Third base: the hot corner
The hardest-hit balls on the field come at you — and you get no time to think.
The rule: Knock it down first. There is no play if the ball gets past you.
The hot corner
The ball gets to you faster than anywhere.
Right-handed hitters pull their hardest swings straight at third base. You are close, the ball is scalded, and there is no time to think — react, knock it down, then make your play. Even off balance, you are still close enough to your bag.
The long throw
First base is a rocket away.
Your throw across the diamond is the longest infield throw. Glove it, set your feet, and let it go — a hurried lob gets there late, but a planted, strong throw beats any runner.
Charge!
Slow rollers and bunts are yours to attack.
Anything dying in the grass on your side — go get it. Charge hard, scoop it, throw on the run. And remember: a slow roller means the force ahead is gone. Take the sure out at first.
Own your bag
Sometimes the out is under your feet.
Runners on first and second and the ball hit to you? You are standing a step from the lead force. Step on third — lead runner gone, no throw needed, and the force is still on behind you.
Bases loaded, hot shot.
Bases loaded, nobody out, hard grounder right at you. Every base has a force — pick the one that saves the run. Tap it.