What is it?
Generally used late in the game with only one run needed to tie the game up or to break the tie, the squeeze play is a maneuver in which the runner on third and the batter coordinate for a possible steal home. The runner takes a secondary lead as soon as the pitcher’s arm reaches a forward motion and the batter squares out for the bunt. The runner waits for the outcome of the bunt before making the decision to take off for home or to retreat back to third.

In the Suicide Squeeze, however, the runner on third commits ahead of time for the steal. As soon as the pitcher’s arm reaches a forward motion and releases the ball, the runner darts for home. The suicide squeeze is aptly named since there is much risk involved. The commitment can also be quite profitable since the likelihood of a score is increased with the proactive lead off.

When should it be used?
The success of this play relies primarily on the batter. Any false move or missed pitch and the runner becomes easy prey for a tag out. If the bunt is unsuccessful or if it pops up and is caught, the runner will be forced to return to third, where a double play is likely to result. Since such precise bunting is required, this maneuver should only be attempted with an expert bunter and a very fast runner.

The suicide squeeze should only be attempted with less than 2 outs since the batter will almost certainly be thrown out. You want a good bunter at the plate, but don’t use the suicide squeeze when you have a power hitter up at bat since he will likely gain more by getting a base hit and a natural score from the third base runner.