This site is designed for our coaches, as well as Mom's, Dad's and players who need help in knowing how to help young players master skills and improve their game. The following drills and tips are designed to help you achieve this.

BASE RUNNING TIPS & DRILLS

DRILLS

Aggressive Drill
    Diving and sliding practice
Base running Situations Drill
    Allows the coach to check running mechanics and proper turns in every base running situation
Between Home and First Drill
    Drill for teaching correct base running and listening to the base coach
Burma's Drill
    Base running with strategy in mind

Dirt Ball Drill

    Teaches players how to read the trajectory of a pitched ball that will bounce in the dirt
    A big part of our base running program is "reading ball in the dirt."
Lead-Off Drill
    Gets the base runner to come off of the base aggressively as soon as the pitch crosses the plate
Leads and Breaks Drill
    Helpful drill for divisions in which players lead off
Slow Down Tip
    Keeps younger players from slowing down before reaching first base
 

    SAFE SLIDING PRACTICE TIP
When practicing sliding try using a large piece of cardboard placed on grass. Have the kids start their slide hitting the piece of cardboard. This causes the cardboard to slide on the grass instead of the kid so there is less chance for injury do to abrasion or maybe snagging a cleat or shoe in the grass. Use a stick of some kind as sort of limbo bar and have them slide under it to make sure they stay as low as possible. Make sure they practice good form (slide more on your back than side and keep the hands up and back).

Always wear batting helmets when practicing.
 

AGGRESSIVE DRILL
Runners start at home plate. Swing and round first properly taking a wide, aggressive, turn and dive back into the bag. Runner gets up quickly, takes an aggressive lead, takes off to steal 2nd sliding into the bag. Runner then gets up takes an aggressive secondary lead and dives back into the bag. He then steals third repeating the slide, getting up and taking an aggressive lead off third, in foul ground, dives back into the bag, coming back on the foul line. He gets up and sprints home (no slide at plate). The next runner takes off from home when the previous runner completes his dive into first and touches the bag.

The focus of this drill is to make our runners very aggressive and not be afraid to get dirty!!! It also gets players practice in sliding and diving properly, which will hopefully keep us from injuries and out of court. It also tends to develop players who want to work hard and get dirty.

 

BASE RUNNING SITUATIONS DRILL
This is a great drill to end practice with.

Split the team in half and form two lines at home plate, one staggered ahead and inside the other. The coach stands at the pitcher's circle with two bats. When he (she) hits the bats together, the lead runners in both lines take off. One runs straight through first base as if she is beating out a groundball, the other makes a turn and continues into second. You now have runners at first and second and two lines of runners still at home. At the next crack of the bat, the drill continues in the same manner but the runner on second now rounds third and scores while the runner on first takes third. Now every base should be occupied. It continues again, with the runner on third tagging up and scoring. Two runners will now score each time the bats are hit together. They will then return to the end of the opposite line and the bases will always remain loaded.

The coach can gauge when the team has had enough and end the drill when the last player on line crosses home.

 

BETWEEN HOME & FIRST DRILL

Players line up at home plate. One at a time swing a bat and drop it safely as if a hit. They then become a runner and runner to first base watching the coach.

If signaled to second they round the turn and go to second. The coach may stop them and have them slide back into first, send them to slide into second, or have them overrun. The coach should alternate his calls to keep the players guessing and watching.

Use this drill to get players safe on first base, and as a great tool to teach:
1) running through the base.
2) rounding a base.
3) tag the base with the left foot on the left corner of the bag, and
4) watching and listening to the base coach.

BURMA's DRILL

Divide the players equally among the four bases. One at a time from each base will be running, with the others waiting their turn. At 'go' from the coach, the four take off. Proper technique is a must and the goal would be to do a certain amount right in a row before going on to something else.

Player at the plate: Simulates a swing. Takes off as if hitting a double and possibly a triple. Makes a good turn at first. Picks up the 3rd base coach half way to 2nd. Rounds 2nd hard, 'picks up the ball' and returns to 2nd quickly. Player at first: From a lead, goes from 1st to 3rd. Picks up the 3rd base coach half way to 3rd. Makes a hard turn at 3rd then returns quickly. Player at 2nd: From a lead, goes from 2nd to home. Picks up the 3rd base coach and makes a good turn. Runs hard through the plate. Player at 3rd: From a lead, goes back to the bag to tag. Takes off for home, rounds it, then takes off for 1st as if beating out a single. Looks inside towards the 1st base dugout as he crosses the bag for possible overthrow.

DIRT BALL DRILL

This drill helps the players learn how to read the trajectory of a pitched ball that will bounce in the dirt. Players are set up at all three bases. They are independent of each other because different bases have different rules for a ball in the dirt. A coach pitches from the rubber and mixes in strikes and balls in the dirt to the catcher.  Any time the ball is about to bounce the whole team must yell "DIRT." This helps you make sure everyone is paying attention. Base runners on first should automatically go when they know the ball is going to bounce. If they leave after the ball has bounced, they left too late. Runners on second need to react to the ball in the dirt and then decide if they would be safe. We tell them to read and decide. If the ball kicks away from the catcher they should've gone. If the catcher blocks the ball in front of him the base runners should stay. The runner on third base is similar to the one on second. He takes his lead, gets a good crow hop as the ball nears the plate and reacts to the ball in the dirt. Again, he reads and decides.

Coaches should emphasize that each base is independent of each other. Just 'cause the runner from first goes to second doesn't mean the runner on second has to go. Coaches should also emphasize good secondary lead technique. It also helps if you have at least 2 catchers. You don't want one catcher getting tired and picking up bad or lazy habits.
 

LEAD-OFF DRILL
One problem we have in youth baseball is getting the base runner to come off of the base aggressively as soon as the pitch crosses the plate. In our league you can't come off the bag until the ball is either put into play or caught by the catcher.

To correct this we run an exercise requiring a pitcher, a catcher and a first baseman and one base runner with batting helmet (at first base). The remaining players line up in foul territory to take their turn running. To begin the pitcher pitches to the catcher and the catcher makes a throw to first base to try to catch the base runner coming off of the bag to go to second base.

The object is for the base runner to get as far as possible toward second base (but not to go to second) and then try to get safely back to first before the throw. We mark a line in the dirt at the farthest distance that each player gets to - only if they get back to first safely. That tells the player how far they can get off the bag and still get back during a regular game. We have a competition to see who can get the farthest. We never lose a chance to make any drill into a game or competition. In order to get any distance at all they have to dive headfirst back to first base (which is considered both safe and legal in our league).

