Most of the time, on smaller Little League fields, double cuts may not be necessary. But as the larger fields or fields with no fences come into play, double cuts are needed.
As you can see in this example, on a ball hit in the gap, the shortstop and second baseman move over in tandem to relay the ball. The second baseman (or trailing cut) always keeps position 15 feet behind the shortstop (lead cut).
You can also see in this video, the three possible redirections: PLATE, 3rd and 2nd. Coaches and players alike should always try and see the play from a larger angle, and decide where the best possible out can be as its relates to the situation.
As the throw comes in, the lead cut moves to RELAY the throw. However, in order to make the cleanest relay possible, the shortstop may let the throw through to the second baseman if the ball appears to be:
- Going over his head
- Going to short hop him
In both cases, the trailing cut acts as a securtiy measure. If a high throw gets past the shortstop, chances are the 2nd baseman will be in a pretty good position. Same goes for the short hop. Remember, any bounce or bobble will cost you the base, so practice this coverage well!
TRAILING THE RUNNER: Watch the 1b closely in the video. As the batter runs by, the 1b will trail him to the bag in the event the batter may take a wide turn and a possible backpick opportunity at 2nd.
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