During the past two scrimmages, we introduced some baseball signs to our players. Although a series of signals might initially look complicated, the system is really quite simple.
A series of signs will always include a number of decoy signs. The thing that differentiates the decoys from the actual sign is the indicator. Once the indicator is given, the very next signal is the one that counts. Let's say that the indicator is a swipe across the chest (that's not our's since I won't be giving our signs away over the internet!). The third base coach might start off by tapping the bill of his cap and then swiping his arm. But, until he swipes his chest, there has been no indicator (i.e., nothing counts).
Once the indicator is given, the very next signal counts. For example, if our signal for a "take" sign (i.e., don't swing) is a touch of the knee, then the sequence for a take sign might go something like this:
1) Tap to the bill of the cap (Decoy)
2) Swipe of the arm (Decoy)
3) Swipe across the chest (Indicator)
4) Touch of the knee (The Take Sign is On!)
5) Touch to the eye (Decoy)
6) Two claps (Decoy)
Note that players will look for the signs prior to every pitch. Otherwise, it will become clear that we only signal when a special play is on. Also, players will continue to look through the signs until the sequence is completed. Otherwise, the opponent can quickly identify the indicator.
Of course, it's always easy to change the indicator if the other team appears to be catching onto the signs. Creative indicators include--the sign only counts when the coach is walking forward while signalling. Or, the sign counts if the coach is saying a particular phrase while signalling. Or, ignore the right hand as only the left hand counts at all through the sequence. The number of options is endless.
This same system will be used (decoys/indicators/signs) for baserunning as well. We will also have some signs for defensive plays (e.g., pitch outs).
Why use signs?
Let's say we have a runner on first base with no outs and no count on the hitter. If we want to have the runner steal on the first pitch, we might give the hitter the take sign to allow the runner to advance without fear of a line drive or fly ball being hit. This eliminates our risk of hitting into a double play while getting our runner in scoring position before the hitter is ready to hit the second pitch.
Observing take signs can also be a safety issue. If one of our runners is stealing home, we don't want our hitter swinging while our runner is sliding through the strike zone!
