In fact, the throw down from the catcher to second base is typically one of the most exciting plays in all of baseball. The runner on first base has a huge opportunity to steal second, and if he does so without getting caught, it often leads to a run for his team.

But who covers during a thrown down from the catcher? The second baseman or shortstop?

The answer depends to a large extent on the batter at the plate.

If the batter is right-handed, the second baseman will cover. But if the batter is left-handed, it’s usually up to the shortstop to make that crucial play.

Why the difference?

Because a right-handed batter more likely blocks the catcher’s view of the shortstop, while a lefty hitter makes it more difficulty for the (usually) right-handed-throwing catcher to target the second baseman, who is lined up more to the catcher’s right.

No matter which middle infielder is responsible for this baseball task, the other one needs to back up the play in case of a wild throw or a gaffe by the primary fielder.

The first goal of the fielder covering second base on a throw down from the catcher is to catch or deflect the ball, and then apply tag.

Once the play at second is resolved, the fielder should turn his attention to the other bases to make sure no other plays are developing. If necessary, he can throw to first, third, or home to try to get an out.

Eventually, the ball goes back to the pitcher to get ready for the next pitch.

All of this action usually unfolds in the matter of a few seconds and can leave fans, players, coaches, and even umpires breathless with excitement.

Caught Napping?

The throw down is often used when a base runner has been caught off the bag during a pitch, having strayed too far from their position. In this case, the catcher may step in front of home plate and quickly throw the ball to a base fielder to tag out the unsuspecting player before they can get back to second or third base. The key element of the play is that the catcher usually takes a few steps towards the runner before throwing down, in order to surprise them and make catching the ball an easier task on the other end.

Technically, a throw down can happen at first base, second, or third.

You’re Out! Or … Crime Doesn’t Pay

A throw down is also sometimes used when runners are attempting to steal bases during pitches. In this case, the catcher may step out of their crouch position and quickly throw down to second or third base.

Which Catchers Threw Out the Most Runners?

In Major League Baseball, the catcher with the most caught-stealings in one season was Ivan Rodriguez who threw out 48 runners in 1999. The player with the next highest total is Charles Johnson at 45 in 1991.

The Effect of a Throw Down on Run Production

Since many teams have more than one runner on base when there’s an opportunity to steal, the runner on third base is often a difficult out. One way for teams to improve their chances of success with this type of situation is by using a “steal play,” in which they surprise the catcher with an unexpected throw down. Of course, losing a runner compounds the run-dampening effects of simple out.