Cuts and double cuts, my thoughts. First and foremost, the situation with regards to the score, what inning, and where the base runners are will dictate how I/we cut and double cut. But here is the generic way we do it.
A legit double hit hard to the OF requires a double cut. If my OF has to turn and run then 90% of the time it’s a double cut and both my MIF’s are the double cut. The first baseman drops about 6 inches into the infield grass and watches the runner step on first base as he rounds it, then trails for a back door opportunity. This also positions the 1st baseman to be closer to the cut 4 position if it gets ugly. I have the strongest arm lead the double cut for obvious reasons.
A gap shot that only requires a standard cut will be taken by the nearest MIF while the other is covering 2nd base. We are always lining up our cut one base ahead of the runner, double cuts line up for three and a standard cut may line up for 2nd, 3rd, or home.
Cut 4 in LF is taken by my 3rd baseman (ideally) and he positions himself in the infield grass near 3rd base. This allows him to watch the base runners while taking the cut. If it is a hard knock all the way to LF corner and requires a double cut, my SS will assist or lead the double cut but the 3rd baseman still stays in the IF.
Pitcher backs up home on a cut 4 to the LF side and SS trails the runner from 2nd to 3rd if he is not needed for the cut. 2nd baseman covers 2nd. If the SS has to assist with the double cut to home, the pitcher becomes a 3rd baseman.
In short, I/we have four basic rules for our defense:
1. Get an out
2. Field the ball
3. Be a cutoff man
4. Cover/backup a base
If you aren’t doing one of those for things when the ball is put in play, you may as well just buy a ticket and watch from the stands.
Eephus2013 – I hope this helps. Side note, take a chill pill. You are seriously misreading biggerpapi’s original reply to you.