PLATE STUDY DECK

Question 1

PLATE:

When do I give the “I’m staying home” pre-pitch signal?

Answer 1

In general, when:

• there are bases loaded
• there are multiple runners on (noting that with R1/R2 on and U3 chasing, I will not stay home)
• there is a runner on third that has the potential to tag-up and score from 3B

Question 2

PLATE:

• Runner on 1st with less than two outs
• U1 chases

What do I do?

Answer 2

With less than 2 outs:

• Move to a primary calling position for plays at 1B.
• Return home when R1 is headed to 3B.
• Take plays at home.

With 2 outs:

• Move back to point of plate, and prepare to get to a calling position for a play at home plate.

Question 3

PLATE:

True or False: I have all line drives to the pitcher, 1B and 3B.

Answer 3

FALSE

I have responsibility for line drives to these three positions only when they are coming in at me.

Question 4

PLATE:

Are there ever any situations where I will need to cover 3B on a play where U1 goes out on a trouble ball?

Answer 4

No.

Any time U1 goes out for outfield ball coverage, there is no potential for me to head to 3B.

Question 5

PLATE:

True or False: With a runner on 3B only, I always need to come up to third when U3 goes out on a trouble ball.

Answer 5

FALSE

The only time I come up to 3B with a runner on third only is when there are 2 outs. Anything other than two outs in that scenario, I should have communicated I’ll be “staying home.”

Question 6

Pre-Pitch:

On line drives to the infield, should I take an extra second to make eye contact with my partner(s) in the area to verify before signaling a ruling on the play?

Answer 6

YES

In almost all cases, that extra second of visual crew communication will help prevent double/conflicting calls on line drives that border different coverage areas (i.e. 3B making a play diving in, but also back toward the third base line, etc…).