3B Pickoff Rundown

Purpose
Practice rundowns after a pickoff with a runner on third.

Setup

• Pitcher on the pitcher’s mound
• Catcher behind home plate
• Third baseman on third base

Execution

1. The runner on third takes a lead.
2. The pitcher makes a pickoff move as the runner breaks for home.
3. The third baseman and catcher execute the rundown.
4. The pitcher runs behind home plate as a backup.

Coaching Tips

Throwing Mechanics During Rundowns:

• If the runner breaks hard and reaches the point of no return, the infielder should unload the ball immediately.
• If the runner does not commit, the infielder should sprint at him aggressively and anticipate a call for the ball.
• The infielder with the ball should always run with the ball in the throwing position.
• If the runner is going away from his original base, the throw should be on the outside of the baseline.
• When running a man back to his original base, the throw should be on the inside of the baseline; the receiving infielder should move over so the ball is on his glove side.
• For left-handed throwers, the opposite is true—the receiving infielder should adjust to line up on the opposite side.
• The infielder without the ball should set up, go to the base if necessary, or close the gap to shorten the rundown.

Tips for Younger Athletes:

• Focus on making short, controlled throws rather than long, risky ones to keep the rundown efficient.
• Emphasize quick footwork—players should stay light on their feet and move with the play rather than waiting for the ball.
• Teach younger players to always keep their glove open and ready to receive the ball when involved in the rundown.

Tips for Older Athletes:

• Work on disguising pickoff moves to prevent the runner from reading the play too early.
• Teach players to communicate with clear, loud verbal cues to eliminate hesitation in the rundown.
• Emphasize advanced positioning—players should cut off the runner’s angles and force him to commit rather than allowing him to dance between defenders.