND-BASEMAN 71

the double play at second and first. The play-
requires the utmost swiftness of action, and ability
to catch and throw the ball under the most dif-
ficult conditions. The short-stop and second-
baseman should continually practise making this
play with all possible speed. It is the throw from
second to first that demands the greatest speed —
since the batter is allowed considerable time, while
the ball is being caught and thrown to second.
Therefore, practise catching the ball, tagging the
base, and throwing to first with a runner going to
second.

A Runner on First Base

One out. In this case, the second-baseman should
be ready to cover second base on an attempted
** steal." Now the question comes up again, "who
will cover second base, the second-baseman or
the short-stop ^ " And again the catcher's sig-
nals and a knowledge of the batter come to your
assistance. On all "free hitters" (batters who are
likely to hit into any field), and on all batters
whose hitting tendencies you do not know, you
should cover second to take the throw according
to what ball is pitched to the batter. When, on
a right-handed batter, you see the signal for the
fast ball — you remain in your position, because
that kind of a ball is very apt to be hit in your

72 BASEBALL

direction (and the short-stop will cover second).
The short-stop would cover second also on all
waste balls (pitch-outs) to a right-handed batter.
If on this same batter (right-handed) the curved
ball is called, the second-baseman should cover
the base to retire the runner, while the short-
stop remains in his position to protect that side
of the diamond, since the curved ball will gen-
erally be hit to left field.

But the above conditions change somewhat
when the batter is known to be a dead left-field
hitter — that is, one who pulls every ball (or
nearly every one) around into left field. Against
this batter, the second -baseman would cover
second base on all pitched balls. If the pitcher's
control enables him, by keeping the ball away
from the batter, to make the batter hit into his
weak field — the second-baseman should not only
be ready to cover second base if the runner steals,
but to field the ball if it is hit into his territory.
Therefore, know and study your pitchers and
opposing batsmen.

On a left-handed batter, the conditions change
again. If he is a free hitter play him just the
reverse on the catcher's signals — when the man
is stealing second. For example, on the fast-ball
signal you (second-baseman) would cover second
to take the throw. On the curved-ball signal,

THE SECOND-BASEMAN 73

the second-baseman would remain in his position
while the short-stop covered second.

If the batter is a dead right-field hitter — the
short-stop should cover second on all thrown
balls. It is quite plain from the above that there
should be no guesswork about covering second
base; it is all done according to signals and a
knowledge of the batters. Of course there will
be times when the ball is hit exactly contrary to
expectations — but the above system is in accor-
dance with the laws of probability — and will be
found to be reliable.

With first occupied and a steal expected, play
a few paces nearer second to enable you to receive
the ball from the catcher. On pitch-out signs —
when you are to cover, you should be able to leave
your position ahead of time to take the throw.
But under all other conditions you must keep
your position as long as possible.

Watching for the drag-hit. (This hit is so called
because the batter — usually a fast left-hander —
makes more than a bunt of the hit, giving it just
enough force to get it past the pitcher — toward
the second-baseman.) If this ball is successfully
placed toward the second-baseman, and if the
latter is playing a deep position, the runner may
beat the ball to first base. Therefore, when play-
ing against a batter who is known to make that

74 BASEBALL

play, move in toward the base-line far enough
to command the situation — ^judging the batter's
speed and your own ability to come in and shoot
the ball underhanded to first base.

Position of Baseman's Feet in Covering
Second Base

In taking throws from the catcher while a man
is stealing do not worry about the position of
your feet; that should be the last consideration.
The first and most important thing is to get the
ball. If the throw is perfect, permitting you to
place yourself so that the runner must slide to
you — all well and good; but remember that po-
sition is nothing if you don't have the ball.

A great deal of practice is necessary to enable a
second-baseman (or short-stop) to be able to put
the runner out, stealing. Be sure to get the ball
firsty using two hands when possible — then tag
the runner. Catch the ball and sweep it down on
the runner — all in one motion; touch the runner
lightly with the ball — if you try to pound him
with it, the chances are that you will drop the
ball. Do not let the runner coming at you make
you nervous, don't worry about his spikes — watch
the ball — and out of the corner of your eye you can
see the runner well enough to enable you to play
correctly. When the play is at all close, put the

THE SECOND-BASEMAN 75

ball speedily down in front of the base, thus com-
peUing the runner to slide into it.

Runner on First Base

Two out. Play back well, but a little nearer
second base. However, always play according to
the batter's habit of hitting — and the catcher's
signals. With the knowledge thus gained, and
knowing that with two out the runner will very
probably attempt to steal (unless he is three or
four runs behind), you may greatly facilitate
matters.

Runners on First and Second

None out. Here again you must watch for the
sacrifice bunt — especially if the opposing club
wants one or two runs badly. (Read Team Plays
^9/j ^> ^> ^0 Play as directed with first occupied
and none out — a little nearer first base, where you
can cover first base if the first-baseman goes in to
get the bunt. Always study the hitter's motion
with his bat — he will generally reveal to you by
some little motion the fact that he will bunt.
Then, as soon as you see that he intends to bunt,
start quickly for the ball — but be ready to stop
and cover first if the ball can be handled by the
first-baseman or pitcher. Three men around the

76 BASEBALL

ball and nobody covering the base is a common
condition when the ball is hit rather slowly be-
tween first and second bases. So cover first base
if the other men can field the ball.

One out. Hold the runner on second base as
closely as possible; do not let him take a big lead.
Run toward second base as though to catch the
ball thrown there by the pitcher. But do not
leave your position while the {.itcher is delivering
the ball to the batter — the ball might be hit
through your territory. By a prearranged signal
with the pitcher, you can sometimes catch the
runner napping. (See Team Play 14.) Play your
usual position, according to who is batting — always
being on the alert for fast left-handed batters.
Watch the catcher's signals. If, as the ball is hit
hard at you, you field it cleanly, throw it to second
base; hut if you fumble, throw to first base. In
tossing or throwing the ball to the short-stop on
double plays, throw it so that the fielder receives
it on the inside of the base (within the diamond);
he can then throw unobstructed to first. And in
attempting a double play, be sure to retire the
first man, anyway!

If, as the hit-and-run is being played, the ball
is hit to your left, play it to first base; for the
runner will have got such a start off first that it
will be difl&cult to catch him at second. Slow

THE SECOND-BASEMAN 77

balls should be thrown to first base, as doubles
are out of the question.

If the ball is hit at you in such a way that you
catch it ahead of the runner on first (who will be
on his way to second) touch him, and throw to
first base, making a double play. If the runner
should stop between the bases, preventing you
from touching him, run him back toward first,
then throw to first, retiring the batter, and leav-
ing the runner to be caught between first and
second.

Whenever you have a man caught between
bases, always drive him back toward the base
from which he came. If he is between first and
second, make the put-out at first. Do not per-
mit the base-runner to take a big lead off the base.

Runner on Second

None out. Play in for the sacrifice bunt (if you
calculate that he will attempt it). (See Team
Plays ig d and e.) If the ball be hit to you, the
play is generally to retire the runner at first.

One out. The runner is very apt to steal third,
so help the short-stop to keep him close to the
base by feinting to take the ball from the pitcher.
Be careful, however, of leaving your position open,
especially if the batter be a right-field hitter.
Occasionally it is advisable, if the runner plays

78 BASEBALL

ofF a great distance, to work a signal with the
pitcher (through the catcher) and catch the
runner off the base. (See Team Play 14.) Study
your batter.

Two out. Play deep — and get the batter at first
base — always ! For conditions of play with:

Man on third base, see Team Play 12.

Man on second and third bases, see Team Plays
10 and II.

Man on first, second, and third bases, see Team
Plays I, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

Man on first and third bases, see Team Plays
6, 7, 8, and 9.

Be prepared for the double steal — that is, the
man on third scoring while the man on first goes
to second. In order to prevent the opponents
from making this play successfully the second-
baseman should cut in ten or fifteen feet in front
of second base — and if the man is going home
intercept the ball and throw it home; if he is not
going home, let the ball go to short-stop who is
covering second. On this play the second-base-
man has everything in front of him — he can see
the ball and the runner on third. Sometimes
the man at third will make a feint to go home —
stopping when about fifteen feet off the base.
In this case the second-baseman can snap the ball
to third, catching the runner ofF the base.

THE SECOND-BASEMAN 79

If the ball thrown by the catcher is thrown at
such a height that, in your opinion, it will not go to
second, catch it whether the man starts from third
or not — as the low throw will hit the ground and
probably get away from the short-stop — letting
the man score from third — and placing the runner
from first on third. By practising this play, you
will soon become able to judge whether the ball
will carry to second or not.

The breaking up of this "double steal" can be
accomplished best when the "pitch-out" (waste-
ball) signal is given. Then the positions may be
left open with less danger of being hit through.

When no "pitch-out" sign is given— the^second-
baseman (and short-stop) should play a bit nearer
the base and the line — not leaving this position
until the ball is either hit or in the catcher's
hands.

Always, as the hatter takes his position in the box,
you should decide what you will do with the hall if it
is hit to you.

THE SHORT-STOP

Many points relative to the short-stop have
been covered in the chapter on the second-base-
man— they will be referred to in this chapter.

The first thing you should do when you arrive
on the field before a game is to note how the
wind is blowing. The wind will at times enable
you to catch many a fly ball that you would not
even try for ordinarily. Play the ball in a high
wind according to the same instructions given to
the second-baseman on fly ball.

Learn to "get the ball away" fast and true —
overhanded when you have time (on a hard-hit
ball) and underhanded when you are hurried.
Proficiency in this latter throw, especially to first
base, requires diligent practice.

Learn to use your gloved hand alone on balls
that you see it is impossible to get two hands on.
Don't be afraid of errors. Try for everything —
many a game has been saved by a "wild lunge,"
as it is called — whereby a player has actually
hurled himself at a ball, catching it almost mirac-
ulously.

THE SHORT-STOP 8i

The majority of infielders have what is called
a weak side; that is, there is one side, right or
left, on which it is difficult for them to cover
ground successfully. Players can overcome this
weakness somewhat by having the ball batted
on their weak side constantly in practice. (Young
players should pay particular attention to devel-
oping their ability to cover ground on both sides.)

Make a study of the batters. Note what kinds
of balls they hit, where they generally hit — ^whether
they are free hitters, or whether they are dead
right or left field hitters. Remember the speed
of the various players — this will enable you to
regulate the speed with which you must make
your plays. Little things are happening con-
stantly, which, if remembered, will give you a
very valuable knowledge of the players whom
you are to meet day after day.

Cover third on all "hit-and-run" plays when
the third-baseman goes in for batted or bunted
balls. You can be of no use remaining in your
position when the ball is bunted or hit toward
third. So either back up the play (on a ball that
you can recover if the third-baseman misses it)
or cover third. Don't worry about second — as
the second-baseman naturally swings around to
cover that base when the ball is hit to your side
of the diamond. When you attempt anything

82 BASEBALL

in the way of fielding get started quickly — it
is the fractions of seconds in time that make worlds
of difference in baseball.

When you have a runner caught between second
and third, run him back to second and make the
put-out there — in fact, always run a base-runner
back to the base from which he came, trying to have
him put out at that base. If he is not put out, he
will at least have been prevented from getting the
extra base. Start quickly and get in front of
hard -hit balls; learn to play them with your
hands, not with your feet or body — this can be
accomplished only by judging the bounds. (Get
into the habit of catching grounders on good
bounds — that is, playing the ball — otherwise "the
ball plays you.") When you have handled the
ball cleanly there will be little difficulty in throw-
ing the man out at first; but if you fumble the
ball, you must be speedy in getting the ball to
first to retire the man. Remember that you must
play faster on a left-handed batter than on a
right-handed one.

Come in rapidly on all balls that are hit
slowly in your territory; play them with all pos-
sible speed — using the underhanded throw. Fre-
quently you will be compelled to play the slow
ball with the bare hand, picking it up and throw-
ing it while on the dead run; this should be prac-

THE SHORT-STOP 83

tised until it is not difficult to do. It is well in
practice to try all ways of catching the ball. But
in a game never use one hand when you can get
both on the ball.

Go after all fly balls, learning by constant try-
ing how far you can go for them. When you go
after a ball and see that you can get it — avoid
collisions by calling loudly: "Mine!"

Go after everything ! Don't be afraid of mak-
ing errors. (A manager, captain, or coach can al-
ways tell whether or not a man is trying hard.)

In fielding your position, protect your weak side
(see instruction to second-baseman); that is, so
divide up your territory as to leave the larger part
on your strong side.

Learn to "get the ball away from you" with
the least possible delay. Practise catching and
throwing with one motion. A ball that travels
with great speed, but thrown with a long, slow
motion, is not nearly so effective as a slower ball
thrown with a speedy motion.

Be ready to cover second base, if the ball is hit
on the first-base side of the diamond.

Play as deeply as possible, that is, as far as
you can back of the base-line; this will enable you
to cover a great deal of ground on hard-hit balls.
The condition of your arm and the speed of the
runner should regulate this distance.

84 BASEBALL

When the ball is hit past the left-fielder — go out
into left field (as the centre-fielder crosses over to
help the left-fielder relay the ball in) and coach
outfielder where to throw the ball. The second-
baseman will cover second base. (See Diagrams
IV and V, pages 200 and 201; also study Dia-
grams II, III, VI, and VII, pages 199, 200, 201,
and 202.)

Play your position according to the individual
batters — and according to the kind of balls pitched.
(See Second-Baseman — Getting the Catcher's Sig-
nals.) You must play with the greatest possible
speed on fast left-handed batters. Always be on
the alert to pass your signals to the outfield.
(See Second-Baseman — Passing Catcher's Signals
to Outfield.)

In throwing or tossing the ball to second base
at the beginning of a double play, throw the ball
on the inside of the base, so that the second-base-
man will have a better opportunity of throwing
to first base. And remember that if you are
close to second (but can't make the double your-
self) toss the ball to second rather than throw it
— make your motion speedy — keeping the ball
high — thus giving the second-baseman time to
cover the base and catch the ball.

Back up second base on balls thrown to second
from right field (letting second-baseman cover the

THE SHORT-STOP 85

ball); cover second base on balls thrown from left
field to the base (second-baseman backing you up)
— these directions apply only when, with no run-
ner on base, a single has been hit to the outfield.
If, with nobody on base, as you fumble the
ball you see that you cannot put the runner out
at first, HOLD THE BALL. It IS absolutely useless
and sometimes dangerous to throw when you see
that the man cannot be retired.

Runner on First Base

See directions to second-baseman under the
same conditions.

Cover second base according to what ball is
pitched — and according to the batter — whether
he is left or right handed, etc. With a runner on
first base, if a base-hit is made to right field or
right centre field, get in line with the throw from
the fielder to third base. Stand about thirty feet
in front of the third-baseman. The ball will be
thrown to third base to cut off the runner, who
will probably try to go from first base to third
on the hit. Be ready to catch the ball if the
third-baseman should tell you to (he will do so if
he sees that the runner cannot be caught at third
base), and play it to second to retire the batter,
who, on the throw-in will be trying for that base.

If (when it is up to you to cover second base)

86 BASEBALL

you see the runner stealing, do not leave your
position immediately — you can hesitate and still
be able to reach second ahead of the runner.

Be on the alert for push-hits (or drag-hits), and
hit-and-run plays. (See Team Plays 21 and 22 a.

When the ball is hit to your right in such a
way that after you have fielded it you see
that you can't get the man at second or first,
feint to throw to first, and throw to second (you
might get the runner as he steps over the base).

Always be on the alert for a steal or hit-and-
run; be ready to cover second according to the ball
called by the catcher. (See instructions to second-
baseman on same play.)

Two out. Play back so as to cover ground,
making the put-out at the easiest base. Cover
second base according to signals in case the runner
steals.

Runner on Second Base

When second base is occupied, if you fumble a
hit ball and see that you cannot retire the runner
at first, make a blufF to throw to first base, whirl
and throw quickly to third — the runner from
second to third will often be rounding that base
to get a lead for home, and your throw may
catch him.

On a ball that is hit between short-stop and

THE SHORT-STOP 87

third, throw the man out at third, especially on
a ball that would be very difficult to throw to
first.

If the runner on second base is needed by his
side to tie the score or win, then, when it is pos-
sible, throw him out at third.

