First-and-third defense

First-and-third 2B cut and throw home

Second base cuts the steal throw in front of the bag and redirects home when the runner from third breaks.

Starting look Starting spots Start with runners on 1st and 3rd, 1 out, and the defense in its ready spots before the first-and-third to second base.

Coaching point

Protect home first once the runner from third commits.

  • First-and-third defense
  • First-and-third

Player jobs

Every defender's assignment

Teach the simple version first, then run the steps again until each player can say the job out loud.

P Pitcher

Protect the plate before chasing the runner between first and second.

C Catcher

Catcher starts the steal throw and gets back to the plate immediately after the cut.

1B First Base

Stay aware of the trail runner and close only when home is protected.

2B Second Base

Cover, cut, or trail the throw based on the called first-and-third coverage.

SS Shortstop

Cover, cut, or back up the middle based on the called first-and-third coverage.

3B Third Base

Third base holds the bag until the lead runner is fully committed.

LF Left Field

Back up third because the lead runner may retreat there late.

CF Center Field

Stay centered behind second in case the throw gets through.

RF Right Field

Back up the first-base side if the rundown starts there.