How to Steal Second Base Against a Right-Handed Pitcher

Some people say that to win a baseball game, the pitcher has to have a pitcher who throws fast balls, while keeping control of them at the same time. Others argue that the team must have hitters, who are capable of hitting home-runs. While both of these are true, the main trick into winning ball games is getting the base runners into scoring position. Knowing when to steal second base is an important key factor in the sport.

The biggest advantage when the pitcher is a right-handed one is he is facing away from and has his back to first base. Since it is harder for him to keep you in sight, you can get a bigger lead on him. To prevent a steal or to pick off the runner, the right handed pitcher has to swivel his body around to throw towards first.

Each pitcher is different from the other. During the game observe, when what he does when you are waiting for your turn at the bat, observe what he does. He may be one who is conscious about his surroundings. He may look toward first base each time before he throws the ball. Then again, he may be the one who only concentrates of the batter. He may have only one pitch that he uses during the game. He may have a variety of pitches. By observing his stance before throwing the ball or catching the hand signals the catcher is sending him, you will know when it is at your advantage to steal.

While a pitcher can be predictable, you also can also be the same. When you show the signs that you are going to steal second base, he will be ready to throw the ball. You have to confuse the pitcher by not sending obvious signals. Do this by making false attempts to steal; this will confuse the pitcher.

Just before the pitcher throws the ball take a lead off first base. Make sure that you do not take too big off a lead in case the pitcher throws the ball towards first. You have to give yourself plenty of time to get back to the base. When you take a lead each time, the pitcher will never know when you are going to attempt a steal. You also can judge each pitch, knowing if you can safely reach second base or head back to first.

Start the steal when the pitcher begins to throw the ball towards the batter. If he notices you stealing and throws the ball towards first base, you will be awarded second base on a balk. Once he starts a pitch, he must complete it.

Once you have started to steal, never stop and go back to first. Just by changing the motion, gives enough time for the catcher to get the ball to first base before you can safely return. Continue running towards second. Even if it looks like that you will be out, you have the option to slide. Since there is no force on first base, the fielders have to touch you with the ball. By sliding, you can prevent contact with the ball.

Baseball takes a lot of skill and training. This includes learning how to steal second base. By including this in your practices, you will learn the best ways to get into scoring position.