Our aim is to get the players to come off the bags far enough to take advantage of any dropped balls by the catcher or to get the catcher to make an attempt at a throw-out (which results in an error about 50% of the time). It is also a good workout for the pitcher, catcher and first baseman.

Final coaching consideration
It's important that when you finish the competition to go back over each player's mark with that player and have them stride off the distance. This will let them have an idea how far to come off the bag.
 

LEADS AND BREAKS DRILL
If you coach at a division in which players lead off, this drill can be helpful.

Align all players on the first base foul line, in the outfield. The line becomes the base. A coach acts as the pitcher, somewhere near the infield dirt, near where the second baseman would play. All players should have a good view. The coach should alternate between rightie, leftie, stretch, windup, stepping off the rubber, and picks. Players are given a scenario before every pitch (on first base straight steal, on first base hit and run, on second base two out lead, delay steal, etc.). Players assume the correct position, take a proper lead, and react according to the play called and the movement of the pitcher. Other coaches should be positioned to watch players and make corrections.

Spend 5-10 minutes of every practice on this. We also spent at least 5 minutes before every game on this drill.
 

SLOW DOWN TIP
Many 1st and 2nd graders slow down before they get to first base instead of running through the bag. During practice, I have the kids run to a base I place about 15 feet past first. This way they keep up their speed through the first.
 

CATCHING TIPS & DRILLS

DRILLS
Glove to the Ball - Knees to the Glove Drill
    Helps catchers to block and throw effectively
 

PROGRAMS
Catcher Blocking Program
    Series of drills to improve a catcher's blocking skill
Catcher Framing Program
    Series of drills to help catchers to properly frame strikes and borderline pitches
Fielding Bunts Program
    Drills to give catchers practice fielding bunts
Throwing Footwork Program
    Series of drills to improve a catcher's throwing footwork
 

TIPS

CATCHER TO SECOND BASE TIP
When making the throw to second base, your right foot (if you are right-handed) should barely move. All that is needed is a slight step, just up and back down, is sufficient to get yourself in the correct position to throw, and it's quicker than taking a step forward, and easier on your arm than just a throw as soon as you get the ball.

CATCHING PITCHERS TIP
The catcher's position is the most demanding in baseball. During the course of a game, the catcher is the busiest player on the field-crouching behind the plate, blocking balls, keeping track of the count on each batter, repositioning teammates defensively, and so on. So select a sturdy, smart, and strong youngster to be your catcher. A catcher's mitt is padded and rounded so that the ball easily lands in the pocket. The extra padding also helps ensure the safety of the player using the glove.
 

Basic Position:
The catcher assumes a comfortable crouching position about 2 feet behind the plate. The catcher uses his glove to give the pitcher a throwing target. The catcher can move the target around the plate to give the pitcher an inside or outside target. Have catchers protect the throwing hand from foul-tipped balls by placing it behind the back of the leg. With the legs shoulder-width apart, the catcher keeps the weight on the balls of the feet so he is ready to move in any direction for a poorly thrown ball. Staying low helps the catcher avoid being hit by the swing of the batter and allows the umpire to see the baseball as it crosses the plate. When a ball is pitched in the dirt, the catcher should try to block the ball and keep it in front of the body.
 

Throwing out Base Runners:
With runners on base, your catcher should be in the up position; Feet shoulder-width apart and the right foot slightly in front of the left. The glove hand should be extended away form the body, providing a large target. The back should remain parallel to the ground. This position will allow your catcher to receive the pitch and throw to a base quickly. When a runner attempts a steal, the catcher should lean into the ball just before catching it, making sure not to come forward too soon, which could lead to an interference call if the batter swings and hits the catcher. While catching the ball, the catcher should quickly move the glove-side leg forward into the throwing position , rotate the shoulders parallel to the batter's box, and bring the glove hand near the ear, where it should meet the throwing hand. The catcher can make the throw by transferring weight from the back leg to the front leg, rotating the shoulder, and following through. The follow-through involves bringing the throwing hand to the opposite knee while stepping towards second base with the throwing-side leg

GLOVE TO THE BALL - KNEES TO THE GLOVE DRILL
I think the two primary skills for high school catchers are blocking and throwing effectively. These two skills take the longest to develop, and therefore are the two we spend the most time working on. I would like to share our techniques for developing blocking skills. The basic process cue is : "Glove to the ball - knees to the glove". The difficulty is that most try to do it the opposite way. The teaching process is this;

1. In a catcher's stance, no glove, 3 balls arranged in a shallow triangle. The first ball is dead center behind the plate, the second to the right and forward, the third to the left and forward. Balls 2 and 3 are even with each other. Catcher falls forward to the ball on his hands, then brings both knees to his hands. Do this with each of the balls, emphasizing that the angle of the body must deflect the ball onto home plate.

2. In a stance, with glove. Catcher puts glove to the ball, then brings knees to the glove. Do with each ball position 'til the move comes easy.

3. Full gear, throw soft balls (tennis or indoor balls). Catcher blocks by glove to ground/ball then knees to ball. We are short tossing at this point.

4. Full distance soft ball toss. Same process.

5. Hard balls, short throws.

6. Full distance throws medium speed to called area.

7. Full distance throw hard to called area.

8. Full distance throws to varied areas.

Once we are satisfied with the technique development, we work regularly in bouts of 50 blocks, 10 at a time. Catchers work in pairs. In season we cut back to 25 blocks What we have seen is that catchers will cup over the ball naturally using this technique. They become active players, like infielders charging the ball, rather than targets for missiles. The final step is to add block the ball then get up and recover it. This is the best and quickest method I've seen and/or used. Hope it helps.
 

CATCHER BLOCKING PROGRAM
 

1) Shadow Blocking (No ball)
Coach stands behind the catcher. Catcher assumes their stance. The coach tells the catcher what pitch is thrown and where. The coach will give the catcher a few seconds to get ready. When the coach claps their hands, the catcher will assume the blocking position and hold. The coach or other players will check their form to make sure the catcher is in a good position. The drill can be varied by giving the catcher less time between pitch and location and the clap, or the catcher will go on verbal commands only.

