Glossary
Steal sign
A steal sign is the signal a coach gives a base runner to take the next base on the pitch, hidden among other signs so the defense cannot read it.
Of all the signs a coach gives, the steal sign is the one the other dugout works hardest to read, because a defense that knows the runner is going can call a pitchout or have the catcher ready to throw. So it is rarely a single touch. Most teams use an indicator: the steal sign only counts if it comes right after a set touch, such as the brim of the cap, and every other touch is noise.
Other common systems are a count (the steal is on when the coach touches the same spot a set number of times), a hot sign that changes by inning, and a wipe-off that cancels everything before it. Whatever the system, the runner and the batter both need to see it: the runner to go, and the batter to know not to swing at a pitch that could be caught and thrown.
A wristband takes most of the reading out of it. The coach calls a number, the runner and batter look it up, and the steal is one cell among dozens, so watching the coach's hands tells the other team nothing. The runner should still answer with a return sign, so the coach knows the call was seen.
When to call it
- A fast runner on first against a catcher with a slow release.
- A count where the pitcher is likely to throw a breaking ball, which is slower to the plate.
- A pitcher who is slow to the plate from the stretch or does not vary their timing.
Put it on a card: Baseball and softball signs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an indicator sign?
A set touch that tells the player the next sign is the real one. Without the indicator, every other touch means nothing, so a steal sign given on its own is a decoy.
Should the batter swing when the steal sign is on?
Usually not. Many teams pair the steal with a take, so the batter does not hit a pop-up or line drive that doubles off the runner. A batter can still swing at a pitch down the middle if your team plays it that way.
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