“The Double Steal”

The Cotuit Kettleers pulled of 3 sets of “The Double Steal” in last night’s game (July 14th) vs. the Orleans Firebirds. The Double Steal is a fun play to see executed. However, the runners must understand how the timing works from 2nd and 1st base, what the runner at 2nd base must do to have an excellent jump, and the runner at 1st base must key in on what to look for to make sure the lead runner is definitely making the break for 3rd and does not pull up when they do not have a good jump.
First, both runners must get the signal. Next, the lead runner should shorten their lead, decoy the pitcher by leaning on their left leg as if returning to 2nd base, and then explode onto their right leg so their legs are fired and at full speed within three steps. The runner at 1st base must have a good lead so when the runner at 2nd does decide to run they do not get throw out on the back side of the double steal.
The last double steal had Kevin Keyes, Univ. of Texas outfielder on 2nd, and Cameron Rupp, University of Texas catcher on 1st, of which neither has outstanding speed. But, Kevin has very quick feet and had a great jump toward 3rd base and Cameron read Kevin’s jump very well and both slid in safely without a throw. The steal of 3rd does not require great speed but does require “Excellent Baseball Instincts.”