2) Sit and Get Hit
Coach gets on one knee from a short distance. The catcher assumes the blocking position. The coach will throw the ball in the dirt and off the chest of the catcher. The catcher gets the feeling of balls coming off their body.

3) Medium Toss
Coach stands half-way between the mound and home plate. The catcher assumes their stance. Coach will throw balls in the dirt and the catcher will block, retrieve, and get their body in a position to throw.

4) Standard Toss
Coach stands on the mound. The catcher assumes their stance. Coach will throw balls in the dirt and the catcher will block, retrieve, and get their body in a position to throw.

5) Up-Downs
Lay out five balls five feet apart. The catcher will shuffle to each ball, assume the blocked position, get up and shuffle to the next ball. The object is to work on quickness down to the ball and up from the ball. Make sure the catcher's hands are moving in the correct position on the way up. The drill can be varied by having the catcher not only go down all five, but moving to the other side and returning to where they started.

6) Hands Drill
The catcher should start in the down position with a ball placed in front of them. When the coach says go, the catcher fires their hands out to the side and away from the ball, gets to their feet quickly, rakes in the ball and gets their body in a position to throw the baseball.

7) Zone Blocking
Acceptable activity for when practice is getting monotonous and the catchers need a change of pace. Assign three zones and points for each (5, 3, -5). The first zone should be 3 feet by 3 feet starting at the catchers feet, the second zone should be 5 feet by 5 feet starting at the catchers feet, the third zone is anything outside zone two. Catcher assumes stance while the coach stands on the mound. The coach will throw balls in the dirt. The catcher should block, retrieve the balls in a zone and then get their body in a position to throw. Each catcher gets an established number of trials. Add up points and assign a winner.

8) Batting Practice
There is no substitute for blocking live during an established period of time during batting practice. This prevents the catcher from sitting back and creating bad habits during batting practice.

9) Bullpens
The bull pen should be utilized not only by pitchers preparing to enter the game, but also by catchers as well. The catcher should report to the bullpen in full gear and have their game face on. No balls should ever get by a catcher in the bullpen. Take pride in your abilities.

CATCHER FRAMING PROGRAM
1) Shadow
Catcher starts out in their stance. Coach holds a ball in front of the catcher and moves it around the strike zone. The catcher follows the path of the baseball and frames the area. The catcher should work on body movement and catching the ball in halves.

2) One Knee Underhand Toss
Coach gets on one knee five to ten feet from the catcher. The coach will underhand toss a ball to the catcher. The catcher will work on body movement and catching the ball in halves. The benefit of this approach is that the coach is close enough that they can be more accurate with their toss and work all areas.

3) Medium Toss
Coach stands up and throws pitches to a catcher from 40-50 feet. This allows the catcher to track the ball from a longer distance. The catcher will still work on body movement and catching the ball in halves.

4) Catching Batting Practice and Bullpens
This is as close to a live game situation as a catcher can experience. It is very important that a catcher not go through the motions when catching batting practice or a bullpen. This must be a highly intense environment and must be taken seriously.
 

FIELDING BUNTS PROGRAM
1) Three ball.
Place one ball near the first base line, one up the middle, and one near the third base line. Catcher will assume their stance. Coach will stand behind and call out which ball to field. Catcher will attack the ball, field it, and make a strong and accurate throw to a base.

2) Over the shoulder toss.
Catcher will assume their stance. Coach will stand behind the catcher with a ball. The coach will toss the ball over the catchers shoulder. The catcher will field it and throw to a base. A variation can used by telling the catcher that the runner has great speed and they must hurry. Also, the coach can throw it far enough that a throw to first would be late. The catcher will execute a full arm fake and throw out the lead runner who may have drifted off a base.
 

THROWING FOOTWORK PROGRAM
1) Catcher with ball.
The catcher starts out with the ball in their glove. Coach will be in front of the catcher. The coach will instruct the catcher to use either load and throw or jump pivot. The catcher will execute the footwork and throw to a partner. Make sure to work both methods of throwing footwork.

2) One knee partner/coach toss.
Catcher at home plate. Partner or coach a few feet in front on one knee. Partner or coach will toss ball to catcher who is already in their stance. The catcher will catch the ball and execute proper throwing footwork and throw to another partner. Being on one knee and tossing the ball will allow the partner or coach to put the ball exactly where they want to work. Also, this will assist the catcher in working on both types of throwing footwork.

3) Medium/Full toss.
Coach will stand half-way or on the mound and throw pitches to the catcher who has already assumed their stance. The catcher will execute footwork determined by the pitch and throw to a partner behind the coach
 

FIELDING TIPS & DRILLS

DRILLS
 

Beginning of the Season Drill
    Drill to judge which players are outfielders and which are infielders
Bucket Drill
    Teaches quick release, fielding and throwing accuracy to first base
Catch...NOT Fetch Drill
    Drill for improving the quality of warm-up throws
Charging Drill
    Improves the player's ability to charge a softly hit ground ball
Countdown Drill
    Fun drill to help 1st and 2nd graders develop good hands, quick release, and hustle to a loose ball
Double Play Drill
    Allows the coach to see fielding and throwing skills
Fence Drill
    Quickens reaction time to grounders and line drives using lateral movement
Field Throw and Run Drill
    Helps with getting into a proper fielding position, lateral movement, throwing, and running
Get it Out! Drill
    Helps ensure proper extension when fielding ground balls
Hoover Drill
    Gets players to feel like a vacuum and suck up all ground balls.
Lateral Movement Drill
    Improves the player's ability to react and move laterally in fielding a ground ball
Lateral Pick-up Drill
    Improves the player's ability to assume a good defensive position in fielding a ground ball
Over The Shoulder Catch Drill
    Improves the player's ability to catch a fly ball over the shoulder
Perfection Game Drill
    Makes infield play fun and competitive and puts the players in pressure situations
Play 500 Drill
    Fun competitive drill for outfielders that combines many fielding skills
Soft Hands Drill
    Emphasizes the use of the top hand to ensure the ball doesn't become loose
Soft hands - Quick release Drill

    Helps infielders to develop "soft" hands and release the ball quickly
The Rebound Drill
    Helps outfielders with fielding a ball that hit the fence then turning and throwing 100-125 feet

GAMES
Point Game
    Game that teaches the importance of backing up one another when fielding a ground ball

The Pit Game  

    Practice fielding ground balls
 

BEGINNING OF THE SEASON DRILL
use this drill at the beginning of the season. It gives players a lot of reps at fielding ground balls and fly balls. It is a great drill at the beginning of the season as a judge to see which players are outfielders and which are infielders.

