Little League Pitcher's most "Creative" move (to get base stealer out)?

Question

There has to be a few things a little league pitcher (9-10 years old) can do to prevent base runners from stealing 2nd base! We don't have an accurate hard throwing catcher, so that means that once the pitcher lifts his leg during windup, and the first base coach sends his runner -- there is no realistic way to prevent the steal.

Here are some examples: (which may or may not be legal or may not make sence)

1. Make pitch use a VERY short wind-up. (I noticed that the speed of the ball during our pitcher's "pickoff move" is at least as fast if not faster than his normal pitch).

2. Come to set position, and start wind-up with foot off the rubber (hoping other team doesn't notice) -- then in mid wind-up, set foot back down and throw to second base.

3. Same as #2, but once pitcher is in set position, quickly move foot onto rubber and throw normal pitch to batter.

Let me know if you have better ideas and let me know if my ideas are legal...

Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

There are several ways to do this, but my personal favorite is one trick that will work if the other team doesn't pay attention very well. All you need to do is have your pitcher stand on the rubber facing first base, so that he looks like he is left-handed. This is perfectly legal, and will work if the other team doesn't pay attention.

Answer 2

#2 &3 would be a BALK. Here is a good trick that usually works at least once against every team . Have the pitcher throw the ball to first base with his pickoff move, then the first baseman acts like the ball gets past him (this is the key to making this work) the first baseman has to run towards the outfield or the fence and really sell that he has missed the ball. Usually young guys like your talking about will take off for second base, as long as your team can get the ball to second base its an easy out.I have been using this trick for years and with good sucess

Answer 3

It must be a new rule . Five years ago when I was coaching 9-10 year old kids the runner on first couldn't leave until the ball crossed the plate.
If what you're saying is true , then you risk a lot by trying to prevent the theft of one base;
The throw to first pulls your right fielder out of position, leaves a huge gap between first and second, move your second baseman over.
The throw to second moves your centerfielder out of position, moves your short stop , moves your second baseman and inevitably can result in a lot of unnecessary ball handling
Trying to pick off a runner can also result in having your pitcher lose of focus on the primary task, which is getting the batter out.
A ten year old kid has enough problems getting the ball over the plate w/o worrying about the guy on first.
Let it go

Answer 4

When I was in Little League you couldn't go until the ball crossed the plate. I guess things have changed (26 years ago).

Teach them to pitch from the stretch if it's that much of a concern. It's LL, come on. I think getting the ball across the plate should be priority 1. 9yr olds generally have a tough enough time doing that. If they can do that on a consistant basis then worry about runners stealing.

Answer 5

#2 and #3 are instant balks. Totally illegal. Have him pitch from the stretch position if it's a concern...I thought in Little League the runners can't take off until the pitch was released anyhow... am I wrong? anyone?

Answer 6

Okay thats a great couple of ideas if u want to get a balk called. Normally they cant steal till the ball is across the plate.

Answer 7

I am a little league pitcher