When there is a runner on second base, it is
the short-stop's duty to prevent that runner from
getting a large lead ofF the base. By a pre-
arranged signal with the pitcher (see Team Play
14), such as a nod of the head, a motion of the
hand, etc., he should start for second, as the
pitcher wheels and throws there. At other times,
without using the signal with the pitcher, he
should start back to second merely to get the
runner to do the same (at the same time the
pitcher throws to the batter as the runner is go-
ing back to second — his lead toward third, of
course, being cut down considerably). The short-
stop should be careful, in running the man back
to second, not to leave his own position open for
the batter to hit through. Don't leave your po-
sition when the pitcher is delivering the ball.
For position of feet, catching ball, etc., see Posi-
tion of Baseman's Feet — The Second-Baseman.

None out. (Read Team Plays 19 J, e.)

Very frequently the bunt is played here. A
successful method of breaking up the play is for
you to run the man back to second (leaving your

88 BASEBALL

position open) — the pitcher puts a good ball over
to the batter to bunt — then the pitcher and first-
baseman run in and field the ball to third, catch-
ing the man there, for you will have held him up
long enough to allow the play to go through.
(See Team Play 15.)

One out. On all balls hit to you, unless the run-
ner can be retired easily at third, play the hall to
first base. Then there will be a man on third —
hut two out. And if the man should make third
safely as you throw there, there will result the
very undesirable situation of a man on first and
third — with only one out.

Hold the runner as close to second as you can
without leaving too much space open for a left-
field hitter to hit through. This will help to pre-
vent stolen bases and hit-and-run plays. When
the runner refuses to be driven back to the base,
use the signal (a slight nod or any hand sign)
with the pitcher and catch the runner napping.
(See Team Play 14.)

Two out. Unless you are several runs ahead,
hold the runner on the base and throw the bat-
ter out at first.

Runners on First and Second

See Team Play 13.

For information as to what to expect the batter
to do, see Team Plays 19 /, g, h, i.

THE SHORT-STOP 89

In case of a double steal — both men stealing —
short-stop should cover second in accordance with
the usual method of signals.

Runner on Third

The position to be taken and the style of play
to be followed here depend upon the score and the
stage of the game. For instructions whether to
play in and retire the runner at home, or play
back, see Team Play 12.

Whenever you are playing back, with a runner
on third, disregard that runner on third, and play
for the batter.

Runners on Second and Third
See Team Plays 10 and 11.

Runners on First, Second, and Third

See Team Plays i, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

Runners on First and Third

See Team Plays 6, 7, 8, and 9.

Here the runners may attempt what is called
"a d9uble steal." In this play both runners
attempt to advance a base.

Before taking part in breaking up this play, if,
after considering the batter and the catcher's
signals, you think the ball will be hit in your

90 BASEBALL

direction, delay as long as possible before leav-
ing your position to cover second base — otherwise
leave as soon as the ball is on the way to the batter.

Observing the above instructions, you should
cover second base if the runner on first is stealing.
The second-baseman will cut in behind the pitcher
and, if the runner on third base starts for home,
will intercept the ball and throw it home. If the
runner remains on third, the second-baseman will
let the ball go to second base; then you are to
catch the ball and retire the runner coming from
first base. But be on the alert to prevent the
runner on third from scoring while you are going
after the runner at second. On this play you must
watch the ball; if the second-baseman lets it go
to you, catch it and tag the runner, but be quick
about it, lest the man score from third. If the
man from first stops before arriving at second,
run him back toward first base — all the while
watching the man on third — make the put-out at
first base. If the man starts home from third,
of course play him. (Practise receiving the ball
on the run.)

Always as the hatter takes his position in the box,
you should decide what you will do with the hall if it
is hit to you.

THE THIRD-BASEMAN

General Instructions for the Third-
Baseman

Protect your weak side — that is, if it is hard
for you to catch balls that are hit on one side,
move over slightly toward that side, so as to cover
the ground the more easily. Practise so as to
strengthen your weak side.

On all bunts or other hit balls which the pitcher
handles, get into the habit of dropping back to
your base — you will be useless standing in the
diamond if a runner is advancing to your base.

Go after all slow hits between you and the
short-stop. Since, on this kind of a ball, you will
be running toward first base, you can throw the
batter out at first base much easier than the
short-stop can — for he will be running away from
first and consequently in a bad position to throw.
But be careful about attempting to handle hard--
hit balls which are between you and the short-
stop. You will knock this kind of a ball away
from you, and out of the reach of the short-stop,

92 BASEBALL

when ordinarily he could handle the ball easily.
By constant practice you will learn how much
ground you can safely cover on fast balls. Always
be ready to receive the ball from the catcher —
going back to your base as the ball hits the
catcher's glove.

The distance which you should play off the
base must be determined by your speed and
abihty to cover ground. A safe distance is about
three paces — more if you can play it safely.
Always play so as to prevent a runner from
getting a big lead toward home.

The Squeeze Play

See Team Play 23.

It is impossible for you or any other infielder
to break up the squeeze play if the ball is hit on
the ground; but you can prevent two men from
scoring by keeping your head, doing a little think-
ing, and acting accordingly. When only third
base is occupied and the squeeze play is worked
successfully, your play is to throw the ball to
first base, as the runner from third will have too
big a lead off the base to be caught at home. But,
if there is a runner on second and third, and, on
the squeeze play, the ball is bunted to you, you
should make a sharp motion as though to throw
to first base, but hold the ball and catch the man

THE THIRD-BASEMAN 93

who was leading off second when the play began
and by this time will be rounding third base. If
this second man plays the game rightly, he will
have taken a big lead off second and, being very
near third when the ball is bunted, will attempt to
score on your throw to first. You can tell whether
the man on second is in this play if he gets a big
running start when the pitcher winds up.

Handling Fly Balls

For suggestions on playing according to the
wind, etc., see directions to the second-baseman
on this subject.

No Runners on Base

-. Play the batter — that is, play according to who
the batter is. If you know him to be a fast man
and one who bunts, play in for him — that is, a
few feet inside the base-Hne. If he is either slow,
or a man who seldom bunts, play back of the base-
line a few paces.

Never play in close for a batter who has two
strikes; he will seldom attempt to bunt.

Learn to diagnose a batter^s intention to bunt.
There is a distinct difference between the pre-
liminary motions of bunting and the preliminary
motions of hitting the ball. If you watch closely,
you will be able to tell when a batter will bunt —

94 BASEBALL

at least you will know just before he bunts — and
that will allow you time enough to take a few
steps toward him. By thus studying the batters
closely, you will be enabled to play a little deeper
than ordinarily, coming in fast when you see that
the batter will bunt. Of course, the deeper you
play the less chance there will be of having a ball
knocked past you.

Remember that, on all hard-hit balls (from a
right-handed batter) which you field cleanly, you
can throw the runner out at first by forty feet,
since he is thrown completely off his stride when
swinging at the ball, and is only ten feet from
home when you have the ball in your hand. So
steady up and make the play sure. But on all slow
balls which roll toward third, hurry in and snap
the ball to first by a sharp underhanded throw.
(Practise this throw constantly.) It is the left-
handed batter whom you must watch carefully.
As he hits the ball, he swings directly into his
stride toward first base. Therefore when he hits
the ball you must lose no time in getting it to first
base. Play in a little on left-handed batters.

Runner on First

Judge by the speed of the runner and the
velocity with which the ball comes to you whether
or not you can retire the runner at second base.

THE THIRD-BASEMAN 95

If the ball comes to you slowly, run in and, if
necessary, pick it up with one hand; snap it to
first base underhanded.

If, as you fumble a batted ball, you see that you
cannot even retire the batter, make a feint to first
base — then whirl and snap it to second. You
may be able to catch the runner at second as he
rounds that base preparatory to going to third
on your throw to first. When you have thrown
a batted ball to first base, hurry back to third to
cover it in case any other play comes up.

On all hit balls which the pitcher handles, drop
back to your base. (In other words, always cover
your base when you are not actually taking part
in some play in the diamond.)

When there is a runner on first base, if a base-
hit is made to right field — or right centre field —
the ball should be thrown by the outfielder to
third base to prevent the runner from going from
first to third. The short-stop should place him-
self in line with the thrown ball; and if the third-
baseman sees that the ball cannot reach third so
as to retire the runner, he should call to the
short-stop to intercept it — the short-stop can then
play it to second base. This play of the short-
stop's will often retire the batsman who will have
started for second base on the throw-in.

None out. Watch for the bunt or hit-and-

96 BASEBALL

run play. These are the plays which the batter
may attempt; therefore be ready for them.
(For information about the conditions in which a
batter may bunt, see Team Play 19.) A batter
will seldom bunt when he has two strikes.

One out. There is little or no danger of the
batter bunting, unless he is a very fast runner, so
the third-baseman can play pretty well back —
always, however, watching carefully for indication
of a bunt — and being ready to go in fast if the ball
is bunted.

If the ball is hit hard to you, you should throw
to second to enable the second-baseman to com-
plete a double play. (When throwing to second
in this case, throw the ball so that the second-
baseman can catch it inside of the diamond in
front of base. In this way you reduce the chances
of his throw to first being bothered by the runner
coming from first.) Make this throw to second
base good; you should at least retire the man at
second.

Two out. Pay little or no attention to the base-
runner. Get the batter at first base. The bat-
ter has the full ninety feet to run — ^while the man
on first base has a "lead" of from ten to twelve
feet or more.

THE THIRD-BASEMAN 97

Runners on First and Second

None out. Watch carefully for a bunt. If the
ball is bunted to you, there is hardly ever a
chance to retire the man at third or second — so
throw to first. (Read Team Play 19.) Be ready
to cover your base in case the pitcher is making
a play to get the runner at third. (See Team Play

IS-)

One out. Be ready to receive the ball on the
catcher's throw if the runner should attempt to
steal. Frequently when the runner is stealing
third, the batter will make a feint at bunting to
draw the third-baseman off the base. In this
case the third-baseman should take a step toward
the batter as he sees him attempt to bunt — but
he can stop immediately when the ball is missed by
the batter — and can cover third in plenty of time
to take the ball as the catcher throws. If it is
a bunt, the best you can do is to get the man at
first; if it is a blufF, there is only one thing for
you to do — cover your base.

On a hard-hit ball you have several ways of
working a double play:

(i) On a ball hit to your right, and caught near
the base, touch third and throw to first or second.

(2) On a ball hit directly at you, or to your
left, you can sometimes touch the runner coming

98 BASEBALL

from second and throw to second, retiring the
runner from first.

(3) On a ball hit directly at you — ^when it is
not possible to touch the runner going to third
throw to second; from there the double will be
completed at first base.

(4) On a line drive (which you catch) you can
play the ball to second or first.

These plays are simple enough; but in order
to play them right you should think them over as
the batsman takes his position at the plate, plan-
ning what you would do if the ball be hit to you.
Do all the thinking you can ahead of time.

Two out. It is generally safest to play the
batter, as he has the longest distance to travel.
But, of course, if the ball is fielded by you close
to the base, the easiest and safest thing for you
to do is to touch your base.

Runners on First, Second, and Third

None out or one out. If the batter is a hard
left-field hitter, it is well to play a few paces back
of the line. Whether or not to play deep and try
for a double play, letting the man on third score,
depends upon the score, the stage of the game,
etc. These conditions are dealt with in Team
Plays I, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

On a hard-hit ball, which you field cleanly, your

THE THIRD-BASEMAN 99

play would be to throw the ball home, retiring
the man on a force-out. (The catcher would then
throw the batter out at first.)

On a slow-hit ball, of course, you would try to
get the ball to first base ahead of the batter, im-
mediately going back to cover your own base to
receive the ball if it is returned to you by the first-
baseman.

Two out. If the ball is hit hard to you, touch
your base, forcing out the man from second
(there is no use throwing to another base unless
you are absolutely forced to do so); otherwise
throw to first base.

Runner on Second Base
(Study Diagram III, page 200.)

None out. Play as directed with man on first
and second and none out, always being ready for
a sacrifice bunt. But never leave your position
if the runner is stealing third until the ball is either
hit or missed by the batsman.

One out. Play as directed with man on first
and second and one out. Sometimes when the
ball is hit hard to you, the runner will stop be-
tween second and third — in this case run him
back to second — making the put-out at that base.
(A base-runner, when caught between bases, should
be run back toward the base from which he came.

100 BASEBALL

If a man is caught between home and third base,
he should be run back to third and put out there.)
In case the man at second hasn't started for third
(or if he is but a few steps from second) throw
the ball to first — you will have plenty of time to
take a quick look toward second before throwing
to first. If you fumble the ball and can't get the
man at first, make a bluff to throw to first, whirl
and throw to second; on this play the runner on
second will often start for third on your motion
to throw to first, and you can catch him off second.
Two out. Throw to first base to retire the
runner.

Runner on Third Base
(Study Diagram VIII, page 202.)

One or none out, (See Team Play 12.)
Two out. Throw to first base.

Runners on Second and Third Bases

One or none out. (See Team Plays 10 and 11.)
Two out. Throw to first base.

Runners on First, Second, and Third Bases

One or none out, (See Team Plays i, 2, 3, 4,
and 5.)

Two out. Throw to first base or make the
easiest force-out.

THE THIRD-BASEMAN ;•'•. , ' , loi

Runners on First and Third Bases

One or none out. (See Team Plays 6, 7, 8, and 9.)
Two out. Throw to first base.
AlwaySy as the batsman takes his position, decide
what you will do if the hall is hit to you.

VII

THE OUTFIELDER

The outfielder is expected to do more than be-
come adept at catching ordinary fly balls. He
should be able to cover all the ground in his sec-
tion on all sides of him. He should put in at
least two-thirds of his time catching flies that
are over his head. (If he cannot find anybody
to hit the ball over his head during practice while
he is in his usual position, he should come in
closer, so as to make the ordinary fly balls go over
his head.) What is needed is the practice of
turning and running back while the ball is in the
air, and stopping in time to turn again to catch
it. To be able to catch these long flies requires
a great deal of practice, but the ability is worth
much work — as this kind of a ball generally goes
for several bases when allowed to get away.

In catching fly balls, do not time the ball; that
is, do not so regulate your speed as to arrive at
the place where the ball will fall at just the mo-
ment when it lands. It is safer to run as fast as

I02

THE OUTFIELDER 103

possible, get directly under the ball, and wait for
it to come down. Get started fast after the ball,
as every fraction of a second lost means a great
deal. Practise getting started "with the crack of
the bat," that is, the instant that the ball is hit
start in its direction. After a great deal of prac-
tice, it will become natural and easy for you to
start in the right direction instantly. When you
know that you can get the ball, call out to the other
fielder Sy "Mine'' or "/ have it.'' The outfielder
should, when it is possible, catch fly balls in a posi-
tion from which it is easy to return the ball to
the infielder without loss of time. For instance,
if a player after catching a ball has to change the
position of his feet and shift his whole body be-
fore he can throw it, it is quite evident that he
will on occasion lose valuable time.

When the ball is being returned from the out-
field to the home-base to retire a runner, it should
reach the catcher on the first bound — landing ten
or fifteen feet in front of the plate. This prevents
all overthrows, and gives the catcher a better op-
portunity of handUng the ball. Lon^ throws from
right field to third base should reach the base on
the first bound — using a long bound to give the
baseman a chance to handle it. Fielders should
constantly practise throwing the ball to bases and
home-plate on the first bound. The ability to

104 BASEBALL

make this throw accurately and swiftly will pre-
vent many a stolen base.

Always warm your arm up well before going
into a game; then when you are called upon to
throw to the plate, you can do so without injur-
ing your arm. But don't wait until you go to
the outfield before warming up; while you are
waiting for your turn in batting practice, play
catch, and exercise your arm.

Figure out ahead of each play what you will do
with the ball if it is hit to you. This is the most
important rule in baseball (and appHes to each
one of the nine players on the field) and should
never be disregarded. By following this rule,
you will save time, and your plays will be correct;
if you wait until you get the ball before thinking
what to do with it, you will blunder, or play so
slowly that you lose the man.

Do not rob other fielders of balls that they can
easily catch. Many collisions between fielders
result from a desire to cover too much ground.
If the ball is hit between two fielders, both should
start instantly for it — the. man who can most
handily get it calling out, "Mine;" then the other
withdraws and lets him take it. When your
neighboring fielder is going back after a fly, you
can often assist him by calling out when you think
it is time for him to turn to catch the ball.

