Defensive Shift Reference
Six pre-set defensive looks. Filled circles show fielders that have moved from the standard alignment. Use the call name from the dugout — every player knows where to go.
Standard Alignment
When: Default. Even count, contact hitter, no scouting tendency to override.
P
C
1B
2B
SS
3B
LF
CF
RF
- OF play their pole-equidistant position
- IF on the dirt at normal depth
- P at the rubber, C low and balanced
Pull-Hitter Shift (RHB)
When: Right-handed pull hitter, fastball count, lefty on the mound.
P
C
1B
2B
SS
3B
LF
CF
RF
- 3B and SS shade hard to the line
- CF shifts hard to LCF gap
- 2B holds up the middle to cover 2B / SS hole
Pull-Hitter Shift (LHB)
When: Left-handed pull hitter, righty on the mound, pitcher working in.
P
C
1B
2B
SS
3B
LF
CF
RF
- 2B plays in short right field
- SS slides up the middle
- 1B holds the bag — covers the line
No-Doubles (Late, Up by 1-2)
When: Late innings, lead of 1-2 runs, tying run not on base.
P
C
1B
2B
SS
3B
LF
CF
RF
- OF play deep, on the lines
- Singles allowed; no balls over your head
- Corner IFs guard the lines
Infield In · Hold the Run
When: Runner on 3B, less than 2 outs, run cannot score.
P
C
1B
2B
SS
3B
LF
CF
RF
- All four IFs charge to the cut of the grass
- Throws home on any ground ball
- Late-game tag plays — accuracy > velocity
Bunt-On Coverage
When: Likely bunt situation: runner on 1B / 1B+2B, fast bunter, sacrifice count.
P
C
1B
2B
SS
3B
LF
CF
RF
- Corners cheat in 3-5 steps
- Middle IFs cover bags
- Pitcher prepared to charge the ball
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