FB block is a term used in baseball to describe a fielder blocking a base to prevent a runner from advancing. It refers to when a fielder positions themselves in front of a base and stretches their leg across the base in order to tag out a runner attempting to reach that base. The term “FB” stands for “force base” or “force play”.
When is a FB Block Used in Baseball?
A FB block is typically used in situations when there is a force play at a base. A force play occurs when a runner is compelled to attempt to advance to the next base because the batter becomes a runner. On force plays, a fielder merely has to tag the base to record an out, rather than tag the runner.
Common situations where a FB block may occur include:
- When a runner is on first base and the batter hits a ground ball, the first baseman may use a FB block on first base to get the lead runner out.
- When a runner is on second or third base and there are less than two outs, the catcher may use a FB block on home plate to prevent the runner from scoring.
- The shortstop or second baseman may use a FB block to tag runners out who are attempting to reach second base on a ground ball.
By using their body to obstruct a base, fielders can more easily tag runners out on force plays without having to move their glove to make a tag. The FB block gives them more range and control to make the play.
Proper Technique for an FB Block
Executing a proper FB block requires good footwork, agility, and timing by the fielder.
To perform a FB block, the fielder will:
- Move their body in front of the base they are covering for the force play.
- Place one foot on the edge of the base, pointing their toe down on the base.
- Extend their other leg across the base, stretching it out to obstruct as much of the base as possible.
- Bend their knees to get low to the ground in an athletic position.
- Hold their glove down in front of them to tag the part of the base that their foot isn’t touching.
- Attempt to tag the runner out as they reach the base.
The key is for the fielder to use their footwork and agility to gain position in front of the base quickly in order to beat the runner there. Proper timing on when to move to cover the base and when to go down for the block is crucial.
Rules and Controversy Around FB Blocks
While FB blocks can be an effective technique for getting runners out, there are some specific rules and interpretations around blocking bases that impact how and when they are used:
- Fielders are not allowed to obstruct the base path or prevent a runner from reaching a base they are entitled to. Blocks have to occur in the act of making a play.
- Runners are permitted to make contact with a fielder as long as they are attempting to reach the base. Barreling through the defender is not allowed.
- Fielders are not required to get out of the way of a runner approaching first base on a ground ball, but obstruction rules apply at other bases.
- Middle infielders can position themselves in the runner’s path on potential double play turns, but must provide the runner a path to the base.
There has been controversy over middle infielders positioning themselves in the basepath and using FB blocks to break up double plays. In the past, players could get away with more contact, but current obstruction rules have cut down on some of the more egregious takeout slides.
FB Blocks vs Regular Tags
While FB blocks can be useful, they aren’t always the optimal play. It usually comes down to the fielder’s preference and what they are most comfortable with in the moment.
Some pros of FB blocks include:
- Gives the fielder more reach to make tags without having to move the glove as much.
- Eliminates the need to catch the ball before tagging.
- Allows the fielder to stay squared up to the runner’s path.
Some cons of FB blocks include:
- Requires more precise timing and footwork to get into position.
- Leaves less margin for error if the block is executed poorly.
- If missed, can take the fielder out of position to make a play.
Regular tags allow the defender to stay standing upright to react to bad hops. But they require catching the ball cleanly before making the tag. There are merits to both techniques depending on the game situation and the fielder’s confidence in their ability to execute the block effectively.
Famous Examples of FB Blocks
While FB blocks are relatively common plays, a few stand out as particularly memorable:
- In Game 7 of the 1991 World Series, Braves first baseman Sid Bream made a daring slide on a FB block by Pirates catcher Mike LaValliere to score the series-clinching run in the bottom of the 9th inning.
- In Game 4 of the 2013 ALCS, Red Sox third baseman Will Middlebrooks got tangled up with Cardinals base runner Allen Craig on a FB block, resulting in obstruction being called and a game-winning run scoring.
- In Game 5 of the 2015 ALDS, Blue Jays catcher Russell Martin used an acrobatic FB block to tag out Rangers slugger Josh Hamilton at home plate and preserve a one-run lead.
These examples illustrate how the success or failure of a FB block at crucial moments can impact pivotal games on the biggest stages in baseball.
Teaching FB Blocks
Because FB blocks require precise footwork and timing, it takes practice to master the technique. Coaches generally teach FB blocks in the following progression:
- Have players get in an athletic position on the balls of their feet and practice shuffling side to side to react to balls.
- Position the player in front of a base and have them work on stepping on the corner of the base with one foot.
- Add extending the other leg across the base and fielding balls rolled to the side to tag the base.
- Finally, have runners run full speed at the base while the fielder times their FB block.
Younger players should focus on keeping their foot on the corner of the base and making clean tags before learning to extend their leg across for a full FB block. Mastering the fundamentals is key.
Common FB Blocking Mistakes
There are several miscues that defenders must avoid when executing FB blocks:
- Getting too much of their foot on the base – Ideally just the toe should be touching the base on a block. Too much foot can make it harder to adjust.
- Not leaving any base exposed for the tag – Some part of the base must be available for the runner to reach.
- Not staying square to the runner – Failing to stay square can take away the ability to make tags on both sides.
- Reaching down towards low throws – Fielders should react to short-hops but avoid over-committing too soon on errant throws.
- Failing to control the leg – Keeping the blocking leg controlled and placing it strategically is key to avoiding obstruction.
With repetition, players can eliminate these miscues in their technique.
Key Coaching Points on FB Blocks
Here are some key coaching cues to reinforce proper FB block technique:
- Gain ground laterally on balls to either side to put yourself in front of the basepath.
- Keep just your toe on the corner of the base so you can adjust your positioning.
- Stretch your blocking leg across the base low to the ground in an athletic position.
- Angle your blocking leg based on the runner’s approach to direct them towards your tag side.
- Keep your glove positioned in the area of the exposed base ready to make the tag.
With practice, fielders will learn to time their footwork and approach to the baseball in order to execute clean, legal FB blocks to record outs.
FB Blocks by Position
Certain defensive positions utilize FB blocks more than others:
First Base
First basemen frequently use FB blocks on ground balls hit to the right side when there is a runner on first base. It allows them to tag the bag without needing to catch the ball.
Catcher
Catchers will often employ FB blocks on force plays at home when a runner is on third to prevent runs from scoring.
Middle Infielders
Shortstops and second basemen may apply FB blocks on force outs at second base on potential double plays.
Third Base
Third basemen rarely use FB blocks given that force plays at third are less common. They more often field balls hit to their right side requiring tags.
So while all infielders need to learn proper FB block techniques, it’s most frequently applied by first basemen, catchers and middle infielders in game situations.
Common FB Block Situations
There are certain common scenarios where fielders are most likely to utilize FB blocks:
| Situation | FB Block Opportunity |
|---|---|
| Runner on 1st, ground ball to right side | First baseman can block 1B |
| Runner on 2nd, ground ball up middle | Middle infielder can block 2B |
| Runner on 3rd, less 2 outs | Catcher can block home |
| Double play opportunity | Middle infielder can block 2B |
Recognizing these common chances to use a FB block can help players react decisively to make the play.
Conclusion
FB blocks require precise technique but can be extremely effective when executed properly. Fielders must utilize proper footwork, agility and timing to get in front of the base and obstruct the runner from reaching it. While controversial at times, FB blocks used within the rules allow defenders to more easily record force outs without tagging. With practice, players can become adept at using FB blocks to prevent runs and help their teams.