Expert: Rick Bundy - 5/29/2009

Question
My husband and I coach Machine Pitch Little League and need clarification on the "run on anything with two outs" statement. We can't lead off or steal, so if we have a runner only on second (no force)does he run as soon as he hears the ball get hit, or wait to see where it is hit too? The majority of hit balls are hit infield and to shortstop.

Thanks
Leisha

Answer
Leisha:  The runner on second should be looking in at the pitch and will see it off the bat.

While you don't want them to run into an easy tag out, which might occur with a ball hit to the third baseman, leaving when the ball hits the bat should have the runner past the shortstop, at least enough that if he wants to make a play on him, it is going to require a throw and catch also, just not as long a throw.

If the ball is in front of the runner, he can slow down and make the fielder throw across, then go.  

It wouldn't be wrong if you had them get off a little on a ball to short, and go on the throw across.  They will make third easily, even by waiting.  

Hope this helps.  Good luck with your season.  

Yours in baseball,

Rick