THE OUTFIELDER 105

Relaying The Ball to the Home-Plate

Left-fielder. If the ball is hit past the outfield
so that the left-fielder can best recover it, the
centre-fielder should cross over arid place himself
in a position to relay the ball to the infield, the
short-stop backing up the latter fielder and
directing him where to throw the ball (while
the second-baseman covers second base). (See
Diagram IV, page 200.)

Centre-fielder. If the ball is hit past the out-
field so that the centre-fielder can best recover
it, either the left-fielder or right-fielder who can
most handily do so should place himself in posi-
tion to relay the ball to the infield. Either the
short-stop or second-baseman should back up
and direct the play — leaving the other to cover
second. The position of the ball will determine
who is to assist in the relay and who is to cover
second base. (See Diagrams V and VI, page
201.)

Right-fielder. If the ball is hit past the outfield
so that the right-fielder can best recover it, the
centre-fielder should relay the ball to the infield —
the second-baseman backing up and directing the
play (while the short-stop covers second base).
(See Diagram VII, p. 202.)

(On long-hit balls, in which a relay is neces-

io6 BASEBALL

sary from one outfielder to another, throw the
ball at the fielder assisting you in the relay, not
over his head, or fifteen or twenty feet either side
of him.) Relaying the ball to the plate and in-
field should be practised constantly.

Backing Up Bases

Outfielders should always back up their respec-
tive bases; i. e., the left-fielder takes care of third
base; centre-fielder takes care of second base;
and the right-fielder first base. By backing up
a base is meant standing fifty feet back of the
base in line with the throw. In backing up a
base, an outfielder should start in instantly as
the ball is thrown toward that base; but in case,
for instance, that he sees a man stealing as the
pitcher is throwing to the batter, he should not
leave his position until the ball is either hit or in
the catcher's hands. (Otherwise the ball might
be hit into the place which he has left vacant.)

The left-fielder should back up third base on
all throws from the catcher to third, on all
throws from the right-fielder to third, and on
all throws from first to third. He can be ready
on throws from first to second. (See Diagrams
II, VI, VII, VIII, and XII, pages 199-204.)

The centre-fielder should back up second base
on all throws to that base from the pitcher and

THE OUTFIELDER 107

catcher. (See Diagrams II, III, VIII, and XII,
pages 199-204.)

The right-fielder should back up first base on
throws to first base from the catcher and pitcher —
and throws from third to first and on bunts thrown
to first — and he should back up second base, on
throws from third to second on doubles. (See
Diagrams I and VIII, pages 199 and 202.)

It is the duty of outfielders to come in fast
and back up the infield on all balls hit there (as
well as on all balls thrown to bases to retire run-
ners). (See Diagrams II and VIII, pages 199 and
202.) Run over close to your neighboring fielder
when he is catching a fly; then, if necessary, you
can coach him as to where to throw the ball.

If two fielders are going after a fly ball which
goes over their heads, one should chase the ball
while the other runs toward the diamond to help
relay the ball to the infield.

Always take the wind into consideration (its
direction and velocity) in catching flies and in
throwing the ball in to the infield. '

It is a good plan frequently to throw dirt or grass
up in the air to find out what you can about the
wind. When the wind is blowing in toward the
diamond, play a short field — that is, nearer than
usual to the infield. This kind of wind will hold
the ball up in the air, thus allowing you time to

io8 BASEBALL

go back and get fly balls, while by playing close
you can cut off many short outfield hits.

When the wind is blowing from the diamond
toward the outfield, play a deep field — that is,
a good, long distance from the infield (depending
on how strong the wind is and on the ability of
the batter), as the ball will be carried farther than
ordinarily.

When the wind is across the diamond, allow
for balls "carrying" with the wind. When the
sun is shining in your eyes, use smoked glasses,
or shade the eyes with the gloved hand (with
the arm extended). Do not look toward the sun
except when you have to — look at the grass or
anywhere but into the sun. Of course, you must
always know where the ball is and get ready
as the pitcher takes his position to pitch.

It is necessary that all fielders have plenty of
practice handhng balls that are hit on the ground,
as they are much harder to field than the aver-
age fly ball. Be sure to get your body directly
in front of the ball, especially if it is hard hit.
Be content with stopping this kind of a ball —
you will thereby prevent extra bases, which will
result if the ball gets past you. If, however, the
tying or winning run is on first or second base
and the ball is hit hard on the ground to the out-
fielder, he should play it like an infielder, that

THE OUTFIELDER 109

is, pick it up as cleanly and quickly as possible
and return it to the infield.

A very difficult ball to judge is a line drive —
that is, a fly ball that goes almost on a straight
line from the bat to the outfielder (without going
high into the air). Fielders should get a great
deal of practice on these balls, for if one is mis-
judged it usually results in a home run for the
batter.

Fielders should practise coming in fast on
ground balls, as the rapid handling of them often
means shutting off runs at the plate.

It should be uppermost in every fielder's mind
to get the ball away from him as rapidly as pos-
sible, but intelligently.

Batters who choke their bats (that is, who
shorten the hitting end of the bat) seldom hit
long drives; therefore play in for them.

Learn to play according to individual batters.
Remember where each batter hits, and shift
your position accordingly. Right-handed bat-
ters generally make their long hits in left field
and left centre field; left-handed batters make
theirs in right and right centre field. Generally,
on left-handed batters the left-fielder can play
in a little toward the infield, because these batters
seldom make long hits into left field. Of course
there are left-handed batters who hit equally well

no BASEBALL

in any direction; but this fact is readily dis-
covered and can be guarded against by the fielders.

When you are playing according to the battery
signals, do not disclose that fact by changing
your position before the pitcher delivers the ball
to the batter.

When there is one or none out and a man on
third, with one run needed to win, drop long
foul flies that are too far to be thrown to the
plate. The outfield, when their side is two or
more runs ahead, should not take desperate
chances of retiring the runner at home-plate; they
should return the ball to the infield in such a way
as to prevent the other runners from advancing.
For instance, if, while there are three men on the
bases and the side in the field is two or more
runs ahead, the ball is hit (either in the air or on
the ground) so that the fielder, upon recovering
it, sees that he cannot very readily throw home
in time to retire the runner there, he should throw
to third base; but if that base cannot be reached
by the ball in time to head off a runner, he should
throw to second base.

With the score standing as above, and a runner
on first and third, if a fly ball is caught by an out-
fielder, unless he is within easy throwing distance
of home-plate, he should throw to second to
hold the runner on first. If the ball is a base-hit,
he should throw to third base to prevent the

THE OUTFIELDER in

runner from going from first to third. If it is
more than a base-hit, it should be played accord-
ing to directions above for " Relaying the Ball to
the Home-Plate."

In all other conditions (with the score as above)
the runner who is going home should be disre-
garded, if he cannot be readily caught, and the
ball thrown to prevent the most advanced runner
from gaining another base.

When the score is close, toward the last of the
game, every eflFort should be made to retire the
runner going home. During the early part of
the game desperate chances should not be taken
to prevent a man from scoring, as this will usually
allow other runners to advance within scoring
distance.

In the last half of the last inning (one or none
out), when the runner on third base will win the
game if he scores, the outfielders should come
in toward the infield within easy throwing dis-
tance of home-plate. In this case a hit will
score the man anyway; a fly ball over the fielders'
heads will score the man (for even if caught it
cannot be returned in time to head the runner off
at home), whereas any fly ball caught can be
thrown home to catch the runner; and then, when
playing in this way, the outfielder may catch
many line drives which otherwise would be base-
hits.

VIII
BATTING

It IS entirely unnecessary to dwell upon the
importance of batting in baseball; suffice it to
say that if a man hopes ever to become a good
ball player he must bat well. To some players
batting comes naturally; by others it is learned
only with great patience and courage — determina-
tion. It is a very true saying that ** Batters are
born and not made/' That, of course, refers to
natural batters. There is no such a thing as de-
veloping good batters out of men who have poor
eyes for batting and bad form in swinging at the
ball. These men can be corrected as far as their
general faults go — their batting can be improved;
but it is a rare exception to the general rule if one
becomes a good hitter. Otherwise, why would the
major leagues spend thousands and thousands
of dollars each year buying new men who can
bat, and letting once valuable men go who have
fallen off in their batting? If batters could be
made, why wouldn't managers keep their own
players and develop their batting, instead of let-

BATTING 113

ting them go (after probably paying large sums
for them originally) ? However, if players start
early enough they can overcome many of their
faults, and can go through the mechanical part
of batting — their eyes must furnish the rest.
Most batters can improve with careful study and
practice.

The following suggestions should be of assis-
tance to players who are interested in batting:

Learn to stand up to the plate without fear of
being hit by the ball. Remember that the pitcher
is trying to throw the ball over the plate and not
at you. All pitchers put their greatest efforts
into controlHng the ball, and to hit a batter is
considered poor control; therefore never worry
about being hit. If a speedy ball comes directly
at you, step away, always watching the ball;
but if a half-speed ball — or one which you can
easily tell is not meant for a fast one — comes at
you, keep your position and be ready to hit it,
because in all probability it will be a curve which
will break over the base. Do not let the pitcher
drive you away from the plate. Determine just
what position is best for you to take — and keep it.
If the pitcher throws fast balls close to your body,
do not whirl away, turning your back to the ball;
for if you do you will let many curved balls go
over the base. The safest way on the close ball

114 BASEBALL

is to step away from the plate, if possible keeping
the back leg stationary, all the while facing the
pitcher, with the bat ready to hit the ball if it
comes over the plate.

Hold the bat firmly in both hands, keeping
your elbows away from your sides so as to swing
freely (thus avoiding the awkward, cramped swing
which is so ineffective) and using a vigorous snap
of the forearms.

Keep the back foot firmly on the ground.

Your step forward and swing should be made
both at the same time (or as nearly so as possible).
The greatest difficulty to overcome is that of
stepping too quickly. By stepping too quickly
you make the step and the swing two separate
motions at different times; this makes it difficult
for you to hit the ball.

Another difficulty is that of stepping too far.
If you take a very long stride, you naturally lower
the plane in which you hit — ^you virtually become
shorter than when you take a smaller stride —
and balls which the umpire will call strikes will
be high for you. These difficulties can be over-
come by watching yourself, thinking constantly,
and persistently trying.

Never swing at the ball with all your power —
for the harder you swing the more likely you are
to miss the ball, since you take your eye ofF the

BATTING 115

ball by the viciousness of your effort. Learn to
take a steady, true swing, bringing the bat around
in a plane parallel to the ground, and keeping your
eye on the ball. Hit at the ball where you see
it is — not where you guess it is.

Hitting ability depends a great deal upon the
strength of the forearms and wrists, as the bat
is brought around faster if the forearms are used;
therefore, develop them. Early in the season
swing three bats as often as possible, and just
before going to bat swing three. In addition to
actually strengthening the wrists, swinging three
bats immediately before going up to hit makes
the one bat seem much lighter and more easily
handled against speed.

A most important element in batting is timing
the pitcher's motion. By some regular motion
of your body or bat, get into the rhythm of the
pitcher's swing. Do this while you are standing
waiting for your turn, as well as when you are at
bat. The batter should also study the combina-
tions of balls which the pitcher uses; for instance,
whether he depends chiefly upon curves or fast
balls; whether the first ball is usually straight
or curved; whether he is using a change of pace,
and how. •

Get into the habit of hitting ahead of you —
meet the ball well in front of you. By so doing

Ii6 BASEBALL

you will be the aggressor, Instead of waiting to
see what the ball will do and generally hitting
too late.

Do not try to hit all balls into one field. If
you are right-handed, pull close balls into left
field, and drive wide balls into right field (and vice
versa if you are a left-handed batter). If you
are known to hit regularly into one particular
section of the field, you will observe that the op-
posing fielders shift into that section. You may
be sure that the pitcher knows of your tendency
to hit into that particular field and that he will
pitch probably to your weakness (that is, he will
try to make you hit the ball in a direction which
is unusual for you). For instance, suppose that
you are a right-handed batter and that you hit
all (or nearly all) balls to left field. The outfield
and infield, when you are at bat, will shift toward
left field; and the pitcher will try to keep the
ball away from you — that is, on the outside cor-
ner of the base. Now, if you are intelligent you
will realize all this; and, instead of trying to pull
the outside ball to left field, you will try to push
it to right field, which the fielders^ in shifting^ have
left unprotected.

Many batters fail to hit the ball successfully
because they lower their bat and hit up at the
ball, the only ball they can hit at all being a

BATTING 117

very low one (this will be very evident to the
pitcher, who will keep them all high). Keep the
bat and the weight of the body as far as possible
above the ball, hitting down at it rather than up,
but preferably in a plane parallel with the ground.
Keep the weight of the body on the back leg,
which should be well braced. Don't squat or
bend your knees to hit a low ball; rather keep the
back leg almost stiff and "golf" or "cricket" the
ball.

A right-handed batter, especially, should avoid
hitting hard at the ball, for such a motion will
throw him away off his stride in starting for first
base; he will have to lose valuable time in recov-
ering himself for his run to first. Use the arms,
forearms, and wrists.

Don't use a bat that feels heavy in your hands;
use one that you can snap ahead of a fast ball.
Do not be afraid of striking out; take a good,
steady, hard swing at the ball (that does not mean
striking with all your might) ; then, if you hit it, it
will go far enough. If you are afraid of missing
it and only hit half-heartedly, you will either miss
it entirely or knock a miserable little "roller."

Only natural hitters should use long bats — a
man who has a good eye for judging both speed
and curves can grasp his bat by the end; but
the ordinary batter will get better results by using

ii8 BASEBALL

a short bat or by grasping a long bat four or
five inches from the handle (choking it). This
shorter bat enables him to follow the ball closely
with his eyes while he snaps the bat around to
meet the ball.

Many batters hit late at the ball because they
make two motions of their swing; that is, they
wait until the ball has left the pitcher's hand
before drawing the bat back to swing; then they
jerk it back and swing forward — too late to meet
the ball squarely. Keep the bat well behind
you and, as the pitcher throws the ball, make
but one motion and that toward the ball, meet-
ing it in front of the plate.

When stepping forward to hit, point the toe of
the front foot into the diamond — otherwise you
will be oflP your balance if the ball comes on the
inside corner of the plate, and naturally you
cannot hit it. (If a batter does not point his toe
into the diamond when he steps, a close ball will
make him lift his toes and fall back, rising on his
heels.)

Take your step and get the bat ready to hit
every ball pitched. Don't assume too early that
the ball will be bad and then stand there unpre-
pared to hit it if it should go over the base.

A right-handed batter should hit a left-handed
pitcher's fast ball with confidence, since this ball

COMPLETIOX OF A CORRECT SWING IN HITTING.

The batter has maintained such poise as to have avoided the vice of throwing
himself off balance and of turning his back toward the pitcher.

BATTING 119

breaks away from the batter; a left-handed bat-
ter has the same advantage over a right-handed
pitcher.

A very good practice is that of standing in the
batter's position whenever a pitcher is throwing
to a catcher (it isn't even necessary for you to
have a bat in your hands) and decide which balls
you would hit at and which you would let go by.
This is good training for the eye.

A batter who can't hit a close ball should not
stand near the base, as by so doing he makes
even good balls close. He should get away from
the plate — a foot if necessary; then any ball that
looks close will be inside of the base and conse-
quently not a strike. And again, if a batter likes
a close ball but can't hit a wide one, he should
hug the plate, that is, put his feet as close to the
plate as the umpire will let him.

Most batters have certain weak spots, that is,
they have difficulty in hitting the ball if it is
thrown in certain places, or in certain ways.
Many batters cannot hit a ball that looks as
though it were going to hit them but curves over
the base; many batters have an irresistible im-
pulse to hit at high balls; weaknesses of this na-
ture can be overcome to a great degree by con-
stant practice and thinking. If you can't hit a
curved ball, go out on the field early every day

I20 BASEBALL

and have somebody throw curve ball after curve
ball at you; gradually you will become accus-
tomed to that kind of a ball and it will lose its
terror for you. If you can't resist a ball that is
high (and you find that you can't hit it), have a
player throw plenty of high balls at you — but
let them all go. This practice will generally
break the spell which the high ball has over you.
If there are other points at which you are not
strong, put special attention on just these points
until you can control them.

