Once a pitcher has completed their follow through they should be in a good athletic fielding position.
COMEBACKERS – THROW TO 1B
Pitchers become a fielder and the same principles apply. In the case of a pitcher who fields the balls on the mound, move the flat ground, step toward the target, releases the ball and follow the throw. You have time, so encourage good feet and a firm throw.
COMEBACKERS – THROW TO 2B
Stress to your pitchers that even when attempting to turn a double play on a comebacker they have plenty of time to relax and make an accurate throw. Make sure that they don’t get lazy with their footwork and always move their feet in the direction of the intended target.
PITCHERS COVERING 1B
The pitcher runs hard to a point near the baseline about 10-12 feet from the bag and then turns and runs parallel to the line. When the pitcher feels they are under control they raise their glove to present to first base who flips the ball to the pitcher as they run down the line and before they get to the bag if possible. If first base fails to field the ball cleanly or has fielded and thrown the ball to second base to turn a double play, the pitcher should stop at the bag and make the play like first base. If receiving the ball on the move up the foul line, once the out has been made, the pitcher should aim to stop by chopping their steps, turn back into the field of play looking for the possible next play. At no time should the pitcher cross the foul line.
BUNTS
The pitcher fields the bunt properly, generates momentum toward the intended target, releases the ball and follows the throw. Stress footwork. On bunts to the first base side, a right-hander opens up to first base before fielding the ball, generating momentum toward the target and throwing. A left-hander places the left foot between the ball and the foul line and slowly turns the body toward the glove side to make the throw (don’t open too far; still point the front shoulder and generate momentum toward the target).
Reverse the footwork on bunts to the third base side. Once you have rounded up the ball, planted your feet, get your grip, you need to rock and throw as you have less time than a bunt down the first base line.
BACKING UP
Overthrows will happen from the outfield and cut-offs. Expect an overthrow by backing up all bases to reduce the chance or runners advancing or scoring.