"Dropping" the pop fly.

Runner on first with one out or no outs--that has to be the most common scenario that a defensive team will encounter during the course of a baseball or softball game.

The high school coach has to be constantly aware of the situation and have his team prepared for it. The defense is pretty basic, but we have always been surprised by the failure of coaches to avail themselves of perhaps the best strategic move in this situation: deliberately allowing the easy pop-up to fall to the ground untouched and then making the force play at second.

The primary purpose is simple: to replace the faster runner on first with the slower runner (the hitter). Unless a tricky wind condition exists or the pop fly has considerable spin on the ball, this tactic should be considered automatic.

Let us assume that with the bases empty and no one out, the batter gets a base hit or a walk and winds up at first. He is an exceptionally quick runner. The defense immediately evaluates the next hitter. If he is slower than the runner on first, the pop-fly stratagem will immediately go into effect.

The runner on first, no matter how quick he is, is not going to jeopardize himself by venturing too far from the bag on an easy infield pop. The infielder will camp under the pop-up as if ready to make the catch, and then step back at the last second, letting the ball fall to the ground in front of him. He will then pick up the ball and make the easy force out at second--replacing the faster runner with a slower one.

The other advantages are obvious:

1. You diminish the possibility of the runner at first scoring on an extra-base hit.

2. You greatly reduce the percentages of a successful steal of second base.

3. You significantly increase the percentages of another force out at second on a ball hit deep into the hole.

4. You decrease the possibility of a successful tag up on a fly ball.

5. With a slower runner at first, the pitcher is less likely to be distracted and can concentrate more intently on the batter.

As an experienced umpire (25 years), I have frequently observed another factor on this play. Aware of the sure catch on the easy pop-up, a disgusted batter will often make only a half-hearted attempt to run out the play. Result: an easy double-play for the defense.

BY CAL CAVALCANTE

Former Baseball Coach

Warren Western Reserve H.S.

Warren, OH