303 AVOIDING THE PICK OFF

Try to detect something in the pitcher's delivery that might tip you off when he is going to throw over.

Leading off from first-base.
1. If, the pitcher is left handed many times they will lift the heel first of their
    right foot, before throwing over. (For most right handed pitchers this is the
    only way they can pivot, turn and throw.)
2. Some pitchers have perfected their move to first by taking their stretch
    position and in one motion they spin, jump and throw to first. He may tip
    this move to you by his left shoulder moving first.
3. Many pitchers when throwing home, drop their chin first. Watch their head
    to see if this happens.
4. Some left handed pitchers who have a good move to first look at first when
    they are going home and look at home when they are going to throw over to
    first.
Leading off from second-base
1. When you are on second base the lead off is not as important as when on
     first base. (You do not have to break-up a potential double play.)
2   Keep you eye on the pitcher and ears trained to your coaches, if a play is
     on you to pick you off, will have time to get back with their vocal
     commands.

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