How to Throw Out a Base Stealer

Throwing out a base stealer in baseball is a challenge for any catcher. If you are prepared mentally and physically, you can have success at this integral part of the game. Here is how to throw out a base stealer.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Catcher's Mitt
• Patience
• Awareness
• Pitcher
• Base stealer

Throwing Out a Base Stealer

1. Position yourself to be able to throw. The biggest key to throwing out a base stealer is to have your feet and positioning correct behind the plate. A base stealer has an advantage if you are out of position. Take your feet and position them shoulder length apart and directly under your center. You want to remain on your toes and not on the backs of your feet. This will give you good balance for your throw.

2. Observe the base runner. As the base runner takes his lead, you should be looking for clues that he is stealing. Ask yourself these questions. Is he taking a larger lead than usual? Is he fidgeting with his hands? Is he watching the shortstop to see if he is moving over to cover second? If you answer yes to any of the previous questions you have three options. You may throw over to first by signaling your pitcher. You may pitch out to catch him running. You may call for a fast ball and attempt to throw him out. This will depend on the current count with the batter. If you have a pitch to waste, then pitch out. If not, then have your pitcher throw over.

3. Receive the pitch correctly. Assuming the base stealer has taken off during a pitch, then you must catch the ball first. This is the biggest problem with rookie catchers. They will attempt to begin to throw before catching the pitch. This causes passed balls and wild throws down to second base. Catch the ball first.

4. Step into your throw, and deliver a catchable ball. Once your base stealer is off and running, you will need to receive the ball, step forward and deliver a low, strong ball to the right side (your right) of the base. This will allow for the shortstop or second baseman to catch and tag in one motion.

Tips & Warnings

• Always keep your signs hidden by holding your legs close together.
• Watch the first base coach carefully when runners are on.
• Low throws are better than high throws.
• Many catchers have adopted styles where they throw from their knees. This is dangerous to your arm and should be avoided.
• Always throw over the top when throwing out a base stealer. This will keep your throw lower.