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3apples
"Without the ball in play how can you decieve a runner into a situation where they are at a disadvantage. I just don't see it as possible."
The most common and effective hidden ball trick goes thusly:
R1 - Less than 2 outs . . .
Batter sacrifices and the play is from an infielder to F4 covering first base.
BR is out and R1 has now become R2.
As soon as F4 catches the ball he acts like he hands it to another player (can be F1 but that is not neccessary could be anyone) . . .
However, just prior to this hand off F4 has placed the ball in his left arm pit and lowers his arm.
F1 DOES NOT GO TO THE MOUND, normally F1 and F2 have a conference in the infield.
F4 casually returns to the base at second where R2 is stationed.
Many times the runner will be dusting off, or looking around and not be in contact with the base.
By having the ball in the arm pit out of sight F4 makes sure that R2 can see not only his open and empty throwing hand but shows (casually) his empty glove.
R2 steps off base for whatever reason . . .
and you know "The Rest of the Story!"
I have seen this work at the college level 5 or 6 times over the decades.
Tee
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