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The Nationals’ unorthodox baserunning tactics create a chaotic, geometric spectacle on the diamond.Washington Today
The Washington Nationals have been running an unconventional first-and-third double steal play more commonly seen in Little League, and it’s been surprisingly effective so far this MLB season. The daring tactic, which involves the runner on first taking off with the pitch while the runner on third breaks for home as the catcher throws to second, has allowed the Nationals to create chaos on the basepaths and catch opposing defenses off guard.
Why it matters
The Nationals’ embrace of this high-risk, high-reward baserunning strategy represents a departure from traditional MLB tactics and highlights the team’s willingness to try unorthodox approaches under new leadership this season. While defenses may eventually adapt, the Nationals’ success with the play so far has made it an exciting and unpredictable element of their games.
The details
The first-and-third double steal is a play that is more commonly seen in youth baseball leagues than the major leagues, as it requires precise timing, athleticism, and a commitment to the plan from the baserunners. However, the Nationals have been executing the maneuver effectively, with the runner on first taking off as the pitch is delivered and the runner on third breaking for home as the catcher throws to second base.
The Nationals have been running the first-and-third double steal multiple times this MLB season.
The players
Washington Nationals
The professional baseball team based in Washington, D.C. that competes in Major League Baseball’s National League East division.
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What they’re saying
“This Nationals team is pure chaos”
— Krabs
What’s next
As defenses become more aware of the Nationals’ use of the first-and-third double steal, they may adjust their strategies to try to counter the play. However, the Nationals’ willingness to continue embracing this unorthodox tactic could keep opponents off balance and lead to further success on the basepaths.
The takeaway
The Washington Nationals’ embrace of the first-and-third double steal, a play more commonly associated with youth baseball, highlights the team’s willingness to try unconventional approaches under new leadership this season. While defenses may eventually adapt, the Nationals’ success with the tactic so far has made it an exciting and unpredictable element of their games.