Stolen Base

A stolen base occurs when a baserunner successfully advances to the next base during a pitch to the batter, without the benefit of a hit, walk, error, or other batted ball.

How to Steal a Base

The stolen base requires:

1. Reading the pitcher: Timing their delivery
2. Getting a good jump: Exploding toward the next base
3. Speed: Outrunning the throw from the catcher
4. A good slide: Avoiding the tag

Keys to Stealing Successfully

The Jump

The jump is everything. A fast runner with a poor jump will get thrown out. A moderately fast runner with an excellent jump can be a great base stealer.

Reading the Pitcher

Base stealers look for:

• Patterns in the pitcher's delivery
• Tells (small movements that signal a pitch vs. pickoff)
• Slow deliveries to the plate
• High leg kicks

The Slide

• Head-first slides are faster but riskier
• Feet-first slides are safer
• Pop-up slides allow for immediate advancement if ball gets away

Stolen Base Records

• Single Season: Rickey Henderson (1982) to 130 stolen bases
• Career: Rickey Henderson: 1,406 stolen bases
• Highest Success Rate (min. 400 attempts): Carlos Beltrán: 88.3%

Caught Stealing (CS)

When a runner attempts to steal but is thrown out, it's recorded as "caught stealing." The best base stealers aim for at least a 75-80% success rate.

Types of Steals

• Straight steal: Traditional stolen base
• Delayed steal: Runner waits, then goes unexpectedly
• Double steal: Two runners steal simultaneously