When taking your position to bat (with a
runner on first base) you can often tell who will
cover second base by the distances from the base
which the short-stop and second-baseman are
playing. So, if, for instance, you are a left-field
hitter and the short-stop is playing well back for
you, try to hit to the right on the hit-and-run
play (since the second-baseman will be covering
second).

' Bunting

The importance of successful bunting cannot
be overemphasized. Many games are won and
lost either by the ability or inability of the players
to bunt. Bunting is one of the first things to be
learned by a ball player; he should spend hour
after hour if necessary in practising it, and he

BATTING III

should continue to practise it throughout his
career, never allowing himself to become weak at it.

Bunting means allowing the bat to be struck
by the ball in such a way that it will roll slowly
on the ground into the diamond. When intend-
ing to bunt, be sure to conceal your intention as
long as possible. And the most successful way
to do this is to develop a bunting motion that is
as near Uke your hitting motion as you can make
it. Hold the bat as though you were going to
hit; then, as the pitcher delivers the ball, take
your usual step, bringing the bat forward with the
body, the hands spread apart five or six inches,
gripping the bat loosely, and holding it parallel
to the ground. In directing the ball to the left
or right, the hand which has been run out toward
the middle of the bat should be used as a pivot
while the other turns the bat. If the ball is low,
the bat should not be dropped to meet it; the body
should be bent as you carry the bat down to meet
the ball, in this way following the course of the
ball closely.

When you are called upon to make a sacrifice
bunt, remember that the primary reason for your
doing so is to advance the base-runner, and not to
put yourself safely on first base. Therefore stand
there and bunt the ball before you think of any-
thing else. {For direction when to make the saC'

122 BASEBALL

rifice hunt see Team Play 19.) When you are
called upon to make a sacrifice bunt, pick out a
good hall! This is the only time when the batter
can control the bat in such a way as to let all bad
balls go by; therefore, when bunting, be sure
that the ball is over the base between the shoulder
and the knee.

A fast runner can diversify his style of play
while at bat (when there are no runners on bases),
either by bunting the ball or using the drag-hit
(see Team Play 21) and trying to beat the ball
to first base. Then the next time he comes up
to bat the infield will probably play in for him,
thus increasing his opportunity of hitting safely.
Frequently even a slow runner, when the infield
is playing back, can bunt and reach first base
safely. The batter should always be ready to
do the unexpected thing; it will then be difficult
for opponents to diagnose his intentions. If the
batter is to sacrifice a runner from second to third,
and the opposing short-stop is holding the runner
close to second (being about to attempt Team
Play 15), the batter, using his own judgment, or,
upon receiving a signal from his manager, can
hit the ball through short-stop, as that position
is left open. (This play ought, however, to be
left to the discretion of the individual captain or
manager.)

BATTING 123

The Hit-and-Run Play

See Team Play 22.

When the sign for the hit-and-run play is given,
the batter should make every possible effort to
hit the ball if it is within reach of his club. But
if the ball is completely out of his reach, the
batter might just as well let it go (for the fact
that he merely swings at it won't bother the
catcher).

Whenever a batter has two strikes, he should
not hit at a bad ball to help a base-runner who is
stealing a base, especially when, with two out, the
runner is going from first to second.

The Squeeze Play

See Team Play 23.

In order to make this play successfully, learn
to bunt !

The batter should practise giving signals in an
easy, natural manner, and in order to conceal his
signals he should be constantly making motions
that have nothing to do with his particular signals.

When the batter (with no strikes) sees that
the runner on second base is going to steal (unless
he is playing the hit-and-run) he may at times
make a feint to bunt the ball, thus drawing the
third-baseman off his base.

124 BASEBALL

The batter, when leading off in an inning, or
at any other time when there are no runners on
bases and none out, should generally take one
strike before hitting at the ball (that is, he should
deliberately allow a strike to be called on him).
If there are three balls against the batter, he
should take two strikes before hitting. By
adopting this method the batter will frequently
force the pitcher to give him four balls.

With no one on base and one or two out, the
batter should try to get the pitcher in the hole
(that is, get the advantage over him in balls and
strikes) and then should be ready to hit the
next ball. The reason for doing this is that the
batter will be fairly sure of getting a good ball
as soon as the pitcher is in the hole.

When there is a runner on second and third
base, or second or third, the batter with two balls
and no strikes should not take a strike but should
hit the first good ball. Even with three balls
and no strikes it is frequently considered advis-
able to hit the next good ball, especially if the
batsman is a good hitter. Of course, a batsman
who is not a good hitter should always try to get
a base on balls.

A slide of just enough velocity to bring the right foot to the base.

A slide of such velocity as to carry the body widely off the base-line
THE FALL-AWAY SLIDE.

BASE-RUNNING

The Importance of Getting Started from
THE Home-Plate

The distance from home to first base, although
actually ninety feet, is really much longer than
the distance between any of the other bases for
the runner. The truth of this statement will be
apparent when one realizes that, while runners
on other bases often get as much as twelve or
thirteen feet leads before the ball is even thrown
to the batter, the batter starts flat-footed right
from the plate. Even to the left-handed batter,
who has the advantage over the right-handed
batter, the distance is long — at most he can get
but a single step as the ball is hit — while the right-
handed batter always has more than ninety feet
to run.

The right-handed hatter, being at a disadvantage
compared with the left-handed batter (as far as
getting to first base is concerned), should reduce
his swing as much as possible — because as he
swings he throws himself farther away from first
base.

126 BASEBALL

The left-handed batter throws himself toward
first base as he swings, and therefore has three
or four steps advantage over the right-handed
batter.

Batters should always "run out" all hit balls at
top speed. Often what seems like a sure out will
result in the batter's being safe at first if he will
but go down the base-line fast. Learn to touch
the base with either foot as you continue your
stride across the base — do not jump at the base
on the last step; continue a steady, swift stride.
On all fly balls and balls that are hit safely, instead
of continuing straight ahead over first base, begin
at about twenty feet from the plate and go out of
the base-line, circling around before crossing the
base, turning the base sharply, thus getting a run-
ning start for second. (By making this turn at
first base — see Diagram XIII, page 205 — you will
be enabled to run to second without circling far
outside of the base-lines.) Then if the fly ball be
dropped you are in a position to go to second —
if the base-hit be fumbled, you are ready to
stretch the single into a two-base-hit; if it be a
short two-base-hit, you can make it with greater
certainty than if you were to overrun first base.

When on base, always follow the ball closely;
never step off the base until you know exactly
where the ball is — you will always have plenty of

BASE-RUNNING 127

time to get your lead as the pitcher takes his po-
sition on the rubber. (This is a most important
rule, and the best players are frequently put out
when they disregard it.) Another safe rule to
follow is that of not trying to take your lead off
the base when the pitcher is standing out of his
box.

When returning to first base, keep your eyes
on the ball. (The pitcher may snap it to first if
you aren't looking.)

The Lead off First Base

It is generally conceded that the most impor-
tant part of base-running is the lead off the base
and the quick start. And the distance which
the base-runner can go from the base while the
pitcher is in possession of the ball can. only be
determined by the individual runner after much
practice. A left-handed pitcher usually compels
the runner to stay closer to first base than does a
right-handed pitcher, since the former faces the
base and can throw either to the batter or to first
with almost the same motion.

The lead off first base depends first of all upon
the runner's ability to slide back to the base
when the pitcher throws to catch him. A great
deal of time should be spent in practising the
slide back to first base — sometimes feet first,

128 BASEBALL

sometimes head first. And in games it will be
discovered that on some pitchers a longer lead
can be taken than on others; the lead can be
increased proportionately — always determined by
the runner's ability to return safely to the base.
At the same time, it is absolutely necessary that
the runner be able to go in either direction — back
to the base or on to second; therefore get off just
as far as you can, always being able to return
safely, or go to second as the pitcher makes his
motion to throw. A good lead is necessary whether
you intend to steal or not.

The Quick Start

In base-stealing, as well as in base-running gen-
erally, success depends not only on a big lead,
but upon the quick start — that is, getting started
as soon as possible before the ball leaves the
pitcher's hand as he makes his motion to deliver
the ball to the batter. Almost all pitchers make
a motion with some part of the body (arm, head,
shoulder, foot, etc.) that betrays the fact that
they will throw to the batter. A careful study of
the pitcher will disclose this motion, a knowledge
of which will be of great assistance to the base-
runner. When you are going to steal a base or
play the hit and run, look for this motion, and
as soon as you see it start for the next base.

BASE-RUNNING 129

(Much may be gained by close observation fron^
the bench when you are not at bat.)

The Fall-Away Slide

(See cut facing page 130.) In gaining any base
(except in running from home to first) or returning
to any base when there is a possibility of being
put out, the runner should slide feet first. (SHd-
ing head first offers too great an opportunity for
the baseman to block the runner off the base.)
What is called the fall-away slide is the most
effective. The fall-away slide is one wherein the
runner approaching a base throws his body out of
the base-line, landing on his side, and hooking the
base with the foot of the uppermost leg, sliding
on the under leg bent beneath him. Some play-
ers slide on the under leg extended, but in this
case great care must be exercised not to catch the
spikes of the heel of the under foot in the ground.
(Many wrenched ankles result from catching the
heel spikes in the ground while sliding.) When
sliding back to first base, the runner falls to his
left, sliding on his left leg bent beneath him, and
hooking the base with the instep or toe of the
right foot.

Every baseball player should know how to use
the fall-away slide. The first consideration in
learning this slide is a pair of sUding pads — cov-

I30 BASEBALL

ering for the hips — to prevent the skin from being
burned by the friction. Then picly out a place
where the soil is soft; use some kind of a stationary
base at which to sHde, and begin by taking short
runs at the base. Do not jump directly at the
base, but endeavor to slide away from it, catch-
ing the base with the toe of the foot which is
uppermost. When sHding to the left, hook with
right toe — and when sliding to the right, use the
left toe. The advantage of this slide is that the
baseman has only a small portion of your body
to touch with the ball — that is, your foot which
you hook to the base as your body falls away.
It is a great advantage to a base-runner to be able
to slide on both sides. For instance, if he is
steahng second, and the catcher throws the ball
low (he can tell by watching the baseman's hands)
a slide to the left would put him in an easy posi-
tion to be tagged; while if he slid to the right
he would be getting out of the way of the base-
man. On a high throw either slide would do.

It is rarely necessary to slide to first base when
running from home. It is doubtful whether any
time is really saved; it certainly makes the
umpire's decision more difficult, and most man-
agers discourage it;

Only continual practice will tell a player how
far from the base he should begin his sHde. The

BASE-RUNNING 131

only safe way is to run at full speed and practise
hooking the base; if your speed carries you past
the base, do not lessen your speed but begin your
slide sooner, that is, farther from the base. It
is always very dangerous to slacken your speed
before sliding; many broken ankles have resulted
when runners have attempted to slow up and
then slide.

A base-runner, when stealing a base, should not
look back toward the catcher. Such an action
is certain to lessen the runner's speed somewhat.
He should get his start, run with all his speed —
eyes riveted on the base and the man covering
it — and slide when he is within striking distance.

He should practise getting up on his feet with
all possible speed after he has slid to a base, to
take advantage of any misplay that may offer
him opportunity to go to the next base.

In stealing second base, always get a good lead,
but do not communicate to the pitcher and
catcher the fact that you intend to steal. (If
you do, they will work the pitch-out sign to catch
you at second, or the pitcher will keep throwing
to first to hold you close to the base.) It is well,
even when you do not intend to steal, to get a
good big lead — being ready, of course, to return
to the base at the slightest motion of the pitcher.
(Fast base-runners in this way often worry the

132 BASEBALL

pitcher into giving bases on halls to the batters.)
If the ball is hit when you are attempting to steal,
try to follow the ball with your eyes, especially
if it is a fly ball. If the ball is hit safely, use your
judgment and try to go to third base; of course,
if it is a short safe hit, or directly into a fielder's
hands, only try to draw the throw to third by
rounding second sharply as if intending to con-
tinue on to third. (Sometimes the fielder, in try-
ing to "head you ofF" at third, will make an
overthrow to that base.) If it is a fly ball, stop
between the bases — ready to go to second if it
is dropped, or back to first if caught. Good judg-
ment will have to be used to decide how far from
first to play as the ball is caught. For instance,
if the ball is hit to left field, the runner can safely
play half-way to second, since, even if the ball is
caught, he can return in safety to first base; but
if a fly ball is hit to short right field, he cannot
play very far off the base, as a quick throw to
the base might beat him back to it, completing
a double play.

Base-Runner on First

When on first base with none out, the runner,
expecting the batter to bunt, should be on the
alert; for if the batter misses the ball, the catcher
is apt to return the ball sharply to the first-base-

BASE-RUNNING 133

man or to the second-baseman, who has come in
behind and covered first base. Therefore, if the
ball is not hit by the batter, be ready to return
quickly to first base — all the while watching the
catcher, who has the ball.

Three strikes on the batter, when there is one
or no one out, puts him out; don't think you are
forced to run if the catcher drops the third strike.

One out. In this case the runner may steal
without assistance from the batter, or work with
the batter in the hit-and-run play (as he may do
also with none out).

When a runner is on first base, he should do
all in his power to avoid being involved in a
double play. The greater the lead he can get
before the ball is hit, the greater are his chances
of reaching second before the ball can be played
there. It is for this reason that the hit-and-run
play is used; even when the ball isn't hit safely,
it must be fielded very sharply to shut the man
off at second. And when the ball is hit safely,
frequently the great start will enable the man who
was on first to go to third, especially if the ball
is hit to right field.

When the hit-and-run signal is given (see Hit-
and-Run Signals, Team Play 22), get your accus-
tomed lead off first, and start as though you were
going to steal clean — don't depend upon the

134 BASEBALL

batter's hitting the ball. If he misses it, take
your fade-away slide into second with all your
speed. If the batter does hit the ball, take a
quick look at the ball. If in your judgment you
can go to third base, do so, always calculating
on your own speed and the ability of the fielder
to throw. If, when occupying first, second, or
third, a long fly ball is hit which you think is far
enough away to permit your advancing a base
when it is caught, return to the base you are
occupying and start for the next base instantly
as the fielder catches the ball. Here careful judg-
ment must be used by the base-runner taking into
consideration his own speed, the position of the
ball, and the fielder's throwing ability. Of course,
with two out, the runner should continue to ad-
vance, regardless of the position of ball, etc.

Two out. Whenever the runner is fairly fast
he should steal second (except when the pitcher
is batting, for if the runner is caught at second,
the pitcher will have to start the batting in the
next inning). But if the side be several runs be-
hind— where one run won't make much difference
in the score — the runner should play safely, wait-
ing for a hit to send him around.

It is, of course, not advisable generally to steal on
the first ball pitched, for it is hkely to be a waste
ball thrown on purpose to catch him at second.

BASE-RUNNING 135

When it is possible, steal when the pitcher is
in the hole; that is, when there are several balls
and fewer strikes on the batter.

Base-Runner on Second (or First
AND Second)

First of all — watch the ball. When the
pitcher has it — and is in his box — then the runner
can safely take his lead. The lead off second
should be such that the runner can get back to
the base safely when the pitcher turns to throw to
that base. And the runner should never go hack to
the base unless the pitcher turns toward second; then
he should slide back to the base. It is bad baseball
for a runner to take such a big lead off second
base that he is constantly worrying about being
caught. The short-stop will continually try to
drive the runner back to the base by feinting to
go to the base; for instance, the pitcher will look
over his shoulder at the runner, and as he does
so the short-stop will start as though to cover
second, whereupon the runner (if he has a big
lead) will start back to second a step or two —
possibly more; at that instant the pitcher will
throw to the batter, leaving the runner going
back to second. And if the batter hit safely,
the runner will probably be thrown out at the
plate, whereas he would have scored had he been

136 BASEBALL

going toward third instead of back to second
when the ball was hit.

