Examples of Situational Awareness
With two outs, runners should always be moving on contact.
With less than two outs, you may hold at third on a shallow fly ball.
Against a slow outfielder, you might stretch a single into a double.
Combining Base Running with Situational Awareness
Separately, both skills are useful. Together, they become lethal. Here’s how to integrate them effectively:
1. Reading the Outfield
A base hit to left field with a slow fielder gives you a chance to send your runner from first to third. By paying attention to outfield arm strength ratings and your runner’s speed, you can take bases most opponents won’t.
2. Recognizing Pitcher Habits
If your opponent rarely checks runners, take bigger leads and attempt more steals. Conversely, if they’re constantly throwing over, shorten your lead until you see a pattern.
3. Adjusting to Game Context
Early Innings: Play conservative—don’t risk outs at third base.
Late Innings, Down a Run: Push the envelope—take that extra base, even if the odds are only 60/40.
4. Avoiding Double Plays
Knowing when to run on contact, when to slide, and when to hold back is crucial. Situational awareness ensures you minimize double plays, a major killer of momentum.
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