The drill requires two fungos, one on the first base side of home and one on the third base side of home about half way between the bases. The drill works best with 10 players. Each fungo has a shagger. Align four players at the infielder positions. The other four players should play outfield, with a LF, LCF, RCF and a RF. The 1B fungo hits ground balls to the third baseman and shortstop who return the ball to his shagger. He then hits fly balls to the LF and LCF who relay to the 3B and SS respectively. The 3B fungo hits ground balls to the 2B and 1B who return to the third base shagger he then hits fly balls to the RCF and RF who relay to the 2B and 1B respectively. After three reps the players rotate.

The 1B becomes shagger for the third base fungo, while the 3B shagger moves to LF. The RF becomes shagger for 1B fungo, while the 1B shagger moves to 3B. All other player rotate to the position on their left.

If you have more than 10 players this is also a great time for you to have your pitchers and catchers working off to the side, out of the way of badly thrown balls.

This can be a little dangerous if not done with caution since two balls are going at once, but it is a great way to evaluate the players and the rotating keeps them from getting bored.

BUCKET DRILL
This drill is designed to teach the kids to get rid of the ball and not hold it. The younger kids sometimes get confused and just hold the ball.

The drill consists of your squad broken into two teams. The first team will line up one behind the other in the shortstop position. The others line up behind first base. A five gallon bucket is placed upside down on first base. A coach will drop a ball in front of the first person in line. The player has 3 seconds (which the coach counts out loudly) to pick up the ball and throw at the bucket. If the bucket is missed the fielders behind first will field the ball and throw it back to the coach. This drill works best with a large number of balls. You go through each team member 4-5 times and keep track of the hits. Switch sides and keep score.

We also have both teams lined up and throwing at the same time and run it on a timed basis. This however involves a large number of coaches. If you have the parental involvement the head to head is also a huge hit with the kids.

The kids thrive on the competition. This teaches quick release, fielding, throwing accuracy and keeping the throw where the first baseman can catch it. This is huge hit with the kids year after year.
 

CATCH...NOT FETCH DRILL
For kids from 5 years to 10 years old, one of the most frustrating drills for the players and the coach is the warm-up throws.

No matter what you say, the two lines will grow farther and farther apart, the kids will start throwing huge rainbows to each other and they will spend most of the drill running after the balls.

But this is a necessary evil as the kids need their arms and shoulders stretched and warm and they need to develop catching and throwing, or else they will be playing defense all day long.

Here's a drill to get your team to stop playing FETCH and to start playing catch:

First, circle up your players with 15-20 feet between players and coach in the middle. Give one player a ball and have them throw to the next player (clockwise or counterclockwise). Have them throw around easy until you get 2 laps and expect them to drop it a few times.

After 2 laps, tell them you want 2 more laps faster but anyone who drops a good throw or makes a wild throw will owe a lap around the outside of the circle.

You can inject a 2nd ball and a 3rd ball if they get going good. Also, you can develop the relay-pivot maneuver with this same circle drill.

You'll be amazed at how the challenge aspect of this drill perks of their enthusiasm and skills!! It really works.

CHARGING DRILL
The drill can have as many tossers as desired. Drill can have three or more players in the lines, which are about 70 feet in front of the tossers.

The tossers throws a ground ball so that the player has to charge the ball at about midway between the and the player. The player then throw the ball back to the tossers, turns to the right, and jogs back to the end of the line. A variation of this drill would be for infielders to start about 70 feet in front of the tossers, outfielders should start about 90 feet in front of the tossers. The tossers still attempts to throw the ground ball so that the player has to charge the ball at about midway between the tossers and the player. Rotation can also be varied so that the player replaces the tossers who in turns goes to the end of the line.

COUNTDOWN DRILL
This is a fun drill to help the 1st and 2nd graders develop good hands, quick release, and hustle to a loose ball. Have the players line up across from a partner about 20 feet apart. They are to make good throws back and forth as many times an they can while I count down from 30 to zero. The player who does not have the ball at zero wins. (Winning usually puts you in the first group for batting practice.) You should see the kids scramble for a dropped, or passed ball. Baseball is fun. Let's make practice fun too

DOUBLE PLAY DRILL
This fielding drill is called the "Double play drill". You will need a catcher, two players at 1st base, and the remaining players evenly divided at the shortstop and 2nd base positions.
 

The coach hits a ground ball to the SS position, the 2B player runs to 2B and then pivots and throws to 1B. The two players then go around to the end of the opposite line they came from.

Once everyone has had a chance to field at the SS position the coach then hits the ball to the 2B position, the SS covers 2B, then pivots and throws to 1B.

Once everyone has had a chance to field at 2B the coach then randomly hits the ball to either the SS or 2B position. The two players at 1B rotate positions every three catches. The second player at 1B acts as a backup for overthrows

FENCE DRILL
This drill is designed to quicken reaction time to grounders and line drives using lateral movement. We've been doing the following for several years with our summer 12 year old traveling squad.

At the end of each practice the entire team competes in a contest to see which player can keep the most out of ten balls from hitting a chain link fence at his back. The fungo hitter stands only thirty-five or so feet from the fielder. The fielder has 20 feet of fence to cover. The fence is 6 feet tall. We hit to the left and the right, up and down. The pace between fungos quickens. A clean catch is not necessary to score. The player need only keep the ball from hitting the fence to his rear. By the end of the summer players need from between 8 to 10 out of ten to win.

FIELD THROW AND RUN DRILL
This drill helps with the basic fundamentals such as getting into a proper fielding position, lateral movement, throwing, and lots of running. It also has the advantage of working indoors as well as outdoors.

Have three players line up about 70 feet from the rest of the group (everybody can participate) and give the first player in the line a ball. The rest of the group should line up slightly to the side so the fielder can run left or right. Then the player with the ball throws it on the ground to the first player on the other side, who fields it properly, throws it to the second player in the first line, and runs over to join the first line. The player who threw the grounder should run to the other line after his throw. This then continues until everybody is dead tired.

