The Perfect Pivot

The perfect pivot

mysportsguru.com

When used as a baseball term, the pivot means that the second baseman should receive and get rid of the ball by throwing it accurately to the first baseman in the fastest time possible.

Actually every member of the team will use a pivot at one time or another, but the term is principally used in reference to the second baseman and the double play.

It is impossible to outline a routine for making the pivot as so many factors are involved. The size of the player, his agility, speed of foot, ability to throw from all angles, speed of hands, arm strength and other physical and mental factors determine the manner in which a pivot is made. The pivot lacks uniformity from every angle except one—the approach to the base.

The pivot lacks uniformity from every angle...

When time permits it is generally agreed that the second baseman will break fast and maneuver to a position practically in line with the second and third base bags. When approaching he will slow down to keep the bag in front and very slightly to the left of him until the flight of the ball is determined. He will then advance to or cross the bag, positioning himself to receive and throw as he advances. With the bag in front and slightly to his left, his maneuver should direct the momentum of his body in the direction of first base and eliminate the need to throw across the body.

There is no substitute for work and practice with your second base combination. The more play, they make in practice the better they understand each other's capabilities, and the better they will execute plays. Have your combination in the field handling the ball and working together at every opportunity. Throws to your fielder should be waist high. He then has a better opportunity to position himself to receive and get rid of the ball with the least effort and in the fastest possible time.

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