Pickoff at First (1-3)
P → 1B, tag at first
The standard pickoff. The pitcher comes set, then makes a quick, accurate throw to the first baseman holding the runner, who applies a fast low tag.
Press Watch the Play to run the sequence, or tap any player to study their job.
All 9 jobs
Ball Bag Backup
-
P
Pitcher Ball
Come set, hold, then make a quick chest-high throw to the first baseman's glove at the bag.
-
C
Catcher Bag
Watch the runner's lead, call the throw, and be ready if he breaks for second.
-
1B
First Base Bag
Hold the runner on, give a low target, take the throw, and apply a quick tag.
-
2B
Second Base Bag
Cover second base in case the runner breaks on the throw.
-
3B
Third Base Bag
Cover third base and stay alert for a trick play.
-
SS
Shortstop Backup
Slide behind second base to back up the throw.
-
LF
Left Field Backup
Read the throw and back up first base from the outfield.
-
CF
Center Field Backup
Drift toward second base to back up an overthrow.
-
RF
Right Field Backup
Sprint in behind first base to back up the pickoff throw.
Coaching notes
A pickoff is timing and accuracy, not heat — a chest-high throw the runner must dive back to beats a 'wild' one into the dugout.
Hold-and-throw reps with a runner taking a lead; vary the timing so the pitcher isn't predictable, first baseman works a quick low tag.
A lazy throw the runner reads easily, or a rushed one that sails — the out comes from disguising the timing, not the velocity.