Another instance in which it is fatal to be driven
back toward second base is the following:

Suppose you are on second base — no one out —
and your side wants a run badly, and the batter
intends to sacrifice you to third. The pitcher will
look back at you, the short-stop going all the way
to second; then, as you return to second, the
pitcher puts a nice ball over the base; the bat-
ter bunts, the pitcher or first-baseman fields the
ball, and you are thrown out at third base —
just because you allowed yourself to be driven
back to second (when the pitcher did not turn
to throw to that base). Therefore, never return
to second or start that way — unless the pitcher
turns around to throw there. Take a good lead
but let it be such that it will enable you to go
back to the base safely when the pitcher does
throw to catch you; then you will always be
ready to advance toward third on the pitcher's
motion as he delivers the ball to the plate.

Runner on Second

None out. The base-runner, if possible, should
observe the catcher's signals (caUing for the fast
or curve ball) and by some prearranged signal,
such as a motion of the hand or foot, should com-

BASE-RUNNING 137

municate to the batter what kind of a ball is
coming.

A bunt may be expected, especially if the batter
IS a weak hitter. Play safely, don't take many
chances. Don't be "bluffed" back to second. On
a short, clean hit turn third swiftly and be ready
to score in case of the ball being fumbled. If
the ball is fielded cleanly, feint to go home, thus
drawing a throw to the home-plate, which will
allow the batter to go to second.

One out. Take a good lead and score on a hit.
Be ready for hit-and-run play, but stop between
the bases on a fly ball to the outfield. A speedy
man occasionally can get a good lead and steal
third — always being on the alert, however, not to
give away the intention of stealing — and ready to
return to second if the pitcher turns. It is well
not to get into the habit of depending on the
coachers to keep you informed as to what the
short-stop and second-baseman are doing. Watch
the pitcher, and be able to return if he throws to
catch you. (In a game where excitement among
the spectators runs high, it is impossible to hear
the coachers anyway.)

If, on a hit to the infield, with no one on first,
you are clearly caught at third, don't run to that
base to be tagged out — run up and down between
the bases, allowing the batter time to go to second.

138 BASEBALL

When a long fly ball is hit, return to your base
and, calculating on your own speed, etc., try to
go to third as the fielder catches the ball — remem-
bering to slide, as, of course, since you are not
forced, the baseman must touch you.

Watch every opportunity to go to third on a
passed ball or on error.

Two out. Score on all hit balls. Do not at-
tempt to steal third unless you can do so easily
without risk, for you can score from second on a
hit as well as from third.

Runner on Third

When occupying third base, play outside of the
base-line, because a ball which hits you there
will not put you out, for you will be on foul ground.

Always lead well up the base-line on the pitcher's
delivery so as to score on a short passed ball or
any other misplay. But do not run away up the
base-line upon the pitcher's wind-up motion, and
then, as he delivers the ball to the batter, start
back to third, knowing that you are beyond your
safe distance. By doing this you lose all oppor-
tunity to score on a misplay, because you are going
in the wrong direction.

Never leave third base (unless there are two
out) on any kind of a long fly or line hit to the
outfield until you see that the ball is either caught

BASE-RUNNING 139

or dropped or is a base-hit. // it is a base-hit you
can almost walk home safely; if the fly is dropped,
you can score easily; and if the fly is caught, you
are in a position to score after the catch. Many
base-runners start home on line drives or fly balls
that are caught. They are therefore compelled
to return and touch third after the ball is caught,
thus throwing away their opportunity to score;
for the fielder, with this assistance on the runner's
part, can easily get the ball home ahead of the
runner.

None out. Play safely. If the infield is play-
ing in close to get you at the plate and the ball
is hit to an infielder, do not try to score; let him
throw the batter out at first (you will have two
chances left in which to score). But if the infield
is playing deep, your chances to score are in-
creased— especially on a slow hit ball; then take
a chance at scoring.

If there is a man on third and one on second
— none out — and the game is nearing its close,
and the run on third is the winning run, the man
on third should come home fast on the hit; for
if he is caught at the home-plate the man on
second will go to third, and his run can yet win
the game. On the other hand, if two runs are
needed to win (under the above conditions), play
safely, letting the fielder throw the batter out

I40 BASEBALL

at first, and leaving second and third occupied by
runners as before the hit.

One out. If the ball is hit to the infield, go
home at top speed; but if you are plainly out at
home, stop and run up and down the line, com-
pelling the catcher and third-baseman to make
as many throws as possible; thereby enabling the
batter to reach second base before you are put
out. (The batter must watch for this play, and
lose no time in getting to second base, from
which position he can score on a base-hit.)

Two out. Get a good lead — be going toward
home as the ball is pitched (be ready to return to
third if the catcher throws there) and watch for
the slightest opportunity to score.

Sometimes, if the pitcher has a long, slow
wind-up, a speedy man can steal home by getting
a fast start as the pitcher winds up.

Score on all hit balls, whether they are hit on
the ground or in the air.

Runners on First and Third

With the bases occupied in this manner, it is
usually a case of the man on third out-guessing
the catcher. (When several runs behind, play
safely and wait for the hit to score you.)

There are several ways of playing the man on
third to score:

BASE-RUNNING 141

(i) As the man on first starts for second, the
man on third starts for home. Then, if the catcher
throws to second — whether the throw be inter-
cepted by the second-baseman or not — the man on
third can score easily. Of course, if the catcher
only feints to throw and holds the ball (or throws
to the pitcher), the man is clearly out at home.
That is the chance that must be taken. (It is
a play that is usually made by slow runners, and
is either a very successful one or a flat failure.)

(2) The man takes a good lead off third and,
as the man on first starts for second, notes what
the catcher does. If the catcher throws to second,
he dashes for the plate. (The success of this play
depends upon the speed of the runner and the
manner in which the ball is thrown from the plate
and returned to it.)

(3) If one run is needed very badly and there
are two out (with a poor batter up), the following
play may be attempted : The runner on first takes
an unusually big lead (the man on third, observing
the lead, diagnoses the play and is ready to do
his part) ; then, if the pitcher throws to first, the
man starts for second; on the instant that the
first-baseman draws his arm back to throw to
second the man on third runs for home. The
same play may be made somewhat differently:
While the pitcher has the ball the runner starts

142 BASEBALL

for second; then, as the pitcher turns to throw
to second, the man scores from third.

On all of the above plays (except when there
are two out), if the man is clearly out at home,
he should stop and run up and down the line be-
tween home and third to give the runner from
first time to get to third.

Whenever there are more runners than one on
bases, each runner should always watch the man
ahead. If he goes to the next base, he should be
followed by the man behind him, as the head
runner will usually attract the attention of the op-
ponents. The following misplay, where three hits
and no runs are made in one inning, is frequently
made because the second man on base fails to
watch the man ahead of him: First man up singles;
second man singles (men on first and second, no
one out) ; the third man up makes a short, clean
hit to the outfield, the man on second stops at
third; while the man who was on first continues
on to third, thinking (without looking to see) that
the man ahead of him is scoring. Of course, the
man who was on first is put out. The next man
up hits into a double play.

The Delayed Steal

(See Team Play 24.) This play is made by a
runner on first base. It can be made successfully

BASE-RUNNING 143

only against a catcher who works automatically,
that is, who catches and returns the ball to the
pitcher without watching the runner. The runner
on first takes a good lead but does not start for
second until the catcher has the ball; then, just as
the catcher is making his motion of returning the
ball to the pitcher, the runner starts for second —
before the ball has left the catcher's hand. The
catcher must then draw his arm back again to
throw to second, taking a full swing. The short-
stop and second-baseman are often caught un-
prepared.

Coaching on First and Third Bases

Although the coacher cannot touch the runner,
yet it is very important that there be men sta-
tioned on the coaching lines at first and third
bases to give instructions to the runners. Third-
base coaching is the more important, very fre-
quently games being won or lost according to the
judgment of this coacher. It is advisable to use a
set of signals given by motion of the hands in
directing the play of a runner coming to third
base. He must be told either to slide to third, or
stop there, or continue home.

The position of a man coaching on third base
should not be in a direct line between second and
third but at a point ten or fifteen feet from third

144 BASEBALL

toward home-base. From this position he will
be able to watch at the same time the runner and
the ball. As soon as possible the coacher should
decide whether or not it is safe to send the runner
home and should instantly direct him accordingly.
He must know the game thoroughly, and must
have a quick eye to judge distances and a quick
brain in giving directions. He should only let the
man score when, in his judgment, the stage of
the game or inning, speed of runner, and position
of ball justify the attempt.

First-Base Coacher's Remarks to the
Runner, First Base Occupied

"Hold your base until the pitcher is on the
rubber."

"Get a good lead."

"Look out for a throw from the catcher."

"Watch the second-baseman coming in behind
you."

"Stop a double play."

"Half-way on short fly balls."

"Two men out, run on everything (hit)."

"Go to second on a long fly."

Coacher's Remarks, Second Base Occupied

"Watch the ball."

"Lead up with the pitcher's motion."

BASE-RUNNING 145

"Don't go back unless the pitcher turns to
throw."

"Half-way on close fly balls/'

"No one out, play it safe."

"Steal on a long fly to right field."

"One out — get the jump and score on a hit."

"Two out — score on everything."

Coacher's Remarks, Third Base Occupied

"Hold the base until pitcher gets on the rubber."

"Follow the pitch."

"Keep on foul ground."

"Be ready for a short passed ball."

"Hold your base on fly balls to outfield."

"No one out — play it safe."

"One out — score on infield hit."

TEAM PLAYS

The Reasons for the Infield Assuming
Various Positions on the Diamond

When the entire infield is playing back there
is a comparatively small space through which the
ball can be hit safely (on the ground). Nearly
all balls that are not "line drives," that is, balls
hit with terrific speed, are readily handled by
the infielders. And even on very hard hit balls
the short-stop and second-baseman are able to
cover considerable ground; of course, the farther
back the first-baseman and third-baseman play,
the more ground they can cover. (See Diagram

IX, page 203.) Take, for instance, Team Play
No. I, following, where, with three on base, the
entire infield plays back. Here they have raised
to the maximum the chances of stopping all hit
balls and of retiring the runners either singly or
by double plays.

When the entire infield plays in (see Diagram

X, page 203), they have come so close to the batter
that they have no time to judge hard hit balls —

146

TEAM PLAYS 147

and unless the ball be hit directly at them they
cannot handle it; they have reduced to the mini-
mum their abihty to cover ground. Therefore,
with a man on third (or first, second, and third,
etc.), instead of playing in at all times to prevent
the men from s.coring, it is sometimes wiser to al-
low the run to score while playing back in hopes of
making a double play — or retiring one man and
preventing more than one run from scoring.
We will take up Team Play No. i again. Here, if
the infielders play in (when their side can spare
two runs and still be ahead) and try to cut ofF
one man at the plate, they run grave risks of
having the ball hit through them, scoring two men
and leaving a man on first and second and no one
retired by the play.

For illustration of how much more ground the
infield can cover when playing back than while
playing in, see Diagram XI, page 204.

In play No. 2 (following) the men are again
shifted. These positions combine to a marked
degree the efficiency of both playing back and
playing in (but reducing the abiUty of the first-
baseman and third-baseman to cover ground).
Here the first-baseman, third-baseman, and pitcher
are in positions either to retire the runner at
home-base or to make the double play, while the
short-stop and second-baseman, in playing back,

148 BASEBALL

are protecting their team against the ball's being
hit through their positions; that is, balls on their
left or right or into the air, which they could not
have handled had they been playing in. The
short-stop and second-baseman are also in position
to make the double play. In Team Play 5 the
short-stop and second-baseman, by playing only
a few paces back of the base-line, are able either
to make the double play at second and first or to
retire the runner at home if the ball be hit sharply
at them.

The supreme object, of course, is to win the
game; this can be done as well by one run as by
ten; therefore the players should take advantage
of everything that will decrease their opponents'
chances of obtaining an insurmountable lead.

The directions in the following plays have all
been given in careful consideration of these prin-
ciples.

The infielders, in assuming their positions, should
always take into consideration the speed of the
base-runners and the hitting tendencies and speed
of the batsman. The left side of the diamond
should give ground before a hard left-field hitter;
and the right side should give ground before a
hard right-field hitter. In contemplating making
a double play, the infielders should move in a few
paces if the base-runners are fast men.

TEAM PLAYS 149

In the following plays the directions to the
infield to "play back" or "play in'* are to be
construed as follows: To play back means that
the first-baseman, second-baseman, short-stop,
and third-baseman assume their positions well
back of the base-lines — the same as they do when
there are no runners on bases. (See Diagram IX,
page 203.) To play in means that these infielders
assume their positions inside of the diamond, a
few paces from the base-lines. (See Diagram X,
page 203.)

Team Plays

(i) When the team in the field is three or
MORE RUNS AHEAD and the opposing side has
THREE MEN ON BASES (none, One, or two out), the
infield should play back at all stages of the game,
taking the chance of making a double play. (See
Diagram IX, page 203.)

(2) When the team in the field is TWO runs
AHEAD and the opposing side has three men on
BASES (none or one out), the infield, at all stages
of the game, should play as follows: The first-
baseman (three or four paces) off the base, and a
few paces back of the base-Hne. (If the batsman
is a dead right-field hitter, play a deeper position.)
The first-baseman should make his double play
at home and first, if possible. The third-base-

I50 BASEBALL

man should play on the base-line, making his
double play at home and first, if possible. (If
the batsman is a hard left-field hitter, move back
a few paces.) The short-stop and second-base-
man should play back; if possible, making their
double play at second and first. The pitcher
should try to make his double play at home and
first.

When two are out, the entire infield should play
back, retiring the runner at the easiest base. (See
Diagram IX, page 203.)

In the above conditions, some teams play their
first-baseman on the base, holding the runner up.
But, on the pitcher^s wind-up motion, both the
runner and the baseman move away from the
base; and since the baseman is in motion when
the ball is hit, he is handicapped in covering
ground to his left. On the other hand, by play-
ing off his base, the first-baseman is enabled to
cover ground on both sides, at the same time
allowing the runner only an ordinary lead. (If
the runner persists in taking a big lead, he can
be driven back by throws from the catcher.)

(3) When the team in the field is one run
AHEAD and the opposing side has three men on
BASE, with none outy the infield for the first five
innings can take positions and play the same as
directed in play No. 2. After the fifth inning the

TEAM PLAYS 151

entire infield should play in to retire the runner
at home. (See Diagram X, page 203.)

In the above conditions, with one out, play
the same as in No. 2 for the first seven innings,
after which, play in. (Some teams extend this
method of play, with one out, through the entire
game; short-stop and second-baseman playing
only three or four paces back of the base-line to
faciUtate the making of the double play.)

When two are out, play back.

(4) With THREE ON BASE, nofie out, and the score
EVEN, the infield can play for the first five innings
the same as directed in No. 2, except that the
first-baseman plays on the line a few paces ofF
the base. (After the fifth inning, the entire in-
field should play in to retire the runner at home.)

With one out, and a slow-running batsman at
the plate, the above method of playing back may
be extended for a few more innings.

(5) When the team in the field is ONE RUN
BEHIND and the opposing side has three men
ON base, with one or none out, the infield for the
first five innings should play as follows: The
first-baseman on the line, a few paces from the
base; third-baseman on the base-line; the short-
stop and second-baseman a few paces back of the
base-line. (After the fifth inning the infield
plays in to retire the runner at the plate.)

152 BASEBALL

When two are out, play back.

(6) When the team in the field is three runs
AHEAD and the opponents have a runner on
FIRST and ONE on third, the first-baseman should
hold the runner close to the base, while the rest
of the infield plays back, trying for the double
play at second and first. Under the same con-
ditions, WHEN THE TEAM IN THE FIELD IS TWO RUNS
AHEAD, the infield can play the same as above
except that the third-baseman should play on the
line. If there is none out, the runner should be
retired at home if possible. With one man out,
make the double play at second and first if pos-
sible. With two out, third-baseman moves back
— make the easiest play — either at second or
first.

(7) When the team in the field is one run
AHEAD and the opposing side has a runner on
FIRST AND THIRD, with NONE OUT, the infield for
the first five or six innings can take their positions
as directed in No. 2, except that here the first-
baseman always holds the runner close to the base,
moving out into the diamond as the pitcher throws
to the batter. Now, however, more attention
should be paid to the runner on third, and he
should be retired at home if possible. (But only
by the first-baseman, third-baseman, or pitcher.)
If the runner cannot be retired at home, the

TEAM PLAYS 153

double play at second and first should be tried
for. But if there is no chance of getting the ball
to second ahead of the runner, the batter should
be retired at first.

