Jump (Stolen Base)
Also known as: jump, first step on steal, break
The jump on a stolen base attempt is how quickly and decisively a runner breaks toward the next base on the pitcher's first movement — the single biggest predictor of stolen base success.
A great jump means the runner reads the pitcher's "tell" (the first movement that commits to a pitch versus a pickoff) and breaks explosively before the ball reaches the catcher's mitt. Reading the pitcher's leg kick, heel lift, or shoulder rotation identifies the moment of commitment. Runners with a good jump can steal bases on catchers with strong arms; runners with poor jumps can be thrown out even against weak-armed catchers. Pop time (time from catcher's mitt to fielder's glove at second) minus the pitcher's delivery time equals the window the runner must beat.
Example
He read the pitcher's heel lift and broke immediately — by the time the catcher rose to throw, the runner was already 3/4 of the way to second.
Related terms
- Lead Off BaseA lead off base is the distance a baserunner takes from the bag before the pitch — maximising lead distance reduces the distance to the next base while managing pickoff risk.
- Secondary LeadThe secondary lead is the movement a baserunner takes as the pitch crosses the plate — a walking step or shuffle that adds momentum toward the next base the moment contact is made.
- Baserunning ReadA baserunning read is the split-second decision a runner makes based on what the ball does after contact — whether to advance, hold, or retreat.
- Pitch RecognitionPitch recognition is reading a pitch’s type and location early — out of the pitcher’s hand and from spin — so the hitter can decide to swing or take before it’s too late.
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