Holding the runner on 3rd

Question
Hi Coach,

I was wondering how a 3rd baseman should position his feet on the bag when he's holding the runner on to prevent a squeeze or steal of home?

Answer
Hello Brian,

The mere fact that the third baseman is in the immediate area of the bag is enough to hold the runner close, in most cases.  The first objective is to keep the runner close--not necessarily to get him picked-off.  If he is careless, you might catch him leaning.

The third baseman can even play a few feet off of the bag so long as he is sure to remind the runner that he is there and give the runner some hesitation.  

If you really want the runner held tight, have the third baseman position his right foot so it leans on the inside corner of the bag ( not on  top of the bag )and hold the runner just like a first baseman would.  On a pick off, he can drop down to block the runners path to the bag with his leg.

That should do it.  Good luck.

Pete