What Is A Pitching Out In Baseball (Learn From Coach)

Baseball can be intimidating, especially if you have not been introduced to the game before. One of the first things you will hear while watching baseball is pitches. So what are different pitches in baseball, and what is a pitching out in baseball? 

These are the first questions to arise if you are fascinated by baseball and want to enjoy the game. Understanding the rules of the game is the first step to take. As an ex-baseball player and a current coach, I can understand how difficult the game may seem for newcomers. 

Just like any other skill, taking one step at a time is the drill to understanding baseball. In this blog, we will discuss baseball pitches and pitching out in baseball so that you can enjoy watching baseball games next summer with your friends at Yankee Stadium.

What is a Pitching Out in Baseball?

It is said that there are thirty different types of outs in baseball. However, all these outs can be put in various categories. With so many outs in line, what is pitching out in baseball?

A pitch-out occurs when a ball is intentionally thrown outside the strike zone. The balls can be thrown higher than expected, and they are difficult for the batter to hit and run. 

A perfectly executed pitch-out not only obstructs hitting it but also makes it easier for the catcher to catch the ball and throw it to a base in order to prevent a stolen base.

When the pitch is thrown outside the strike zone and caught, the catcher gets a chance to aim for the base without any interruption from the batter or pitcher. 

In pitch out, the catcher can mainly catch the ball in a standing position. This means they can throw the ball at the base with more force than in a squat position. 

Moreover,  the ball is so far away from the batter that it gives the catcher plenty of space to execute a perfect throw to stop the base from being stolen. 

How a Pitch-Out Works

The pitch-out begins with a premeditated signal from the catcher or the dugout, letting the pitcher know the plan. Here’s how it works step by step:

• Pitcher’s Role: The pitcher delivers the ball intentionally outside the strike zone. Unlike a regular pitch that aims to challenge the batter, a pitch-out is thrown wide enough so that the batter cannot easily swing at it.
• Catcher’s Role: As the pitcher winds up, the catcher stands up from their crouched position and moves sideways toward the spot where the ball is expected. The catcher’s priority here is to catch the ball and make a quick, accurate throw to the base to stop the runner. Their stance and positioning are crucial to ensure they can respond swiftly.
• Defensive Setup: Infielders, especially the second baseman or shortstop, will be ready to receive the throw. They anticipate the runner’s move and position themselves to apply the tag when the ball arrives.

A pitch-out aims to give the defense the upper hand, but it comes with risks. If the opposing team isn’t attempting a steal or hit-and-run, the pitch-out could give the batter a favorable count, which increases their chances of getting a hit later in the at-bat.

Situations for Using a Pitch-Out

Managers typically call for a pitch-out in specific scenarios, especially when they suspect the offensive team is about to attempt a stolen base or hit-and-run. The decision often depends on the game situation, including:

• When the opposing team has fast base runners: If a speedy runner like Trea Turner or Ronald Acuña Jr. is on first base, the defense might suspect they’re planning to steal second. A pitch-out can give the catcher the extra time needed to throw them out before they reach the next base.
• During hit-and-run attempts: If the offensive team is trying to execute a hit-and-run (where the runner takes off and the batter tries to make contact), a pitch-out disrupts this play. The wide pitch makes it difficult for the batter to hit the ball, often leaving the runner stranded between bases.
• Late-game close situations: Pitch-outs are commonly seen in the late innings of close games, where one run could decide the outcome. Preventing a stolen base becomes critical, and managers will take the risk of giving up a ball to protect their lead or keep the game within reach.

Pitch-outs are rare, but when used effectively, they can be a game-changer by preventing base runners from gaining easy ground or disrupting offensive plays.

Strategic Use of a Pitch-Out

The decision to execute a pitch-out is not made lightly—it involves a mix of strategy, observation, and gut instinct. A manager or catcher may call for a pitch-out when they notice patterns in the opposing team’s behavior.

For example, some base runners are notorious for attempting steals when they think the pitcher isn’t paying close attention. If the defense suspects a steal or hit-and-run play is coming, they’ll use a pitch-out to counteract it.

1. Reading the Opponent

Pitchers and managers pay close attention to runners on base. For instance, a fast runner leading off at first base may give subtle clues that they’re planning to steal. Things like taking a bigger lead, positioning themselves aggressively, or moving early can all trigger the decision to pitch out.

Additionally, teams may analyze a batter’s tendencies. For example, if a batter is part of a hit-and-run scheme, they might swing more aggressively early in the count. By identifying these tendencies, the defensive team can gain an edge.

2. Risk and Reward

However, the pitch-out isn’t foolproof. If the defense guesses wrong and there’s no stolen base attempt or hit-and-run play in motion, the team essentially gives up a free ball to the batter.

This changes the count and can put the pitcher at a disadvantage, especially against powerful hitters. This is why pitch-outs are used sparingly—too many failed attempts can shift the momentum in favor of the offense, putting pressure on the pitcher.

In the past, before modern analytics took hold of the game, pitch-outs were used more frequently. Today, teams rely heavily on data and probabilities to decide when a pitch-out makes sense, reducing the number of blind guesses and maximizing their chances for success.

How to Pitch Out in Baseball?

