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How many defensive players ( infielders or outfielders are allowed on the base path at one time during the run down of a base runner?
Jackie Robinson in a classic rundown
Anonymous asked: I recently saw 5 defensive players on the base line involved with a runner in a run down. If the base runner turns and runs full speed away from the defensive player with the ball, the defensive player is taught to throw the ball to the defensive player on the other end. That player is moving towards the base runner, when he calls for the ball to be thrown to him. Since the runner is going at full speed, and the receiving player is moving towards him when the ball is thrown, he catches it and makes the tag for the out before the runner is able to stop, and change direction. Defensive players are under no restrictions as to the number of players that can be involved in a rundown, they could have all 9 players there if needed. The common wisdom is, the more defensive players that are involved, the more throws created, the better the opportunity for the offensive runner to be safe, at one end or the other. Defensive players cannot impede the base runner's path, unless they are in possession of the baseball. That is the rule they are governed by. Coaches teach defenders to make the throw, then move out of the baseline and go to the other end of the line, in the event that they need to come back the other direction. Jackie Robinson had a technique, as well as a great athletic talent, to be able to command the kind of respect for his abilities, that you see in the above image. Yours in baseball, Rick |
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