Chris LaFay

Payoff

In baseball, the pitch that happens on a 3-2 count is called the “payoff pitch.” Something will happen as it’s the pivotal moment between the batter and the pitcher. The batter will:

  1. Walk
  2. Strike out
  3. Put the ball in play

Other than the simple fact that it’s against the rules, would it be wise for the team’s coach to step into the batter’s box every time one of his players had a 3-2 count?

No.

Whoever is hitting is a much better choice to be in that position. The batter has studied this pitcher, perhaps even has hit against him many times before, and is the logical choice over the manager hitting in his place.

Also, many managers are out of practice and haven’t played in a real baseball game in years.

Why do we, as founders or leaders in our company, always want to step in when our team is experiencing a “3-2 count?” As leaders, we can see the big picture, but we don’t know the details.

Next time a team member gets into a bind, coach them and don’t take the bat away from them.