TAKE YOUR PICK

Jayden Davis doesn’t like to see opposing base runners reach second base, but if they’re getting a little too confident with their lead, the Nittany Lion second baseman knows there’s an opportunity to send them back to the dugout. Here are his tips on how to execute a clean pickoff play.

GET THE SIGNAL

An assistant coach will typically signal to the pitcher and the infielders that the play is on, factoring in the comfort level of the pitcher with the move and the base-stealing prowess of the runner or the size of his lead.

KNOW WHO THE PICKER IS

Right-handed hitters are more likely to pull the ball to the third-base side, which means the second baseman will take the throw from the pitcher. When a lefty is at bat, the shortstop takes the throw for the same reason.

TIME IT UP

On a standard timing pick play, the infielder breaks for the bag as the pitcher starts his throw, both two seconds after the pitcher comes set.

KEEP THE ROUTINE

Davis holds the runner on and retreats to his position the same way whether the pickoff play is on or not, which keeps current and 
potential base runners from learning pickoff cues.