First throw the grounders to the left, then right, then straight on so the fielder has to run in and make an underhand flip. We usually round off with both sides throwing the ball back and forth instead off rolling it. In short: throw grounder and run; field, throw, and run. Vary the distance as well as putting only two players in the first line, which will force the players to really run unless they want the ball in their neck.

GET IT OUT! DRILL
Too often, young players make the mistake of fielding ground balls with their glove on the ground, directly below their crotch, rather than extended out in front of them. This drill helps ensure proper extension.

Lay a bat on the ground perpendicular to a line of players. The first player in line should be 6-8 feet from the bat in a ready position. Coach is 8-10 from the bat, opposite the players. Coach rolls ball toward the bat. Player must approach the ground ball and assume a good fielding position right at the bat, without his feet touching or going over it. In order to prevent the ball from rolling into the bat the player must have his glove extended, rather than hanging directly down below his crotch. Once player secures the ball he sprints forward and places the ball at the feet of the coach who is already rolling a ball to the next player. Continue until all players have had sufficient reps.

HOOVER DRILL
1. Have infielders start about 30-40 ft from coach or partner. Infielder starts with glove open and finger tips on the ground. Coach or partner rolls the ball to infielder. The glove stays in contact with the ground and open to the ball the entire time the ball is motion except for the last movement. The last movement can be up, but never down. this gets them to feel the old "stay down and work up" concept.

2. Have infielder start at position with coach or partner hitting a fungo to fielder. Need not hit too hard but can make the ball bounce a little (no big hoppers). The concept is the same.

If the player fields the ball correctly tell him so and build his confidence. If not, if hands go up then down, or player flips by showing the back of the glove and then flipping around, or if the glove leaves contact with the ground too early then the player does a sprint to the outfield fence and back or does pushups-Good Pushups.

Great drill to show and feel proper fielding of groundball technique when breaking down

LATERAL MOVEMENT DRILL
The drill has two tossers near the pitching area. Each tossers has two shaggers with one standing on each side of the tossers. The drill can have four or more players in each line. One line of players is at the shortstop's defensive position, while the other line of players is at the second baseman's defensive position.

The tossers throws a ground ball randomly to the right or left of the player making the player move laterally to field the ball. After fielding the ball, the player throws the ball back to the shagger on that side. Then the player turns to the outside and Jogs back to the end of the line.

 

LATERAL PICK-UP DRILL
Purpose:
1. To improve the players overall conditioning.
2. To improve the player's ability to move laterally and to assume a good defensive position in fielding a ground ball.

Procedure: The drill has one tossers and one player, who are 6-7 feet apart facing each other. (Pairs) Drill can have as many groups as desired.

The tossers rolls a ball about 5-6 feet out to the side. The player moves on a semicircular path to field the ball. After picking-up the ball, the player throws the ball back to the tossers. The tossers then rolls a ball about 5-6 feet out to the opposite side, and the player fields the ball in a similar manner. The drill sequence is repeated from five to 10 times depending on the player's conditioning level.

The number of repetitions is increased as the players conditioning level improves. It is important for the player to field the ball by moving on a semicircular path in order for the drill to be effective

OVER THE SHOULDER CATCH DRILL
Purpose: To improve the player's ability to catch a fly ball over the shoulder.

Procedure: The drill can have as many tossers as desired. The drill can have 4 or more players in each line. Each player has a ball.

The tossers stands on the left side of the player. The player hands the ball to the tossers, then runs out, and the tossers leads with a fly ball so that the player has to reach to catch the ball over the left shoulder. After catching or retrieving the ball, the player turns to the left, an jogs back to the end of the line.

A variation of this drill would be to work the players in a rotation of tossers, fielder, end of line. Make sure to have all players also work on fielding fly balls over the right shoulder

PERFECTION GAME DRILL
This drill makes infielding fun and competitive and puts the players in pressure situations.

Put your infielders in their positions with 2 players at each spot.

Rule is you must make play correctly and make good throw. If you don't do everything right, everyone on your infield team does push-ups and the next group goes.

Start with infield in and come to plate for force.
Next is infield in with runner on third.
Next is regular depth, nobody on.
Next is runner on first.
Next is runners on first and second.
Finally, move infield deep with nobody on.

You can allow for balls to be blocked as long as when they pick it up, they immediately throw it and don't pump it in their gloves.

If they do make a mistake, you start all over with that team on the step they were on. The team that loses does sit-ups while the others go home

PLAY 500 DRILL
During midseason when all your offense and defense's are installed and your practices are basic maintenance, a good competitive drill for the outfielders is called "500". It combines as many skills as you want as well as being fun for the players. We usually break it down into 2 days so the drill itself doesn't get too repetitive.

On day 1 the four skills are ground balls to the left and right around cones, line drives and fly balls against the fence. On day 2 it is deep fly ball to the left and right, do - or - dies and sliding catches. If the player does the skill correctly and completes the play then they get 25 points. If they don' t do the skill correctly or don't complete the play then they get a -25 points. If a player makes a spectacular play on the sliding catch, for instance, the then coach can give them an extra 5 to 10 points.

You can obviously use any combination of skills that you want for any of the positions. I suggest that you include at least one skill that is fun for the players like the sliding catch drill. We usually let the 1st and 2nd place winners choose their field cleanup chore. When we do this drill the other position players can also be "playing" this drill.

It is a great drill because you can get something productive done and the players aren't bored.

SOFT HANDS DRILL
One of the basic fielding drills that our kids use is called the "Soft Hands" drill.

Take a ping-pong paddle and cut the handle off and stapled a batting glove to the back. The player puts his glove hand in the glove and fields ground balls from a fungo. The drill emphasizes the use of the top hand, to ensure the ball doesn't become loose and so that the throwing hand is there to throw or flip the ball.

SOFT HANDS - QUICK RELEASE DRILL
This drill helps infielders to develop "soft" hands and release the ball quickly and one that helps with lateral movement and fielding.

Have four infielders form a square with about 10 ft. between them. Then, without gloves they flip the ball around counter-clockwise, then shift direction and gradually increase the distance. In the other one divide the infielders into pairs and have them face their partner at a distance of about 10 to 15ft., then, while moving sideways they roll the ball to each other a couple of times before shifting direction. It's important in this drill that the fielders stay low and get rid of the ball quickly

THE REBOUND DRILL
This will help develop the skill of fielding a ball that hit the fence, then turning toward their the gloved hand and throwing 100-125 feet to a relay man with no bounce.

