Rundown

A rundown occurs when a baserunner is caught between two bases with fielders on both sides. The defense attempts to tag the runner out while the runner tries to advance or retreat to safety. Also called a "pickle" or "hot box."

The Goal: Fewer Throws

The golden rule of rundowns:

Get the out in one or two throws, maximum.

Every additional throw increases the chance of:

• An errant throw
• The runner escaping
• Other runners advancing

Basic Rundown Mechanics

The Chase

1. Fielder with ball runs directly at the runner
2. Hold ball high and visible (fake throw stance)
3. Run hard to force the runner to commit
4. Make the runner run BACK toward the base they came from

The Throw

1. Throw early, before getting too close
2. Aim chest-high to receiving fielder
3. Throw to the glove side
4. Peel off to avoid collision

The Tag

1. Receiver catches while moving toward runner
2. Apply tag with two hands
3. Keep ball secure through the tag
4. Show the umpire the catch

Positioning: The "Lanes" Concept

Inside vs. Outside Lanes

Fielders work in staggered lanes to avoid collisions:

• Ball carrier: Inside lane (toward infield)
• Receiver: Outside lane (toward outfield)
• After the throw: Swap positions for backup

Rotation Pattern

1. Thrower peels off after releasing
2. Goes behind the receiver
3. Becomes next backup
4. Cycle continues until tag is made

Common Rundown Situations

Between First and Second

• Typical cause: Pickoff attempt, caught stealing
• Primary fielders: 1B and SS/2B
• Key: Drive runner back to first

Between Second and Third

• Typical cause: Runner caught rounding, delayed steal
• Primary fielders: SS and 3B
• Key: Quick resolution, watch other runners

Between Third and Home

• Typical cause: Squeeze play failed, bad jump
• Primary fielders: 3B and C
• Key: Get this out: a run is at stake

Rundown Mistakes to Avoid

For Fielders

• ❌ Pumping (fake throwing) too many times
• ❌ Throwing across the runner's face
• ❌ Running too close before throwing
• ❌ Throwing behind the receiver

For the Team

• ❌ Too many players involved
• ❌ Forgetting other baserunners
• ❌ No backup at each base
• ❌ Poor lane discipline (collision risk)

Teaching Rundowns to Youth

Start Simple: 1-3-1

The "1-3-1" drill means:

• 1 throw if possible
• 3 players involved maximum
• 1 backup at each base

Key Phrases

• "Run him back!"
• "Ball up!" (show the ball high)
• "Now!" (when to throw)
• "Tag!"

Common Youth Issues

1. Throwing too late: Practice the "run hard, throw early" timing
2. Chasing too long: Set a "throw line" in practice
3. Tunnel vision: Assign someone to watch other runners
4. Ball drops: Emphasize two-hand catches and tags

Advanced Rundown Tips

Reading the Runner

• Watch their eyes, they'll look where they want to go
• Pump fake only ONCE to freeze them
• Accelerate when they commit

Communication

• Call "GOING!" when throwing
• Point at the base you're covering
• Loud, clear commands throughout

The Escape Attempt

When the runner tries to dodge:

• Stay in your lane
• Don't lunge, stay balanced
• Let your partner adjust