R3 Movements

[yawetag]

I know why R3's are taught to lead-off in foul territory, but why are they taught to cut into fair territory before retreating back to 3B after the pitch?

[UmpTTS43]

I know why R3's are taught to lead-off in foul territory, but why are they taught to cut into fair territory before retreating back to 3B after the pitch?

To position himself in line with a possible throw. In the event that there is a throw from F2 to F5 on a back pick, with R3 retreating in fair territory it makes F2 throw to either side of the line rather than straight up the line giving R3 a bit more time to retreat.

[UmpJM]

Andrew,

I believe it's because it increases the difficulty of a "snap throw" pick-off attempt by the catcher.

JM

[yawetag]

Makes sense. It always seemed like a wasted move, as going straight back to the bag would be faster. However, trying to get in the way of the throw makes sense.