In pitch out, the catcher catches the ball before it reaches the player on first base. Only a pitcher with excellent pitching technique and timing can execute a perfect pitch out. 

The pitcher throws the ball at an angle where the catcher can catch the ball easily and can throw it at second base without getting obstructed by any other players on the field. The ball reaches the base before the base runner steals the base. Hence they get thrown out. 

Famous Pitch-Outs in Baseball History

Pitch-outs may not dominate highlight reels like home runs or diving catches, but there have been several memorable instances where a perfectly timed pitch-out played a pivotal role in the outcome of a game.

These moments underscore the tactical brilliance of the maneuver and how it can turn the tide in critical situations.

Notable Moments in MLB History

One of the most famous pitch-outs occurred during the 1998 National League Championship Series between the San Diego Padres and the Atlanta Braves.

Padres catcher Carlos Hernández threw out Braves’ runner Michael Tucker on a pitch-out, preventing the Braves from advancing the runner and helping San Diego secure a victory that propelled them into the World Series. This high-pressure situation demonstrated the tactical importance of pitch-outs in key playoff moments, where even the smallest mistake can have game-altering consequences.

Another notable example comes from the 2019 season, where New York Yankees catcher Gary Sánchez executed a textbook pitch-out to catch the Houston Astros’ José Altuve attempting to steal second base.

In this game, the Yankees were facing one of the fastest and most dangerous base runners in Altuve. By recognizing the Astros’ plan, Sánchez’s pitch-out not only shut down a potential scoring opportunity but also shifted the momentum in favor of the Yankees.

These moments stand as reminders that even though pitch-outs may not happen often, they can have a significant impact when used correctly.

Pros and Cons of a Pitch-Out

Like any defensive play in baseball, pitch-outs come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the pros and cons of a pitch-out helps explain why teams use them sparingly and with strategic intent.

Pros of a Pitch-Out

• Catching Base Stealers: The primary advantage of a pitch-out is giving the catcher a better chance to throw out a base stealer. By delivering the pitch wide and outside the strike zone, the catcher is better positioned to throw to second or third base quickly and accurately.
• Disrupting Offensive Plays: A well-timed pitch-out can completely disrupt a hit-and-run attempt, leaving the runner exposed and the batter at a disadvantage. The defense can turn the tables on the offense by anticipating these plays and forcing the runner to retreat or be caught stealing.
• Psychological Impact: The psychological effect of a successful pitch-out can’t be underestimated. When a team knows their stolen base attempts are being thwarted, it can force them to reconsider their aggressive base-running strategy for the rest of the game. This change in tactics can benefit the defense by reducing scoring opportunities.

Cons of a Pitch-Out

• Wasted Pitches: One of the main risks of a pitch-out is that if the offensive team wasn’t planning a steal or hit-and-run, the defense has essentially given the batter a free ball. This can change the count to the batter’s advantage, making it harder for the pitcher to execute a successful at-bat.
• Predictability: If a team relies too heavily on pitch-outs, the offense can begin to predict when they’re coming. Savvy base runners may adjust their timing or even fake a steal attempt to draw a pitch-out, only to remain on base and force the defense into a weaker position.
• Risk to the Pitcher: A pitch-out is a high-risk play, especially if it puts the pitcher in a bad count. For instance, if the count is 2-1 or 3-1 after a pitch-out, the pitcher is pressured to throw a strike, giving the batter a more favorable chance to swing at the next pitch. This can lead to walks or even a poorly executed strike, leaving the pitcher vulnerable.

Despite the risks, when used in the right circumstances, a pitch-out can be an invaluable tool in a team’s defensive arsenal.

Tips for Recognizing a Pitch-Out as a Fan

For fans watching the game, recognizing when a pitch-out is coming can add an extra layer of excitement. While it’s a subtle tactic, there are some key signs to watch for that signal a pitch-out may be on the way.

Catcher’s Positioning

One of the biggest giveaways is the catcher’s behavior. During a normal pitch, the catcher stays crouched and behind the plate. However, during a pitch-out, the catcher will start to stand up and move slightly outside, signaling to the pitcher that a pitch-out is being called. If you notice the catcher suddenly rising from their stance before the pitcher throws the ball, a pitch-out is likely about to happen.

The Pitcher’s Wind-Up

While pitchers try to keep their delivery consistent to avoid tipping their pitches, a pitch-out often looks a bit different. The pitcher may slightly alter their body language, knowing the goal is not to throw a strike but to deliver the ball quickly and wide. Some pitchers may glance more frequently toward the base runners before delivering a pitch-out, especially if they suspect a steal is imminent.

Defensive Shifts

Infielders, particularly the second baseman and shortstop, will often shift or reposition themselves when a pitch-out is called. They may start moving toward the base they expect the throw to go, preparing for the catcher’s quick throw. As a fan, if you see these defensive shifts combined with the catcher’s movements, it’s a clear sign a pitch-out is coming.

Final Word

We hope our small effort of explaining what is a pitching out in baseball will help you dive into the sport. Baseball is a classic American sport played by people regardless of age and gender. 

Understanding the pitches will help you get a better idea about the sport, and you will be able to enjoy the game to the fullest. Although it can look a little tricky initially, but after you get the basics, there is no looking back. 

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