In contemplating a steal, each coach must consider the following questions:
What is the ability of the runner?
How good is the pitcher's move to first base?
Can the hitter move the runner to the next base?
Is the steal worth the risk?
Does the situation warrant the attempted steal?
Stealing Second - Getting the jump on the pitcher: A good base runner gets the jump on the pitcher by studying their moves. If the pitcher commits themselves with a move towards the batter, they have to throw home or a balk is called by the umpire. As soon as the runner sees the pitcher start their move to the plate, they can be off and running.
Cross-Over: When the runner decides to go, they pivot on the right foot and cross-over with the left leg. In breaking for second base, runners should swing their left arm towards the next base as they begin their cross-over. The arm action pulls their body around and enables them to take a good first stride with their left foot. The runner's weight should be forward with their legs driving hard.
Glance: When the runner breaks towards second base on the steal, they must glance towards the plate after taking a few steps. This will help them decide whether to return to first (i.e. line drive or fly ball), slide into second, or round it and try for third (i.e. pass ball).
Stealing Third: Stealing third base is probably easier than stealing second and a right-handed batter will make the throw more difficult for the catcher. A runner can score in more ways from third than second, but if they are thrown out attempting to steal, a potential run is removed. For this reason most coaches are content to leave the runner on second.
