Tag play situations

Fly ball to center with runner on 3rd

Center field secures the catch, the middle infield lines the cutoff, and the runner from third must earn the trip home.

P C 1B 2B SS 3B LF CF RF R3 Ball

Starting look Starting spots Start with a runner on 3rd, 1 out, and the defense in its ready spots before the fly ball to center field.

Coaching point

Make the catch first, then line the throw home.

  • Tag play situations
  • Fly ball

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

Back up home as soon as the outfielder settles under the ball.

C Catcher

Own the plate and communicate the throw home.

1B First Base

Stay home at first and be ready only if the runner retreats.

2B Second Base

Trail the relay from the middle so second base is still protected.

SS Shortstop

Be the cutoff from center and line the relay to home.

3B Third Base

Hold third until the runner is fully committed to score.

LF Left Field

Slide behind center as support on the catch.

CF Center Field

Make the catch first, then get the ball moving home quickly.

RF Right Field

Stay balanced on the far side so the outfield does not over-rotate.