Best angle for 3rd base

[AtlUmpSteve]

Assuming fast pitch, you start behind the left shoulder of the shortstop. Using the inside/outside theory, since the ball stayed inside the infield, you stay outside. Once you read the pitcher will throw to third base, move parallel to the baseline, staying outside; even 4-5 steps will bring you an almost 90 degree angle to the throw, and staying outside will keep you from being straight lined on the runner sliding.

Running into the infield will only help in one of the three possible plays; first base. It hurts your angle on a play at third, and may get you hit with the throw if the pitcher throws to second. So, stay outside until you read the throw, then react accordingly. Moving parallel to the base line toward second will help your angle at first base if you lose the time to move closer. Make the call at second from where you started.