Procedure: Have the players form a single line, the first person becomes the fielder and a coach or the second person in line throws the ball past the fielder up against the fence. The play is made, then the second person in line becomes the fielder and the original fielder goes to the end of the line.

Remember to check if the fielder is turning toward the gloved hand and that the throws are at head height. Make sure their arms are warmed up and in condition and don't let them make to many throws unless there as some rest in between.


 

POINT GAME
Split your team up into an A and B team. Have the A team spread out between second and third base and the B team spread out between second base and first base.

Once this is accomplished, have a coach (from home plate) hit ground balls to each teams side. If a ball gets through on either side of the infield and makes it to the outfield grass, then that team receives a point. First team with ten points losses.

Kids love this game and are really aggressive (diving) going after the ball. This game has also taught my kids the importance of backing up one another when fielding a ground ball.

THE PIT GAME
This game is similar to the Point game, but this game is an individual competition.

Have each player take a turn in the Pit. The Pit is a 8-10 feet horizontal span area up against any type of wall surface. Have each player take a turn in the Pit receiving a ground ball. If the any ball gets past the player in the Pit, within the span area, then he or she is out of the game. For the player who field the ground ball cleanly and makes an accurate throw back to the coaches hitting, make the ground balls faster and tougher.

We usually use a soft baseball in case the ball is missed (the ball then goes directly off the wall and back towards the player) and in situations were the players are fielding cleanly and the balls are starting to come faster

HITTING TIPS & DRILLS

DRILLS

Badminton Drill
    Fine tune weak areas of a player's swing by using a smaller
Bat Speed Drill
    Increases a player's bat speed
Broomstick Drill
    Increases concentration on point of contact
Bunting Technique Drill
    Improves a player's bunting technique
Colored Ball Drill
    Improves reaction time and critical thinking at the plate
Hip Turner Drill
    Develops quicker hips and the relationship of hip speed to the entire swing
HIT OR DIE!! Drill
    Helps the hitter to stay back and wait in order to hit the outside pitch
Hitting to All Fields Drill
    Helps younger players learn to hit inside and outside pitches
Hitting to the Opposite Field Drill
    Makes the hitter stay behind the ball and hit to their opposite side
Low Outside Tee Drill
    Makes players aware of the club head's position and the importance of keeping their eyes on the ball
One Handed Bunting Drill
    Improves grip and bat angle when bunting
Pitch Behind Drill
    Prevents timid hitters from backing out to avoid being hit by a pitch
Roll Away - Fence Drill
    Helps players overcome fear of the ball by teaching them how to roll away from a pitch
Short screen Drill
    Forces the hitter to think about the hitting situation by using a count
Stay Back Drill
    Teaches the players to
T-Drill Drill
    Helps hitters to gain a level-compact smooth swing

PROGRAMS
Hitting Improvement Program
    Situations, tips and drills to improve hitting and awareness at the plate
Soft Toss Drills Program
    Series of drills to improve bat speed, motor skills, awareness, concentration and power
Teaching Hitters Program
    A collection of drills and tips run at 3 stations for improving hitting techniques
 

TIPS
  

   BETTER VISION AT THE PLATE TIP
Too often times young players are encouraged to close their stance at the plate (i.e. placing their front foot closer to the plate than their rear foot) thus limiting their vision of the ball. Usually this results in their "pulling off" or away from the pitch when striding.

I try to encourage more kids to "open" their stance by placing their front foot further from the plate and encouraging them to stride in towards the ball. This allows them better vision of the pitch and an easier feeling of getting away from the pitch inside, potentially at them.

   CORRECTING STEP OUT TIP
Many young players will take their front foot and step away from a pitch as they swing, thus pulling them off the ball. A coach can lay face down and holding the players ankles, keep his step in line with the pitch. The player begins to adapt to the foot placement. I recommend that the coach wear a helmet while doing this.

Once the player starts making contact with the ball, he has demonstrated to himself that he can hit when he doesn't back away. Depending on the age and experience of the player, this can take anywhere from 10 minutes and up.

   FENCES TIP
The player stands with a bat facing a fence. He should then take the bat and put the end against the fence lightly. The end of the handle should make slight contact with the player's mid-section. He can now take his normal batting stance at that distance from the fence and take about ten or fifteen swings. If the bat is making more than light contact with the fence, the batter is not bringing his hands through first, which he should be. To get a player to bring his hands first, have him take his normal step as if to swing, only have him "throw" the end of the handle of the handle towards the ball. If he continues to do this, it will increase his bat speed and he will probably hit the ball harder.
 

  SHORTER STROKE TIP
At the college level, just like at the little league and above level, we are constantly looking for ways to decrease the length of the batter's stroke. I have found 2 ways that I feel will work to help do this with ANY age player.

The first way is to have them "pinch" their elbows together and hit the ball in this position. What this does is eliminate that long front or "lead" arm before the swing. It emphasizes the hands more during the swing which will help shorten the stroke. Try it first off of a tee or soft toss to get the player comfortable.

Also, we have the player's hit off of a tee and place a tall cone or short chair right behind the tee. The idea is to get something that is about up to the hitter's waist or slightly above and make them swing "down" to hit the ball off the tee and not swing "up" and try to "pick" the ball off of the tee. It is really quite challenging and will be immediately rewarding to the hitter. Also, the feedback is instant if they do "loop" and hit the object behind the tee.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DRILLS

BADMINTON DRILL
A great drill we use for hitting is to use badminton birdies. Simply have a coach stand 10-15 feet from the batter and throw the birdies into the strike zone. This drill enables batters to take LOTS of swings in a relatively short period of time. It also allows the coach to place the "pitch" exactly where he wants it, thus enabling the batter to work on weak areas of their swing.

Another drill we use is a variation on the traditional "soft toss"; rather than baseballs, we toss mini marshmallows so the batter is forced to fine tune his swing for the smaller target. You wouldn't believe how big a baseball looks after this

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BAT SPEED DRILL
Put a weighted donut on your regular baseball bat and hit eight baseballs. (overload)

Hit eight baseballs with a fungo bat. (under load)

Hit eight baseballs with your regular bat.

