Defensive signals...how do you do it?

TCB...

We signal in bunt defenses & 1st/3rds through the Catcher

Pickoffs are from the SS or C.

Looks like we're on the same page with Redbird. our catchers run the show...Between he and the SS all communication takes place.. I hate hearing coaches yell out 62 0r 42 on first and third. Who doesn't know what's going on...?

We call out 62 and 42 but run them opposite of what's expected. It's fun to watch the other Coach hold their runners at 3rd while we throw through and make the tag at 2B. Our kids learn to sell it really well.

You can use numbers, signals with hands or body parts, have the players give suggestions for the catcher and ss to use or go with the "naked gun movie" and use flags and signal lights. Be creative, allow the players to get involved, that way they forget less, and make simple changes over the season in order to keep the other coaches guessing. Heres one we had fun with. In our district we played each team twice, so we came up with moving or waving the outfielders as a way to signal our 1st and 3rd calls. We would wave wildly for Lf to move one way or another, that meant we were throwing to 3b, Cf meant we were throwing thru to 2b and Rf meant pitcher was taking the hard throw back from the catcher. It was a little cheesy, so we worked with the catchers the next year and gave them simple arm signals. Thats what we have done over the years and it has worked for us.

Bunts come from 3rd baseman.

1st and 3rd / 1st and 2nd come from catcher. It is important to put let infielders know where the throw is going if they run w/ 1st and 2nd as you do not want a middle infielder AND 3rd baseman covering on the same play.

It also gives you the option to put on a regular bunt coverage and 1st and 2nd possible steal on same play. You obviosly would not put on anything from catcher (to defend steal w/ runners on first and second) if you are running a wheel to defend the bunt.