[Tru_in_Blu]

For me personally, some of this has to do with the speed of the runner at first base, and to some extent, the speed of the BR.

On a routine ground ball to an infielder with average speed runners, I have time to hang around the first base line a bit longer.

If it was a situation where a team is trying to sacrifice the runner, the runner from first may well attempt to try for third. I may cheat a little there and edge away from the first base line while still trying to keep an eye out for the pulled foot, which could actually be important if F3 tries to rush a throw to third base. But I do have a partner responsible for first base, and I will be responsible for third base (and home). I may also have to hang around a bit longer if F1 or F3 fields a bunt and tries to tag BR within the first 30' to first base.

Angle over distance is the mantra. If I can get the angle for the play at third base, then I can try to close the distance.