I conduct this drill in a soft toss situation and do 2 sets 2-3 times a week. Over the course of 4 to 6 weeks you should see a positive increase in bat speed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BROOMSTICK DRILL
Make a couple of bats from broomsticks about 30" for little league. Purchase practice plastic golf balls at any sporting goods store. Have players break up into two groups of four, one player pitching, one hitting and two others for retrieval. At first players will have difficulty making contact but with concentration on point of contact they will begin hitting consistently.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BUNTING TECHNIQUE DRILL
Purpose: To improve players bunting technique.

Procedure: A protective screen is in the middle of the pitching area. The drill has two pitchers and two catchers. Pitcher one is in front of the protective screen and throws to home plate. Pitcher two is behind the protective screen and throws to second base. Each pitcher has a bucket of baseballs and each catcher has an empty bucket. The hitters are divided into two groups, with one group at home plate and the second group at second base.

Hitter 1 bunts a specific bunt and runs to first base, while at the same time, hitter 2 bunts a specific bunt and runs to third base. Then the hitters jog to the ends of the opposite lines. For time efficiency, the balls not contacted by the hitter are placed in the catcher's ball bucket, thereby allowing the pitcher to prepare for the next pitch.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COLORED BALL DRILL
Paint several baseballs with different bright colors (solids, of course) and place in a bucket behind mound. Have assistant place ball in glove of pitching coach (ball hidden from batter). Pitcher checks color of ball then calls out any color or the actual color of ball in glove. The batter can only swing at the ball that matches the color the coach called out, and if the pitch is in the hitting zone.

Variation-

Soft toss two balls at once. Just before tossing, coach tells batter which color to hit.

If you only have white baseballs - tell batter to hit top or bottom ball.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HIP TURNER DRILL
Purpose: Development of quicker hips and the relationship of hip speed to the entire swing.

Procedure: Place a bat behind the waist, horizontal to the ground, and use a glove as home plate. While holding the ends of the bat in the hands, assume a normal batting stance and watch an imaginary pitch being delivered. Execute a stride and quick turn using the bat to help turn the hips faster. Finish in the proper contact point position.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HIT OR DIE!! DRILL
HIT OR DIE!!
That's what I call my latest drill to catch their interest before they know what it's all about. Ever get tired of telling the hitter he needs to stay back and wait in order to hit the outside pitch? When they go the "other way" the whole swing changes, they loose their hips or twist their torso to inside out the ball?) and watch for proper reaction. Repeat this drill until the hitter's natural reaction is to turn away. Good Luck!

TRY THIS: Turn the hitter sideways in the tunnel as if you were to do flip ups into the net right in front of him. Now stand directly to the side of him so that you are facing directly at his chest. Give him a few soft tosses right at him and make keep his same swing. After a couple now back off to about twenty/twenty-five feet and pitch over handed directly at his belt buckle. Obviously, you are not throwing your hardest, but keep the speed up so the ball isn't arcing, a moderate pitch. Now when he strides, he must keep his hands back or the ball hits him. I'm not nuts guys, believe me, they hit the ball AND they stay back.

They can now say they survived HIT OR DIE!

Remember, when a batter has a good swing, any kind of hitting drill is good for him. Variety is the spice of life doing drills also.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HITTING TO ALL FIELDS DRILL
I have found this drill will help younger players learn to hit inside and outside pitches and learn "their pitch".

Split your team into 2 equal teams talent wise. Set a line of cones or other suitable separators directly down center field.

Play "over the line" and alternate between left field and right field. Have a coach pitch from the mound or regulation distance.

We will play a 4 inning game, closing the right side the first inning, then closing the left side the next. It is imperative that your coach that is pitching is accurate. For right handers, when left field is closed your pitcher must pitch to the outside so they can "go with the pitch" and have a chance to hit to right. When right field is closed and left is open, your pitcher must give "middle-in" pitches. We give our hitters 3 strikes. All other "over the line rules that you deem fit apply. Of course another benefit is defensive glove work.

This game forces your hitters to hit the outside pitch that they will inevitably see when they are behind in the count. It also allows them to attack "their pitch" (for most hitters, the middle in pitch)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HITTING TO THE OPPOSITE FIELD DRILL
A drill that I have found very effective and easy to do is to set up for batting practice regularly. Then have the pitcher throw the ball from a shortened distance and from the opposite field side ( i.e. for a right handed hitter, the pitcher throws from between the mound and 1b). This creates the angle to make the hitter "stay behind" the ball and hit the other way.

We tell our guys they have to get out if they hit the ball to the "pull" side of the mound. Also, make sure the batter faces the regular mound and does not turn towards the new mound.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LOW OUTSIDE TEE DRILL
This drill will make players aware of the club head's position and the importance of keeping your eyes on the ball.

Simply use a tee and a youth bat, about 28 inches long. Set the tee like a low outside pitch and have the players hit a ball off it. This should be done at first with large groups because everybody will get a good laugh to see their teammates swing wildly in the air. After a while they learn to aim the club head at the ball instead of merely swinging the bat through the strike zone.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ONE HANDED BUNTING DRILL
One Handed Bunting--Players get into groups of 3 or 4 for max bunts. The drill is to grip the bat with the top hand at the balance point of the bat, then bunt that way. All the things you try to teach such as grip, bat angle, 'catch the ball with the bat', etc. happen naturally just by bunting one handed. It is a simple finishing job to add the bottom hand to steer the ball, and leads easily into drag and push bunts.

A few minutes of practice gives lots of skill and leaves that much more time to HIT.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PITCH BEHIND DRILL
The timid little-league batter always seems to assume that backing out or stepping out toward third base will automatically prevent him from being hit by the pitch. You might notice that he starts his getaway before he has any notion of where the pitch is really headed. I have had some success against this tendency by throwing behind the timid batter's back. After all, he will get plenty of these pitches at the little league level, and you don't want him backing into them, getting hurt, and becoming even more afraid.

If the habit is deeply ingrained, you might want to start out with tennis balls. You can also start by throwing a lot of pitches behind him, then gradually decrease the frequency of these pitches as he starts to break the habit. Soon he will realize that he had better not back up until he sees where the ball is really going. This will make him much safer at the plate, which will appeal to the timid batter right away. And while he's watching the ball more closely, he's going to realize that he doesn't have to hide from the good pitches, but can stay put and hit them instead. I have seen it work!

Another simple drill I use with these hitters is to have them stand-in at the plate and take short practice steps in the proper direction (toward the pitcher), over and over again. If he's very timid, tell him to think about stepping toward the second baseman (or the shortstop, for lefties). In his fear, he will adjust his step back to the middle, which is where you wanted it in the first place. After 15 or 20 reps, we resume pitching to him. Admittedly, this won't work miracles in the worst cases, but sometimes it's enough of a push to get a player hitting.

