The second baseman has to be the most agile, acrobatic individual on the ball club. No other player, in carrying out his assignment, need shift direction as sharply, quickly and as many times as the second sacker. It’s “Jack be nimble, Jack be quick” every moment.

Our second sacker is the key to the double play, one of the most powerful defensive maneuvers in baseball. That’s why old-time sportswriters often referred to him as “guardian of the keystone.”

We’re going to concentrate here on the footwork used to make the DP from this strategically important infield position. Primarily, three things are involved: Get to the base quickly so the shortstop or third baseman doesn’t have to hold up his throw. Tag the base while in possession of the ball. Make a strong throw from a point away from the base.

The third item, of course, is the toughest, although the professionals make it look easy. The professional can use six or more different steps to make the DP. The amateur should learn at least three.

The spot where the shortstop fields the ball generally tells the second baseman which step he must use; it indicates whether he is to go “inside” the diamond to make his throw, “out” (toward center field), or “back” (toward right field).

To go “inside,” the second baseman puts his left foot on the bag and propels his body into the diamond as far as possible. Naturally, he lands on his right foot. As he does so, he shifts his weight to that right foot, then strides left toward 1st and makes the throw. Baseball Training - Read More.