Stolen Base
A stolen base is the advancement of a baserunner to the next base on their own initiative during a pitch, relying on a quick jump, reading the pitcher's release, and superior speed over the catcher's pop time.
In fast-pitch, stolen base timing is typically off the pitcher's release rather than hand separation (as in baseball), because the windmill delivery reveals the release point clearly. Runners read the pitcher's tempo and arm position to get the ideal jump. The shorter base paths (60 feet) mean the margin is thin — a late break or a good catcher pop time will result in an out. Speed, jump timing, and reading the pitcher are the three controllable factors in a stolen base attempt.
Example
The runner times the pitcher's release, breaks perfectly, and slides into second ahead of the catcher's throw by a half-step.
Related terms
- Lead TimingLead timing is when and how far a baserunner leaves the base in anticipation of a pitch being put in play or a steal attempt, requiring coordination with the pitcher's release point.
- Reading the PitcherReading the pitcher is the baserunner's ability to pick up timing cues in the pitcher's delivery — arm position, release tempo, or body tilt — to optimize their lead and steal timing.
- Catcher Throwing MechanicsCatcher throwing mechanics encompass the footwork, transfer, and arm action a catcher uses to quickly and accurately throw to a base to retire a stolen-base attempt or catch a runner off base.
Related guides & benchmarks
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