After the fifth or sixth inning the short-stop
and second-baseman should play a few paces
ahead of the base-line to retire the runner at
home-plate or make the double play, at the
same time protecting themselves against a stolen
base.

When the bases are occupied as above and the
score is the same, with one out, the short-stop
and second-baseman play back for the first seven
innings. After that they should play in to retire
the runner at home-plate. Some teams extend
this method of play — with first and third baseman
in, and short-stop and second-baseman three or
four paces back of the base-Hne — when one is
OUT — through the entire game, according to the
speed of the batter and the possibility of involv-
ing him in a double play. This, however, must
be left to the discretion of the individual manager
or captain. When two are out, all except the
first-baseman play back.

(8) When the score is tied (even) and there
is a runner on first and third — none out — for
the first five innings the infield should play as
follows: First-baseman always holds the runner

154 BASEBALL

close to the base; the third-baseman on the base-
line; short-stop and second-baseman three or four
paces back of the line. (After the fifth inning,
short-stop and second-baseman move in.)

With one out, short-stop and second-baseman
play back for seven innings, after which move in.
Two out, all except first-baseman play back.

(9) When the team in the field is one run be-
hind and opposing side has a runner on first
AND THIRD, the first-baseman should remain on
his base, the third-baseman play in, and in the
early stages of the game short-stop and second-
baseman play on or a few paces back of the base-
line. Put the runner out at home if possible;
otherwise try to make the double play. During
the last part of the game, the entire infield should
play in to retire the runner at home.

(10) When the team in the field is three runs
AHEAD and the opposing side has a runner on
second and third, the entire infield should play
back; the pitcher or third-baseman can sometimes
retire the runner at home.

With the bases occupied as above, when the
team in the field is two runs ahead, the first-base-
man should play oflF the base about half the dis-
tance which he plays when no one is on base, the
third-baseman should play on the base-line; short-
stop and second-baseman should play back. In

TEAM PLAYS 155

the last inning, however, when one or two are out,
the infield should all play back. (See Diagram IX,
page 203.)

(11) When the team in the field is one run
AHEAD and the opposing side has a runner on
SECOND AND THIRD (one or more out), for the first
three or four innings the first-baseman should play
three or four paces off the base on the base-Hne;
short-stop and second-baseman, half their regular
distance back of the base-line; the third-base-
man on the base-line. (When two are out, play
back.)

After the fourth inning the entire infield should
play in. (When two are out, play back.) Even
when ONE run behind, in the above conditions,
it has often been found a good policy to play the
infield half-way back, as above, during the early
stages of the game — especially with a hard-hitting
batsman up or a slow runner on third.

(12) When the team in the field is two or
MORE RUNS AHEAD and the opposing side has a
runner on THIRD BASE only, the entire infield
should play back, sacrificing the run to retire the
batter at first, if the man cannot be put out easily
at home. But when one run ahead, or when
BEHIND, or when the score is even (one or none
out), the infield should always play in to retire the
runner at the home-plate. When two are out, all

IS6 BASEBALL

play back to retire the batter at first. Under all
other conditions, with the tying or winning run on
third, the infield should play in.

Summary of the Above Directions to. the
Team in the Field

(For handy reference, letters correspond to the
numbers.)

Before using the following, read detailed plays
\ above.

{a) When three or more runs ahead, infield play
back.

(b) Three on Base. fVhen two runs ahead,
one or none out, infield play as follows: first-base-
man ofF base few paces back of line; third-base-
man on line; short-stop and second-baseman
back. Two out, all play back.

(c) When one run ahead, none out, for the first
five innings play as in h, then play in. One out,
play as in b for seven innings, then play in. Two
out, all play back.

{d) When the score is even, none oiit, for the
first five innings play as in b, then play in. One
out, slow batter, play as in b for six or seven
innings. Two out, all play back.

(<?) When one run behind, one or none out, for
five innings first-baseman off base on line, third-
baseman on line, short-stop and second-baseman

TEAM PLAYS 157

few paces back of line. After fifth inning short-
stop and second-baseman come in. Two out, all
back.

(/) Runners on First and Third. When three
or more runs ahead, first-baseman hold up runner;
rest of infield play back.

When two runs ahead, play as above with third-
baseman in. None out, retire runner at plate, if
possible, otherwise double play. One out, same
play. Two out, all except first-baseman back.

{g) When one ahead, none out, first-baseman on
base, other players same as b for five or six
innings. After sixth inning short-stop and sec-
ond-baseman a few paces ahead of the line. With
one out, short-stop and second-baseman play
back for seven innings, then come in.

{h) When the score is even, none out (for first five
innings), third-baseman on the line, short-stop
and second-baseman back. After the fifth inning
short-stop and second-baseman move in. With
one out, short-stop and second-baseman play back
for seven innings, then move in. Two out, all
except the first-baseman play back. The first-
baseman must always under these conditions hold
the runner on first.

(z) When one run behind, in the early stages of
the game, third-baseman in, short-stop and
second-baseman on or just back of the line, the

IS8 BASEBALL

rest of the game play in. First-baseman always
holding runner on first.

(j) Runners on Second and Third. — When
three runs ahead, play back. When two runs ahead,
first-baseman half back, third-baseman on the
line, short-stop and second-baseman back. Last
inning, one or two out, all back.

{k) When one run ahead, none or one out, for
three or four innings first-baseman on the line,
short-stop and second-baseman half-way back of
line, third-baseman on the line. After the fourth
inning, play in. When one run behind, for first
few innings play as above if batter warrants it.

(/) Runner on Third. When two or more runs
ahead, play back. Under all other conditions, one
or none out, play in; two out, all back.

(13) When the side in the field is three or
MORE RUNS AHEAD, and the opposing side has a
runner on first and second, the infield should
play back. Yet in the early stages of the game
the first and third baseman should be prepared
for a bunt.

With the bases occupied as above, the infield,
under all conditions except when three or more
ahead, with none out, should play as follows:
first-baseman on his base (ready to go in for the
bunt); third-baseman on the line (also ready for
the bunt); short-stop and second-baseman back

TEAM PLAYS 159

(but holding the runner close to second). When
ONE IS OUT, the first-baseman can move half-way
back — the rest of the infield all the way back
(if speedy man is at bat, watch for a bunt). Two
out, first-basernan goes all the way back also.

Team Plays — Offense and Defense

The following plays, if perfected, will help to
develop the team-work of a club. These plays
(and others that can be worked out with careful
study) should be learned both offensively and
defensively; that is, a team should know how to
play them or prevent their being played.

The signs that are used in the following plays
are only given as examples — each team should
decide upon its own signs.

(14) The play from pitcher to second base to catch
the runner off that base. This play may be made
in two ways :

{a) Pitcher stands on the rubber, looking at the
catcher; short-stop or second-baseman gives the
catcher a sign (such as picking up dirt or rubbing
the leg) and then starts for the base; instantly,
as the short-stop starts for the base, the catcher
gives the pitcher a sign (such as rubbing his leg
with his hand), Whereupon the pitcher whirls
and throws to second base.

ib) The pitcher looks over his shoulder at his

i6o BASEBALL

short-stop or second-baseman, the latter gives
the pitcher a sign (such as a nod of the head), and
starts for second — instantly the pitcher throws
to second.

Both methods require much practice before the
play can be made successfully.

Defense for the above play. The runner at second
should always take a lead off the base that will
allow him time to get back to the base safely as
the pitcher turns to throw to the base. Watch
the pitcher.

(15) Runner on second, none out ; a play to put
the runner out at third. When the batter is ex-
pected to make a sacrifice bunt (see Play 19), the
short-stop drives the runner back to the base (by
running as though to cover the base); then, as the
runner goes back to the base, the pitcher puts a
good ball over the plate as batter bunts. The
pitcher and first-baseman run in, and, upon getting
the ball, throw to third. The runner will have
been delayed long enough at second to be thrown
out at third. This is a dangerous play, there-
fore it should only be used occasionally, since the
batter may hit through short-stop if the position
is open.

Defense for above play. The runner at second
should never run back to the base unless the
pitcher turns to throw to the base; the runner

TEAM PLAYS i6i

should always be leading toward third base as the
pitcher delivers the ball to the batter.

(i6) Play from catcher to pitcher to second base
to catch runner off that base. This play can be
worked when the catcher has received the ball
from the pitcher; the pitcher walks carelessly
toward the catcher, who throws him the ball —
instantly as the pitcher gets the ball the short-
stop starts for the base and the pitcher snaps the
ball to second.

Defense. Runner on second always play it
safe. Return to the base as the pitcher receives
the ball from the catcher, again getting your lead
as the pitcher takes his position on the rubber
(his back toward you).

(17) Runners on first and second, or first, second,
and third, A play to get the runner off first if he is
taking a big lead. First-baseman, if playing off
his base behind runner, gives catcher the signal
(such as a slight twist of the gloved hand — to
make it safe, the catcher should return the same
signal to the baseman), the catcher then calls for
a waste ball; as the catcher receives the ball the
first-baseman starts for the base, the catcher
throwing to first instantly upon receiving the ball.

Defense. Runner on first should take a lead
oflF the base of such a distance that he can get
back to the base safely if the catcher throws —

i62 BASEBALL

and he should always go back to the base swiftly
as the catcher receives the ball.

(i8) Runner on first (or first and second), none
out, and the hatter is expected to hunt. (See Play 19.)
A play to get the runner of first. Second-baseman
gives catcher signal (catcher returns same),
catcher calls for a waste ball; as pitcher delivers
the ball, the first-baseman leaves his base and
runs toward the batter (evidently to field the
bunt), at the same time the second-baseman runs
to first to take the ball from the catcher who
throws upon catching the ball. The same play
may be made in which the first-baseman either
merely feints to go in for the bunt — or remains
on his base, receiving the ball himself from the
catcher.

Defense. Same as on the above play.

When to Bunt to Advance Base-Runners

(19) Unless otherwise stated, the following di-
rections hold good in all baseball.

{a) Runner on first hase, none out, one run needed
to win. During the last two or three innings,
bunt. (Weak hitters should bunt even in the
early part of the game.)

Reason: to avoid the double play and to put
the runner on second base, where he can be
scored by a single (one-base hit).

TEAM PLAYS 163

In amateur baseball, it is advisable to bunt
at all stages of the game in the above circum-
stances.

{h) Runner on first base, none out, two runs he-
hind. In amateur baseball, during the first four
or five innings, bunt.

Reason: to avoid double plays, trying for one
run inning after inning.

ic) Runner on first base, none out, when ahead,
hit. In amateur baseball, unless away ahead —
continue to bunt, constantly trying for one more
run.

{d) Runner on second base, none out, one run
needed to tie the score or win. Unless the batsman
is a good hitter, always bunt.

Reason: to advance the base-runner to third
base, where, with the infield in, he will have six
chances to score. The chances to score would
occur in any of the following cases: a fly ball, a
base-hit, an error, a passed ball, a wild pitch, or
the squeeze play.

Defense. The pitcher, unless the batter is a
good hitter, could attempt Play No. 15.

{e) Runner on second, none out. Amateur teams
should bunt even when one or two runs ahead.

(/) Runners on first and second, none out, one
run needed to tie the score or win. Bunt at all
stages of the game.

i64 BASEBALL

(g) Runners on first and second, none out, two
runs behind. Bunt.

Reason: to get runners on second and third
bases, with two chances to score both on a base-
hit.

(J%) Runners on first and second, none out. If
one or two runs ahead, and the batter is a poor
hitter or slow runner, he should hunt (otherwise
hit).

{i) Runners on first and second, one out, one or
two runs needed. It may seem peculiar to advise
bunting under these circumstances, but if the
pitcher is at bat and is a poor hitter, he might as
well deliberately sacrifice himself to put men on
second and third, instead of running the risk of
hitting into a double play.

(20) When a player is fielding his position
according to the battery signals (given to the
pitcher by the catcher), he must not move pre-
maturely. The batter, seeing him shift, would
probably know what ball to expect. (Batters
should note any change of position on the part
of the fielders before the pitcher delivers the
ball.)

(21) The push or drag hit. This play is accom-
plished when the short-stop and second-baseman
are playing back. The batsman taps the ball
just hard enough to get it past the pitcher on

TEAM PLAYS 165

either side. A fast man, especially a left-handed
batter, can frequently beat the ball to first base
on this play. This play may be used in connec-
tion with Play No. 22.

Defense. The short-stop, and especially the
second-baseman, can in a measure prevent this
play from succeeding by playing a Httle closer
to the base-line when batters who have made this
play successfully are hitting. A close watch over
the batter's motions will also enable the fielder
to anticipate this play, since the batter in attempt-
ing it will not take his usual swing at the ball.

(22) The hit-and-run play, (a) In this play
the batter hits the ball while the base-runner is
stealing a base, either from first to second or
from second to third. By prearranged signal, the
runner starts for the next base as the pitcher de-
Hvers the ball to the batter; and the batter makes
an effort to hit the ball. Here the batter should
not swing hard at the ball; he should concentrate
his attention upon meeting the ball and driving
it, if possible, behind the runner, thus reducir/g
the opportunity of the opponents making a
double play. In order to make this play suc-
cessfully, it is necessary for the batter to have
the ball thrown within hittable distance of the
plate; therefore the batter should attempt the
play only when he expects a good ball.

1 66 BASEBALL

The signals in this play may be given either by
the batsman or the base-runner; or the play may
be made without any signals — the batsman hit-
ting the ball as he sees the runner steaHng. The
hit-and-run play is a good one when used by
reasonably sure hitters. It frequently enables
the base-runner, because of his running start, to
go an extra base on a hit and, for the same rea-
son, makes difficult the execution of a double
play.

Defense, The only possible defense against the
hit-and-run play is to have the pitcher hold the
runner close to the base, and the catcher try to
diagnose the play, calling for the waste ball when
he thinks the play is coming. The waste ball
will prevent the batter from hitting the ball,
thereby enabling the catcher to throw to the base
to catch the runner. Here it is a battle of wits
between the pitcher and the opposing batsman
and base-runner.

{h) Another method of putting the hit-and-run
play into effect is the following: As the runner on
first starts for second, the batsman bunts the
ball toward the third-baseman. This compels
the third-baseman to leave his base and come in
after the ball, and, if the runner on first is fast,
he can frequently go to third base while the
third-baseman is playing the ball to first.

TEAM PLAYS 167

(c) The hit-and-run play may be made by
using the push or drag hit in the following way:
As the runner on first steals, the batter bunts or
pushes the ball past the pitcher on the short-stop
side. Then, if the short-stop is covering second
base (seeing the man steal), it will be difficult to
retire either the base-runner or the batsman.

HiT-AND-RuN Signals

Following are a few suggestive systems of sig-
nals that may be used in the hit-and-run play,
preferably given by the batter. (Each team,
however, should adopt a system of its own.) The
batter should give the signal to his base-runner
at a time when he knows the runner can watch
him; for instance, when the runner is returning
to his base, after making a safe hit, or when
the ball goes into the catcher's hands. When
the runner sees the signal, he steals on the next
ball pitched, knowing that batter will endeavor
to hit it.

(a) The batter wipes his hand in some partic-
ular way on some particular place on his uni-
form.

(b) The batter opens and closes either hand as
he holds the bat.

(d) Wiping the trousers with the hand may be

i68 BASEBALL

used as the hit-and-run signal, when the bat is
held in some particular position.

ie) The base-runner can select the signal to be
used by the batter. For instance, as the base-
runner returns to his base, he can make a series
of natural motions, any one of which (by p re-
arrangement) can be selected as the signal.
For illustration, suppose that it is agreed that the
second motion made by the base-runner be used
as the signal. Then as the runner returns to the
base he adjusts his hat, then pulls up his trou-
sers, and then rubs his chin. At once the batter
will know that when he wants to signal for the
hit-and-run, he must pull up his trousers. The
base-runners, of course, should vary these motions
each time they are on base; and the batter should
watch closely.

The above sets of signals (or signals similar to

them) may be adopted by the club as a whole;

^ or individual batters may have separate sets of

signals to be used with the preceding batter and

the one following.

(23) The squeeze play. This play consists in
the batter bunting the ball while the runner on
third base is on his way home. By a prear-
ranged signal (generally given by the batter) the
runner starts for home just as the pitcher be-
gins the forward part of his motion to deliver

TEAM PLAYS 169

the ball to the batter, then the batter bunts the
ball.

