Glossary
Take sign
A take sign tells the batter not to swing at the next pitch, whatever it is.
The take is the most common sign a batter gets and the easiest to ignore. A coach calls it to make the pitcher throw a strike, to protect a runner who is stealing, or to look at a pitcher who has just walked a batter. The batter's job is simple: watch the ball all the way into the glove and do not swing, even at a pitch down the middle.
The most familiar take is on a 3-0 count, when the pitcher has to throw a strike and a walk is a single for free. Teams also use it on the first pitch after a walk or a wild pitch, and with a runner stealing so that the catcher has a clear throw and the batter does not hit into a double play.
Because the take is called so often, teams give it a simple sign, or make it the default and give a sign to swing instead (a green light). On a wristband, the take is a single cell, and a coach can pair it with a steal or a bunt fake in one call.
When to call it
- A 3-0 count, or 2-0 with a pitcher who is struggling to throw strikes.
- The first pitch after the pitcher has walked the previous batter on four pitches.
- A runner stealing on the pitch, so the batter does not hit a line drive that doubles off the runner.
Put it on a card: Baseball and softball signs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a green light mean in baseball?
A green light is the opposite of a take: the batter is free to swing at a pitch they like, most often on a 3-0 count.
Can a batter fake a bunt on a take sign?
Yes, and many teams have a sign for it. A fake bunt and take draws the corners in and shows the defense a look without risking the out.
More in the glossary
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