First & Third

First & Third: Concede the Run, Take the Out

Throw through to 2B; bank the out, let R3 score

Sometimes the right play is the simple one: throw straight through to second, take the sure out, and concede the run from third. A pre-pitch team decision based on score and outs.

Speed

0 / 3

Press Watch the Play to run the sequence, or tap any player to study their job.

All 9 jobs

Ball Bag Backup

P

Pitcher Backup

Stay out of the throwing lane and back up the play.
C

Catcher Ball

Throw straight through to second for the out — you've conceded the run, so don't gamble.
1B

First Base Bag

Trail the batter-runner and cover first.
2B

Second Base Bag

Cover second, take the throw, and apply the tag.
3B

Third Base Bag

Cover third base.
SS

Shortstop Backup

Back up the throw at second.
LF

Left Field Backup

Back up the play.
CF

Center Field Backup

Back up second base.
RF

Right Field Backup

Back up second base from the right.

Coaching notes

Key point

Know the score and the outs BEFORE the pitch — sometimes the smart play is to concede the run and bank the out, no heroics.

Drill

Situation cards: call out score/outs/inning and have the team shout the plan (cut, throw-through, or concede) before each rep.

Watch for

A defense that 'concedes' but then airmails second anyway — if you're taking the out, make the routine throw and get it.