In baseball there are a number of reasons that we have pick offs at first base. First, if the base runner has a big lead or is asleep we might get an easy out. Second, if we do this well we might discourage the base runner from attempting to steal second base. Third, pick off attempts may shorten the base runner’s lead off first base, making them take more time to get to second and possibly leading to them being thrown out when attempting to steal second.
So there are positives when it comes to pick off attempts at first base. This can also go terrible wrong if it is done badly. First, if the ball is thrown to first base wildly or if the first baseman doesn’t catch the ball, then we probably gave up a stolen base. Second, if the pick off attempt is performed at the wrong time it may encourage runners on other bases to run and could result in giving up a run.
The point behind this is that the first baseman has an important role during pick off attempts. Below are some pointers to help first basemen with pick off attempts.
Positioning:
When there is going to be a pick off, it’s because the base runner is leading off the base. With this in mind, the first baseman needs to be positioned to catch the ball and make the tag successfully. It’s helpful for a first baseman to be square to the pitcher, to offer a better target. To do this, position the right foot on or near the inside corner of the base. The left foot will be towards the chalk line to keep you square and to provide a big powerful base.
The tag:
It’s not a force out, that means you have to tag the base runner as they slide into the base. Because they’ll be attempting to slide, you want to tag them low. Not only do you want to tag them low, but you can also position the glove on the inside of the base so that the runner slides into the tag.
If there is no pick off:
If there is no pick off, then the first baseman still has fielding responsibilities if the ball is hit. This means that when the pitcher commits to the pitch, the first basemen should be shuffling over towards second base, ensuring they are in their ready position so that they can react to balls that are hit in this area.