The success of the play depends both upon the
runner and the batter. If the runner starts too
soon, giving the pitcher time to diagnose the play
and throw the ball accordingly, there is little
chance of the batter being able to bunt. But if
the runner starts at the right time, the pitcher
will have gone too far in his motion of delivering
the ball to throw it out of the batter's reach.
The batter should be intent only upon bunting
the ball. If he has in mind the idea of reaching
first base safely, he will generally fail to bunt the
ball. Therefore he should never mind himself,
but look only to making the bunt.

The reason this play is not used more is that the
players cannot bunt and will not learn to bunt.

If there are runners on second and third as the
squeeze play is made, the runner on second, since
he too sees the squeeze-play signal, can get a
running start on the pitcher's motion and, if the
ball is bunted toward the third-baseman, can
score as the ball is being thrown to first. But
if the ball is played home, and the man going
home sees that he is clearly out, he should stop
and run up and down the line, allowing the batter
time to go to second.

Defense, The only method of breaking up the
squeeze play is for the pitcher to use a slow wind-

I70 BASEBALL

up motion, all the while watching the runner on
third base. He will often start home before the
pitcher has delivered the ball, in which case
the pitcher should throw the ball signalled by the
catcher; if the curve ball is called it should be
thrown wide and low, out of the batter's reach;
and if the fast ball is called it should be thrown
high and wide or in line with the batter's head.
The pitcher, if the man is going home, should
always throw the ball called for by his catcher,
otherwise the catcher is liable to miss the ball
entirely. For instance, if the catcher has called
for a curve, he will be ready to handle its sharp
break; and if the pitcher were to throw a fast
ball, the catcher would be deceived, and prob-
ably unable to handle it, especially if it came
high.

Squeeze-play signals. Some teams use the same
signal for the squeeze play and the hit-and-run
play. For instance, if there is a runner on third
base and one on first, the hit-and-run signal always
calls for a squeeze play.

Other teams, especially those that seldom use
the squeeze play, have a separate signal for the
squeeze play and one for the hit-and-run. Then,
with runners on first and third, the hit-and-run
signal applies only to the runner on first base,
while the squeeze-play signal works with the
runner on third.

TEAM PLAYS 171

The squeeze-play signals may be of the same
general nature as those used in the hit-and-run
play.

(24) The delayed steal. This play can be made
successfully only against a catcher who works
automatically, that is, who catches and returns
the ball to the pitcher without watching the
runner.

The runner on first base takes a good lead off
the base, but does not start for second until the
catcher has the ball; then, just as the catcher is
making his motion of returning the ball to the
pitcher, but before the ball has left the catcher's
hand, the runner starts for second. The catcher
must then draw his arm back again, making a
full swing before throwing, and this delay is what
helps the runner to beat the ball to second base.

Defense. When there is a runner on first base,
the catcher should glance at him before beginning
the forward motion of his arm in returning the
ball to the pitcher. This action will assist the
catcher in preventing the runner from making
the delayed steal.

(25) When you are two or more runs ahead,
do not take difficult chances of retiring runners
occupying bases. For instance, with first base
occupied, if the ball is hit to the first-baseman,
he should not try for the double play unless the
chances of making it are all in his favor. Other-

172 BASEBALL

wise he may lose the decision at second if the
play be close; or in throwing to second he might
hit the runner with the ball, making both men
safe. Rather than take these chances, retire the
batter at first base; there will then be one out, and
a man on second, requiring a base-hit to score him.

(26) When the pitcher is using the "moist
ball," the infielders, upon handling cleanly a hard
hit ball, should rub the ball quickly in their hands
before throwing. This action will dry the ball,
thus eliminating the possibility of a bad throw.

(27) In the last inning (one out), with the
winning run on third base, instead of trying to
shut the run off at home, the infield can play in,
while the pitcher deliberately gives the next two
batters bases on balls. Then with three men on
base the infield can go back and try for a double
play, retiring the side. The reason for the infield
playing in until the bases are all occupied by run-
ners is to protect themselves in case the batter
should be able to hit the ball. The pitcher should
deHberately fill the bases, because his infield, by
playing in, has increased infinitely the batter's
chances of hitting safely. One run will win the
game anyway, and the runner that will make it is
on third base to start with; now, by putting three
men on bases and then playing back, the team
has increased to the maximum the possibilities of
preventing a hit being made — and of retiring the

TEAM PLAYS 173

side by a double play. This play is especially
advisable when it will walk two good hitters and
bring up a weak one.

(28) When, with the infield playing in to shut
off the run at home, the ball is hit sharply and
thrown home, catching the runner between home
and third, the third-baseman should move toward
home-base, thus making it possible to retire the
runner without loss of time. The short-stop
should cover third base. The play is made in
this way to prevent the man from running up and
down the whole base-line, thus gaining time for
the batter in which to advance.

(29) Battery signs. Many college teams and
semiprofessional clubs think that the more signs
they have and the more complicated these signs
are, the more proficient they are as teams, i. e.y
they think they should have a sign for the fast
ball, a sign for what they call the "in-shoot," one
for the out-curve, one for the drop-curve, as well
as signs for the moist ball and slow ball. Now,
some of these signs are unnecessary and only
tend to complicate matters; the fewer the signs,
the less the possibility of confusion.

One sign is all that is necessary for the fast
ball, whether it goes perfectly straight or tends
to shoot. In fact, most fast balls tend to shoot a
little in one direction or another, and the catcher
is always ready for them. And one sign will do

174 BASEBALL

for curve balls, that is, the out-curve, the drop-
curve, and the out-drop. These curves are
readily followed by the catcher; he need only
know that one of them is coming to be able to
catch any of them. It is absolutely necessary
to have a separate and distinct sign for the moist
ball, since that is the most puzzHng ball for the
catcher to handle. The pitcher can throw a slow
ball without any sign. (But with an inexperi-
enced pitcher it is sometimes necessary for the
catcher to have a slow-ball sign; then the catcher,
at his own discretion, can call the slow ball when
the pitcher forgets to use it.) Another sign
which the battery must use is that telling the
pitcher to keep the ball out of the batter's reach;
that is called the "waste-ball" or "pitch-out"
sign. This ball should be fast and thrown two
or three feet outside of the plate, and at the
height of the catcher's head as he stands up.
This ball is called for when the catcher calculates
that a base-runner is going to steal, or when the
catcher thinks that he has an opportunity to
catch a runner off the base (napping). It is
absolutely necessary to keep this ball out of the
batter's reach, for if he should hit the ball while
a man is stealing or a baseman is about to play
a runner at his base, the infielders will be leav-
ing their positions open, and the ball is likely to
be hit through them.

TEAM PLAYS 175

The following are sets of signals that may be
used by batteries (pitcher and catcher). These
signals are given merely to suggest systems that
may be used. Each team should work out and
adopt its own signals. They are given prefer-
ably by the catcher who, facing the pitcher, as-
sumes behind the plate a squatting position with
knees sHghtly spread apart.

(a) Place the ungloved (bare) hand on the in-
side of the leg close to the body so that when the
fingers are extended downward they will be
visible only to players who are directly in front,
i. e., the pitcher, short-stop, and second-baseman.
Then lay the glove flat in your lap, covering your
bare hand.

One finger extended Fast ball

Two fingers extended Curve ball

One finger wriggled Moist ball

Two fingers wriggled Slow ball

Closed fist Waste ball (pitch-out)

(b) Place the open hand flat against your leg,
close to body, covering with the glove as above.

Open hand flat against leg Fast ball.

Projecting thumb Curve ball.

Closed fist Moist ball.

Projecting thumb wriggled Slow ball.

Either hand on your knee as you rise

from your squatting position Waste ball.

176 BASEBALL

(c) The following is a set of signals given by
the eyes.* Place the hands on the mask so that
the eyes are visible only to the players in front:

Looking straight at the pitcher Fast ball.

Looking to either side Curve ball.

Blinking eyes Slow ball.

Right eye closed Waste ball.

Left eye closed Moist ball.

When there is a runner on second base, the
catcher should give his signal so that the runner
cannot see them (otherwise the runner can flash
them to the batter). The signals may be given to
the pitcher when the short-stop or second-base-
man is engaging the attention of the runner. It
is sometimes advisable for the catcher to have a
separate set of signals to be used with his pitcher
when there is a runner on second base.

(30) When there is a runner on second base
and a base-hit is made to the outfield, the first-
baseman or the third-baseman, as the case may
be, can intercept the throw from the outfielder if
told to do so by the catcher, and can make the
play at second, retiring the batter at that base.
(Here the pitcher should back up home-base.)
Otherwise the ball is allowed to go to the plate.

* Eye signals, though used by some teams, are likely to involve
misunderstandings; therefore, when possible, it is advisable to use
the other system.

TEAM PLAYS 177

This ball, if intercepted, should be caught at a
point about fifty feet in front of the catcher.

Some teams have the pitcher intercept the ball
on this play while the first-baseman backs up
home-base. This, however, should be left to the
individual manager or captain.

(31) The player who is to become the next
batsman, by taking his position near home-base,
can at times give valuable assistance as a coacher.
For instance, when, with a runner on second base,
the batsman makes a base-hit, the next batsman
from his position behind home-plate is in an ex-
cellent position to judge, by the direction of the
ball as it is being thrown home, whether or not
to have the runner score.

(32) Word signals. Too much emphasis can-
not be laid upon the fact that the manager (or,
in amateur baseball, the captain) should observe
very carefully and turn to his own account, when
possible, everything that the opposing players do.
From his position on the coaching lines or on the
bench he should be keen to note and communicate
to his players any line of offense or defense that
may be laid open. And in order to do this, he
must have a system of word signals. For ex-
ample, any remark to the batsman containing
the word out would instruct him to hit instead of
bunt, and vice versa. ("Hit it out." "No one

178 BASEBALL

out," etc.) Suppose that the manager, after he
had instructed the batsman to bunt, observed
that the third and first basemen were playing
very close and were coming in to handle the bunt;
then the manager by use of the word signal could
switch the batter from bunting to hitting. By
so doing he would catch the infielders unawares,
and most likely get the ball safely past them.
And again, suppose that the batter had been in-
structed to hit, and that he had hit a hard foul
down the third-base line, the third-baseman cal-
culating that he will hit again, drops back of the
base-Hne several paces, thereby increasing his
abihty to handle hard-hit balls. Here, the
watchful manager, knowing his batter's speed and
his ability to bunt, and the third-baseman's field-
ing weaknesses, etc., can become effective. By the
use of the word signal he can instruct the batter
to bunt. Then if the bunt be laid down the third-
base line, the chances are all in favor of the bats-
man.

This system of word signals may be used with
base-runners also, and, in fact, it may be extended
to various other departments of the game.

HINTS TO COLLEGE PLAYERS

The following suggestions may be of interest
and of some value to college players :

Have regular hours for study. If these are to
be at night have them in the early part of the
evening. "Think baseball" after you have pre-
pared your other lessons. Do not start your
study hour with baseball or you might find it
difficult to get your mind down to your other
studies. As far as is possible do your studying
in the daytime, all kinds of artificial lights hurt
the eyes.

If you are worrying over low standing in any
subject or subjects, it may interfere in your
thinking and playing baseball; tell the coach
about it; he can generally help you in some way.

Do not become discouraged if you do not
"make" the team as soon as you thought you
would; keep working, drill yourself on your weak
points, make them strong points.

Get plenty of rest during the baseball season,
it will help you to get a better drive to your

179

l8o BASEBALL

bat and more "back" into your throws. If
other students insist upon keeping you awake,
" kick over the traces" and make them realize the
injury they are doing you.

Do not sulk if you are not put on the regular
team. If you think you are a better player than
some other man, work hardy and show your coach
that you are better.

Do not rebel against learning new ways of
playing the game — generally a riper experience
than you have had tells the coach that what he
wants you to do is the best. The man who won't
learn has to step aside finally for the man who
will.

Never think that the baseball team is going
to pass your examinations for you. If you are
good enough to be on the team, you owe it to your
college to stay there, so study regularly and hard.

Respect the older members of the team; but
if you are out for a position, play your best, no
matter whom you may have to oust.

Because your opponents come from a larger
college than yours, do not think that they are
necessarily better than you. Go in to win !
Play baseball every minute !

Do not hesitate to offer suggestions to your
coach and captain, but think these suggestions
over carefully before making them. If it is some-

HINTS TO COLLEGE PLAYERS i8i

thing that they have overlooked, they will be glad
to hear it. But be careful about pitting your
judgment against theirs.

Drop any sHpshod method of playing which
you may have learned in school. In college you
will be taught the best methods; learn them and,
on every occasion, think!

Listen to what the coach has to say, no matter
whether it applies to your position or not, for
baseball knowledge will come in handy. If you
know all that the other fellow knows, maybe you
can outwit him when the occasion arises.

When you are to play on a strange field, go out
on it before the game and look it over. Note the
position of the sun, the condition of the grounds,
whether the ground is lively or not; observe any
obstructions, such as fences, stands, etc. Note
what kind of a background you will have to look
into; also observe any unusual condition of the
wind; examine the base-lines, to see whether bunts
will tend to roll foul or safe, etc.

Keep a note-book and put down in it the
mistakes you have made, also the mistakes others
make; this will help to fix in your mind the cor-
rect way these plays should be made.

Learn the rules. Study them carefully, over
and over.

If there is any particular point about which

i82 BASEBALL

you are uncertain, ask the coach ! Do not go
along until the play comes up without knowing
how to handle it.

Constant practice will strengthen you where
you are weak. Get out on the field early and
practise (such as outfielders handling ground balls,
hitting a curved ball, or handling bunts).

If you have fallen off in your batting, study
yourself; have the coach watch your motion at
bat. There is generally a good reason for your
"losing your stride." It may be that you are
stepping too far, or hitting up at the ball, or pull-
ing away, etc.

When you have made a mistake, admit it. (The
best players make them.) But try not to repeat
the same mistake.

Do not be ashamed to strike out, but do not
strike out on called strikes. "Hit them when
they are over."

Stop working before you are dead tired. You
can't do your best when you are fagged out. Do
not bat too long at a stretch, for your muscles
lose their freshness and you can't get the neces-
sary snap to your swing.

If you have a sore arm, tell the coach. You
can't do yourself justice while working at this
disadvantage.

While you are at bat, a touch of near-sighted-

HINTS TO COLLEGE PLAYERS 183

ness or far-sightedness is frequently offset by a step
nearer to the pitcher or a step away.

Do not crowd the plate if you can't hit a close
ball.

Keep away from the score-book. Play the game
the best you know how, and let the averages take
care of themselves.

Very often weak wrists and arms (indicated by
a longing for a light bat) are overcome by having
a bat handy to swing in your room. Bore a hole
in the end and insert a half pound of iron in it.

Avoid tobacco. It can't do you any good.

Remember that the professional is better than
you because he devotes his entire time to thinking
and playing baseball, while you have your college
duties to perform (spending but a Httle time over
ball). However, try to bring into your baseball
some of that thinking ability which your college
training is supposed to develop in you.

Your opportunities for studying your opponents
are infinitely less in college than in professional
baseball; therefore, observe very carefully what
happens, and remember it. Note the directions
in which the various batters hit, who the fast
men are, etc.

Do not imitate the professional's vocabulary,
or his walk — they won't improve your game;
observe how he actually plays the game.

i84 BASEBALL

If your team wins, don't worry about your per-
sonal performances.

Avoid getting into the habit of quarrelling
with the umpire — this habit never avails you any-
thing. If he has made a mistake, he knows it;
your telling him about it constantly may make
you feel smart, but it won't help your team
any.

A player's individual ability is often offset by
his disorganizing effect on the team. Beware of
dissension.

Next to being captain of the team, you should
be a good follower.

Never be satisfied with your game, try to im-
prove.

Remember that as a college man you are sup-
posed to be a gentleman. Habits of rowdyism
are not tolerated in professionaHsm; college en-
vironment should stamp them out automatically.

Give your opponents credit for a good play; you
like to get it when you make a good one.

It is a good plan for the players to chum to-
gether when ofF the diamond — this produces a
spirit of unity that can't be obtained in any other
way.

