Originally Posted by
RedsManRick
One reason is that range in the IF isn't just about coverage (the ability to get to the ball at all), but rather the speed and angle at which the plays can be made. The throw from SS is considerably longer than the throw from 2B. A 2B can make the play deep in the hole and still throw out the runner easily. A SS who is forced to take a deep angle might get to the ball, but he's a lot less likely to get the runner.
Think of Jeter. If he was a step quicker, he wouldn't have to make that stupid jump throw in the hole because he would've made the play on the dirt, planted his back foot, fired a hard throw, and gotten the runner by 3 steps.