first base acting as cutoff

Question
Is it acceptable or even commonplace that first baseman act as cutoff for right field and/or right of right center in girls fastpitch?

Answer
Hello Bonnie,

Normally I don't use first base as a cut off unless it is an extra base hit situation where the batter/runner is going to make second base regardless of where the ball is hit.  If the outfielder gets burnt or the ball is hit to the gap between right and center then yes, this is the best option.  Pitcher would back up home and left fielder would back up third.  Shortstop covers second and second base goes out in case a double cut is needed.  In a case where the outfielder cleanly fields the ball, I instruct my pitcher to maintain her position and be the cutoff to home if a play is possible there.  First base would then cover her base in case catcher calls for the cut to go to her base.  In all situations, your catcher is in charge of lining up the cutoff and instructing the cutter as to where she wants the relay to go.  Example:  No play at the plate, the catcher may yell.."Cut two, Cut two!"  I hope this was helpful.

Coach Mike