Great discussion, but follow my thinking here...
U3 comes to just inside the "baseline" between 2nd and 3rd in order to get inside/outside coverage (granted, ability to run is going to be limited, but can help on getting call right) PU backs into a "Holding Zone" to view runner at third. IF a throw away from the rundown is going to happen, it will probably be to home plate, right? Any team at this level will know not to throw behind the runner, right?
SO let's say there are three throws between 1st and 2nd. R1 breaks for home once she (coach) realizes the defense is trying for the out. Throw comes home. If U3 is near the baseline between 2nd and 3rd (about 12 feet away from second) and is thinking about what is happening, they WILL NOT be in the way of the throw. So the throw goes home.
Now R1 is in a pickle between 3rd and home. Who covers? Why doesn't U3 pivot and come towards third, still maintaining the position just inside the baseline? They are not in the way anymore, since R3 is going to take second once the throw comes home. This way, U3 has helped BOTH partners out on BOTH rundowns without getting involved in the play.
Just a thought!
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