Ball players and managers “talk” with each other through the use of signals, which may be given by voice, or by body movements. However they’re given, the “Signs” should be both simple and complicated; simple for the team using them, complicated for the opposition. That’s a contradiction, of course. The point is this: a team cannot use a set of signals that are hard to “read” or someone will surely miss one at a crucial moment. On the other hand, they cannot be so easy to read that the opposing team can steal them.

There’s a neat way of getting around this, rest assured. But, let’s take a look at what some of these signs might be, keeping in mind that any one might be associated with a play, such as the Bunt, Steal, Hit-and-Run, etc.

If the 3rd base coach is giving the Signs-and he’s the best person to do it because he can be seen easily by the batter and base runner-he might:

Touch the peak of his cap with the right hand (left hand or both hands).

Touch the letters of his uniform shirt with his right hand (left hand or both hands).

Tug his belt with his right hand (left hand or both hands).

Move his right hand downward over right thigh (left hand or both hands).

Put flesh-against-flesh (clap hands, rub hands together, touch face with hand).

Turn back to hitter and walk away.

Put both hands on knees (or hips).

Call out batter’s last name (or runner’s).

Touch right elbow with left hand (or left elbow with right hand).

Cup hands to mouth and flash teeth at hitter or runner. “Use A Key”. Baseball Training - Read More.