First & Third

First & Third: Run-and-Hold

Trap R1 in a rundown; hold R3 at third

The runner on first takes off. Instead of throwing it around, the defense traps him in a rundown between first and second — and holds the runner at third the whole time.

Speed

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All 9 jobs

Ball Bag Backup

P

Pitcher Backup

Trail in to back up the rundown and watch the runner at third.
C

Catcher Ball

Throw down to the shortstop, but keep your eyes on the runner at third.
1B

First Base Bag

Close the rundown from the first-base end.
2B

Second Base Ball

Take the throw or run the trapped runner, glancing at the runner on third.
3B

Third Base Ball

Hold the runner on third and take a snap throw if he breaks.
SS

Shortstop Bag

Receive at second and start the rundown on the runner from first.
LF

Left Field Backup

Back up the play.
CF

Center Field Backup

Back up second base.
RF

Right Field Backup

Back up first base.

Coaching notes

Key point

Run-and-hold: trap the runner from first in a rundown but NEVER lose sight of the runner at third — the rundown's whole job is to hold him.

Drill

First-and-third with R1 stealing: the defense executes the rundown while a coach sends R3 on any careless throw — punish the lapse.

Watch for

Defenders chasing the rundown with their backs to third — one fielder always faces the runner at third.