If there are two outs and a ball is hit to second base with a runner on third, what should the fielder do?

If there are two outs and a ball is hit to second base with a runner on third, what should the fielder do?

• A. Throw to home plate
• B. Field the ball and throw to 1st base
• C. Field the ball and throw to 2nd base
• D. Let the catcher handle it

Answer: (B)

The best action for the fielder at second base with two outs and a runner on third is to field the ball and throw to first base. This decision is based on the awareness of the game situation. With two outs already, the primary concern for the defensive team is to record the third out. Throwing to first base guarantees that the inning is over by getting the batter-runner out, irrespective of whether the runner on third attempts to score. Although there is a runner on third, and the fielder could consider throwing home to prevent a run, that would place emphasis on a potentially risky play. If the runner is attempting to score, it could lead to a play at the plate, but it is likely less effective than ensuring the third out by throwing to first, especially when you are confident of making that throw in a timely manner. The other options, such as throwing to home plate, throwing to second base, or letting the catcher handle it, could distract from the critical goal of capturing the third out and might lead to a case where the focus is misplaced, potentially allowing the inning to continue. By securing the out at first base, the fielder ensures the defensive outcome that benefits the team the most in this situation.

The best action for the fielder at second base with two outs and a runner on third is to field the ball and throw to first base. This decision is based on the awareness of the game situation. With two outs already, the primary concern for the defensive team is to record the third out. Throwing to first base guarantees that the inning is over by getting the batter-runner out, irrespective of whether the runner on third attempts to score.

Although there is a runner on third, and the fielder could consider throwing home to prevent a run, that would place emphasis on a potentially risky play. If the runner is attempting to score, it could lead to a play at the plate, but it is likely less effective than ensuring the third out by throwing to first, especially when you are confident of making that throw in a timely manner.

The other options, such as throwing to home plate, throwing to second base, or letting the catcher handle it, could distract from the critical goal of capturing the third out and might lead to a case where the focus is misplaced, potentially allowing the inning to continue. By securing the out at first base, the fielder ensures the defensive outcome that benefits the team the most in this situation.