Remember that when you are chosen to play
on a college team you represent not only your
particular student body but the whole host of

HINTS TO COLLEGE PLAYERS 185

alumni and the friends and benefactors of the
college. Therefore do not perform one act which
will prevent you from being absolutely at your
best — ^worthy of the trust placed in you.

XII

HINTS TO SPECTATORS

The incidents during a baseball game that have
to do with its final outcome are many and
various. The almost infinite number of possi-
bilities, either attempted or neglected, which offer
themselves in the nine innings, can scarcely be
grasped even by the most trained observer. But
many of the important things which affect the
offense and defense — the success or failure of play
— may be recognized by the average spectator
when once his attention has been called to them.
A knowledge of those points which are of vital
importance to the players cannot fail of being
interesting to the spectator. It is felt, therefore,
that the following "hints'* will help the spectator
in placing proper significance upon the various
acts of the players :

It will be observed that a certain few players
always coach at first and third bases. These men
are selected to do this work because their judg-
ment in directing the base-runners is good. Many
a game has been lost because the manager sent
the wrong player out to coach.

i86

HINTS TO SPECTATORS 187

The direction and strength of the wind are im-
portant factors in baseball. Observe the players,
as they come on the field, tossing bits of grass or
dust into the air, or looking at the flags to ascer-
tain the direction of the wind.

Before the game observe the constant practice
of receiving short taps from the bat.. Four or
five players in a group in turn throw the ball to
a single batter. This rapid handling of the ball
removes awkwardness, and is good training for
batting and fielding.

When certain players are at bat, the outfielders
may be seen to shift their positions. For in-
stance, if a batter is known to hit the ball reg-
ularly to left field, the outfielders all move in that
direction; then the pitcher, by keeping the ball
well on the first-base side of the plate, will try to
make the batter hit to right field — calculating
that the batter will not hit effectively in that field.
Some pitchers, however, try to make men hit to
their favorite field, after placing the fielders in
that field.

Some men are constantly swinging two or three
bats. This is done to strengthen the forearms
and wrists. After handling two or three bats,
one bat seems quite light in the hands and can be
swung more readily against a speedy ball.

Note the kind of balls thrown to the batters

i88 BASEBALL

in batting practice. If a left-handed pitcher is
expected in the game, practice will be against a
left-handed man, who will try to throw the same
kind of balls that the opposing pitcher will throw.

Often the runner on first base will take a big lead
off the base, without intending to steal, merely
to worry the pitcher, who will keep throwing to
catch him. This is frequently done against
young or inexperienced pitchers, compelling them
to lose their control.

" When a runner is on first base and there are
two out, note how many high, wide (waste) balls
are thrown to the batter. This is done to enable
the catcher to throw readily to second base, for
the runner will usually attempt to steal when
there are two out.

A team that is several runs behind will seldom
bunt; it usually tries to hit the ball hard, taking
the chance of getting as many runs as possible,
instead of sacrificing to score one or two.

There is usually one ball with which a pitcher
is most successful, sometimes it is in combination
with another. It is interesting to try to discover
wherein the pitcher's success lies.

When a runner is on first base, and there are
none out, observe the kind of balls thrown to the
batter. If the score is at all close, the pitcher
generally expects the batter to bunt; therefore.

HINTS TO SPECTATORS 189

he usually keeps the ball high, in which place it
is difficult to bunt successfully.

A pitcher who "has the batter" two strikes and
no balls will generally make him go after a "bad"
one. It is interesting to note with what kind of
a ball the pitcher tries to catch his man napping.

When there are two out, and three balls and two
strikes on the batter, all base-runners advance as
the pitcher makes his motion to deliver the ball
to the batter.

A team that is two or more runs ahead will
seldom play the infield in; it is the safer policy
to play back, allowing one run to score if neces-
sary, in order to make a double play or to clear the
bases.

When a runner is on third base (one or none out),
the score being close, observe that the infield
plays in to retire the runner at home-base. Many
teams, however, restrict the playing of their in-
field in to the last part of the game, being con-
tented in the early part of the game to keep the
score as low as possible while making every effort
to clean the bases or retire the side by a double play.

When a runner is on first base and a hit is made
to right field, note the positions taken by the
short-stop, left-fielder, and the pitcher. Since
the ball will be fielded, usually, to third base, the
short-stop should be in direct line with the ball

I90 BASEBALL

and should, if told to by the third-baseman, inter-
cept it and throw to second to head off the run-
ner there. (This is done if the third-baseman sees
that the man going to third cannot be caught.)
The pitcher should be backing up third base, as
also should the left-fielder; an overthrow would
then be handled and a score prevented.

It is interesting to watch the situation where
there is a runner on first base and one on third.
The team in the field usually makes every effort
to prevent what is known as the "double steal,"
that is, the runner on third scoring as the runner
goes from first to second. The pitcher is up
against the proposition of keeping the runners
close to their bases to prevent their getting big
leads; he must also cut down his motion as much
as possible, and yet must keep his control so as
not to give the batter a good ball to hit — the ball
must also be one which the catcher can readily
get off to second base. The short-stop and
second-baseman must be so placed as to play the
ball either home or at second — and their actions
are generally dependent upon whether the batter
be a right or left handed hitter and what direc-
tion he usually hits in. The catcher may throw
the ball to the pitcher, or to second base; or, after
a feint to second, throw to third; sometimes throw-
ing to third directly.

HINTS TO SPECTATORS 191

When a runner is on second base, and the bats-
man hits safely to the outfield, note where the
pitcher plays; also note what the first-baseman
does. Usually the first baseman backs up the
catcher, while the pitcher places himself in direct
line with the ball which is being thrown home.
If told to do so by the catcher, the pitcher will
intercept the ball and throw it to second base,
attempting to catch the runner there. Some
teams, however, prefer to have the pitcher back up
home-plate, while the first-baseman places him-
self in line with the ball thrown home.

Observe how the team in the field plays when
a runner on first base attempts to steal. On some
teams, one man always covers second base, and
the pitcher must use his control accordingly.
For instance, if it is the second-baseman who
covers the base, and the man at bat has a strong
tendency to hit between first and second, the
pitcher must place the ball so as to make him hit
to the opposite side of the diamond; if the bats-
man hits right-handed, the ball must be kept
close to him; and if he hits left-handed, it must
be kept on the outside corner of the plate. On
other teams, the second-baseman takes the base
if the batsman is known to hit to the left, while
the short-stop takes it if the batsman hits to
the right. On free hitters the short-stop covers

192 BASEBALL

second on all fast balls; and the second-baseman
does so on all curved balls.

When a runner is on first base, and the batter
hits into a double play, note what the catcher
does. Since the ball, on this play, must be han-
dled with great swiftness, there is a possibility
of an overthrow at first, therefore the catcher's
position should be back of first base. The same
is true when, with none on base, a ball is hit
slowly toward the second-baseman.

Often one will see players trying to soil a new
ball. This is done to take the gloss off the cover
so that the pitcher can control and curve the
ball. Frequently, as the new ball is batted into
the air, and while the eyes of the umpires and
spectators are on the ball, the pitcher rubs his
hand in the dirt. He can then remove the gloss
from the ball when it is returned to him (without
fear of penalty from the umpire).

Observe that outfielders look away from the
sun as much as possible, either turning their
backs or looking down when it is not necessary
for them to watch the ball. This is quite a nec-
essary precaution in an especially sunny field, as
the strain on the eyes is very severe.

A pitcher never deliberately "walks" the first
batter in any inning, regardless of the score.

Every batter has his ** lucky way" of walking

HINTS TO SPECTATORS 193

up to the plate. Observe that some always walk
in front, and some behind the umpire, usually per-
forming some regular act, such as cleaning the
dirt out of their spikes, wiping hands on the
ground, hitting bat on the plate, etc.

When the batsman makes a long hit, observe
that the basemen stand on their bases in such a
way as to make the runner take the outside of the
bases, thereby delaying him considerably.

When a runner is on second base, the short-
stop usually runs him back to the base, and the
pitcher, seeing the runner going back, delivers the
ball to the batter. This play is made to throw
the runner oflF his stride; he is going back toward
second base as the ball is pitched, consequently
lessening his chance of scoring on a safe hit.

Occasionally, when the above play is made (if
there is none out and the batter is expected to
bunt), the pitcher throws a perfect ball to the
batter, then the first-baseman and pitcher run
in to handle the bunt, which they throw to third,
often catching the runner there because he was
driven back to second as the ball was pitched.

Passed balls and wild pitches are frequently
the result of misunderstanding between the
pitcher and catcher — of getting their signals
** crossed." If the catcher calls for one kind of
ball and the pitcher throws another, there is apt

194 BASEBALL

to be trouble, especially if a low curve is called,
and the pitcher throws a high fast ball. Spec-
tators can usually detect this battery mistake,
for the catcher squats, expecting a curve, while
the ball generally shoots high and wide, out of
his reach. A conference between the pitcher and
catcher usually follows.

When the pitcher has lost his control, some
player usually takes out time, by adjusting his
uniform, or holding a conference with another
player, etc. — anything to gain time during which
the pitcher can get back his control (in the mean-
time the pitcher throws to the catcher or first-
baseman). Frequently the captain will walk over
to the pitcher and talk to him, trying to steady
him.

Some managers **warm up" fresh pitchers where
the man who is working can't see them, since
many pitchers, especially young ones, lose heart
when they see another man ready to take their
place.

Note the little tricks that are played to give the
pitcher time to recover his breath after he has
run several bases. The following are examples:
The coacher pulls the batter away from the plate
and whispers to him at length; another man is
sent in to run for the pitcher, but suddenly the
manager decides to let the pitcher run himself.

HINTS TO SPECTATORS 195

after the lapse of a few minutes; if the pitcher is
about to start an inning, after running bases, the
catcher throws the ball into centre field — anything
to delay the game.

Outfielders should return the ball to the
catcher so that he receives it on the first bound.
Long throws to third base are made in the same
way. This makes it possible for another fielder
to intercept the ball if it is necessary; and it also
gives the catcher or third-baseman a better oppor-
tunity to handle the ball.

A clever play is sometimes made by a fast
runner on third base. As the ball is hit toward
second base the runner on third gets a late run-
ning start from the base, evidently trying to
score. The fielder hurries the ball home, but the
runner suddenly pulls up and goes back to third
base, thereby making the runner on first and
himself safe.

It is interesting to note the remarkably fast
start toward second base many runners get by
taking a turn before reaching first base; that is,
they go out of the base-line and are headed for
second base as they cross first.

DIAGRAMS

Showing the catcher backing up first base to recover overthrows, when, with
a runner on first, the ball is hit to the short-stop or either position in the infield,
and relayed from second to first — on the double play. It also shows the left
and centre fielders getting in line with the hit ball to recover it if it gets by the
short-stop. And it shows the right-fielder getting in line with the throw from
the short-stop to second base to recover llj.e ball if it is thrown wildly. On this
play, the catcher should take a position about thirty feet froni first base; he caa
then catch overthrows, and put out the batter, who will be going to second.

DIAGRAM II.

Showing a play being made after a base-hit to the right-fielder (with a runner
on second). Heavy lines show one method of play; dotted lines (from pitcher
and first-baseman) show another. Ordinarily, since the first-baseman is better
in handling thrown balls, he should take his oosition inside of the diamond while
the pitcher backs up the catcher. Many teams, nowever, play as inoicated by
the dotted lines. In either case, the second-baseman covers first, and the short-
stop takes second; while the left-fielder backs up third base, and the centre-
fielder backs up second base. On a hit to the centre-fielder, these same relative
positions should be taken.

199

DIAGRAM III.

This diagram shows a play being made after a base-hit to left field (with a
runner on second). The third-baseman cuts into the diamond (as indicated by
the arrow) to be ready to intercept the ball as it is thrown home. The second-
baseman covers second, short-stop covers third. The third-baseman should in-
tercept the ball and throw to second if the ball is going wide, especially if he is
told to do so by the catcher (in case it is too late to catch the man at home). The
play to second may cut off the batsman, who will be going there on the throw
home. The centre-fielder backs up second base, the pitcher backs up home-base.

DIAGRAM IV.

Showing a play being made after the ball is hit past the left-fielder. The
ball is recovered by the left-fielder, and thrown to the centre-fielder, who has
got in line with the throw in. Then the centre-fielder throws either to third
base or home according to the directions of the short-stop, who has run out to-
ward the centre-fielder, and is backing him up. The pitcher backs up third
base, the first-basemen backs up the catcher, and the second-baseman covers
second base. The right-fielder backs up second base.

200

DIAGRAM

Showing a play being made after the ball is hit into deep left centre field.
The ball is recovered by the centre-fielder, and is thrown to the left-fielder, who
takes a position in line with the home-plate. The left-fielder throws either to
third base or home according to the directions of the short-stop, who is backing
up the left-fielder. The pitcher backs up third base, the first-baseman backs
up home-base, the second-baseman covers second base, and the right-fielder backs
up second base.

DIAGRAM VI.

Showing a play being made after the ball is hit into deep right centre field.
The centre-fielder recovers the ball and throws it to the right-fielder, who is in
line with the throw home. Then the right-fielder throws either to third base or
home according to directions from the second-baseman, who is backing up the
right-fielder. The left-fielder and pitcher back up third base, and the short-
atop covers second base. The first-baseman backs up home-plate.

201

DIAGRAM VII

Showing a play being made after the ball has been hit past the right-fielder.
The right-fielder recovers the ball, and throws it to the centre-fielder, who has
crossed over in line with the throw home. The centre-fielder throws either to
third base or home according to the directions from the second-baseman, who is
backing up the centre-fielder. The left-fielder backs up third base, pitcher backs
up home, short-stop covers second.

DIAGRAM VIII,

Showing a play being made to retire a runner between third base and home.
The runner is on third base, the ball is hit to the second-baseman, who throws
home and then covers second. The runner starts for home (dotted line x to x),
but stops when he sees that he is caught (allowing the batter time to go to sec-
ond). The third-baseman, to retire the runner between third and home, quickly
follows the runner in, retiring him on one throw from the catcher; then the third-
baseman throws to second to retire the batsman, who will be trying for that base.

202

2"-»B

IVB

DIAGRAM IX.
Showing the entire infield playing back. From these positions, the infielders
are enabled to cover the maxiinum amount of ground on all kinds of hit balls.
These positions should be assumed only when it is unnecessary to play for a
runner at home, or to hold a runner close to the base. For detailed directions
as to when to take these positions, see Chapter X on "Team Plays." There
are occasions, even with a runner on third base, when it is advisable to assume
the above positions.

(g)

DIAGRAM X.
Showing the entire infield playing in. In these positions the infielders are
able to handle with great rapidity all ordinary balls hit directly at them, or
nearly so, and therefore can readily shut off runs at the plate. Before assum-
ing these positions, however, players should study carefully Chapter X on
"Team Plays." The infielders should here gauge their distances from the home-
plate by the hitting ability of the batter. Close in on a weak hitter — but be
cautious before a slugger.

203

DIAGRAM XI.

This diagram illustrates roughly the advantage in covering ground which the
infielders have when playing back. By playing inside of the diamond, the in-
fielders bring themselves within such close range of the batter, that after the
ball is hit, they have little or no time to move to the right or left. While by
playing well back and outside of the diamond, they are able to run several paces
in either direction before the ordinary ball can get by them. Of course, balls
hit on a line between fielders go for base-hits — no matter where they play.

DIAGRAM XII.

Showing a play being made after a hit to the right-fielder (with a runner on
first base). The right-fielder throws the ball to third base to head ofi" the runner.
The short-stop should get in line with the throw (about thirty feet from third
base), and if the throw is one which will not catch the man at third— usually the
third-baseman directs the short-stop here — the short-stop should intercept the
ball and throw it to second to head the batter off there. The pitcher and left-
fielder back up third base, the short-stop covers second, and the centre-fielder
backs up second.

204

DIAGRAM XIII.

A hit to left field. The dotted line illustrates what is meant by "making
your turn at first base." By making your turn in this manner you save ground
and time in getting to second should ball be fumbled. Tliis is the correct way
of runDing out base-hits and fly-balls.

DIAGRAM XIV.

A hit to left field. The dotted line shows the incorrect way of running out a
base-hit. This illustrates the advantage of making your turn before reaching
first base, as shown in Diagram XIII.

205

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