Another thing: Sometimes you're using a drill for a pitcher and a catcher, and you just need a batter to stand in without swinging (maybe you're getting a new pitcher gradually used to the idea of pitching to a batter, or getting a new catcher used to the idea of having that bat swinging around in his peripheral vision). At these times, choose one of your more timid kids to stand in, and have him concentrate on watching the pitch closely all the way. This gives him a chance to practice this without the pressure of trying to hit the ball.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ROLL AWAY - FENCE DRILL
Fear of the baseball is often one of the biggest obstacles to good hitting. It can lead to "stepping in the bucket", poor balance and "pulling the head" (or pulling off the ball). Although it's normal to have a healthy respect for the baseball, abnormal fear of being hit by the ball can cripple an otherwise good hitter. Any player who has trouble rolling away from a pitch thrown at him (i.e., turning toward the catcher so the ball will hit him on the backside) needs to practice this drill until it becomes natural.

Here's how it goes:
First explain the importance of rolling away from a pitched ball. Ask the players if they would rather be hit in the face, throat, stomach, groin or back. Most will say back, others can take a lap. Demonstrate how to roll away, then proceed with the drill.

Find a fence or backstop the hitter can stand behind. It must be high and wide enough so he cannot be hit with a ball thrown from the other side. The hitter stands behind the fence with a bat. The pitcher stands pitching distance away on the other side of the fence (the fence separates the 2). Place a glove or portable base down (on the batter's side) to act as home plate while making sure to leave enough room for the batter to take a full swing. The pitcher throws to the plate and the batter swings normally (if the pitch is a strike). Of course he won't make contact with the ball because it will be stopped by the fence before it reaches him. Throw a few strikes initially then randomly throw directly at the fence in front of the hitter. Don't let up, let it fly.

Vary the location and be sure to mix it up so the hitter doesn't get into a habit of turning away every time (make sure he continues to swing at strikes). Throw at different parts of the body (including just behind the head) and watch for proper reaction. Repeat this drill until the hitter's natural reaction is to turn away. Good Luck!


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SHORT SCREEN DRILL
We station a tossers seated behind an L-screen approximately 30 feet away from the hitter (tossers should wear helmet and stay well behind the screen.) The tossers can pinpoint the corners and move the ball up and down throwing a high percentage of strikes from this distance. The hitter is forced to react quickly.

To further the effectiveness of the drill we have the tossers shout a count just before delivering the ball (i.e. 3-0, or 1-2, etc.). This forces the hitter to think about the type of hitting situation that he is confronted with before offering. For example, in a 3 ball situation the hitter may decide to take a questionable pitch for ball 4 whereas in a 2 strike situation they must guard the dish. Also we will vary the situational hitting by having the tossers shout out where runners are as well as out count. This further reinforces the concept of productive at bats while giving a mental focus to what can otherwise become a repetitive drill.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STAY BACK DRILL
One drill we use is with wiifle balls and badminton birdies. The main purpose of the drill is to teach the players to "stay back" on off speed pitches. When the whiffle ball is thrown you will get a simulated fastball. When a birdie is thrown it starts at the same speed as the wiffle ball, but will die down and drop. Players need to learn to wait for the birdie to get there.

Another drill we use is set up like soft toss. The feeder bounces the ball in front of the batter. He then says "fastball" or "curve." If he says fastball, the batter should swing at the ball on the way up from its bounce. If the feeder says curve, the batter must wait for the ball to come down from its apex.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

T-DRILL DRILL
You will need to pair off your players for this drill .To set up this drill, put the batting tee on top of home plate. Using home plate will allow your player to get a comfortable feel for being at the plate and not the tee. One player puts the ball on the tee the other hits it. It is a good idea to move the tee around home plate so that your players get used to hitting the ball from different pitches. This drill helps develop the skill for good contact with the ball. Make sure the hitters concentrate on contact and watch the ball as they swing.
 

 

 

 

 

PROGRAMS

HITTING IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
A. SITUATIONS: Emphasize hitting fast ball.

COUNTS

1. (0-0, 1-0, 1-1): hit only fast ball you like (in your "zone")

2. (2-0, 3-1): zone fast ball you hit best

3. (2-1): most cases .... zone fast ball
   HOWEVER ... take into account pitcher's ability and previous 3 pitch selections; may have to look curve or change

4. (3-0): take unless in your zone (the pitch you came to the park to hit) if swinging .... don't jump on just any pitch - look for a pitch in your zone

5. (0-1): no change in attitude .... get a fast ball

6. (2 strikes): attitude changes .... always look fast ball but react to curve and change
   WAIT, WAIT, WAIT!!! strike zone is widened to black of the plate THE FURTHER AHEAD IN THE COUNT YOU GET, THE SMALLER YOUR STRIKE ZONE BECOMES; THE FURTHER BEHIND IN THE COUNT YOU GET, THE BIGGER YOUR STRIKE ZONE BECOMES.

B. DRILLS (do at every practice)

1. Tees (100): 33 high, 34 middle, 33 low --- alternate hitting to left, center, right
2. Toss (100): alternate hitting to left, center, right
3. Backside flips (25): reverse toss drills, emphasis on waiting to hit curve and change
4. Weak-side swings (25): hitting one-handed with non-throwing hand
5. Turns (25): bat behind back, emphasis on hitting with hips
 

C. GAME-DAY DRILLS (do before every game!!!)

1. Tees (50)
2. Toss (50)
3. Backside flips (15)
4. Turns (15)
5. Short toss (10-10-5): pitcher throws from 30-40 feet with tennis balls or IncrediBalls (20 swings, 5 bunts)

D. VISION

1. Watch front shoulder of pitcher.
2. Move vision to release point just as ball is released.
3. Study pitcher to find release point.
4. Read pitcher's arm release to see where ball is going.
5. Track ball into your hitting zone.
6. Hand release shows where ball is going (high/low, in/out).
7. If at release point ball is level with hand --- fast ball.
8. If at release point ball is above hand --- curve or change.

 

 

 

 

 

 

SOFT TOSS DRILLS PROGRAM
In this lesson we use four soft toss drills to focus on some key elements of hitting.

We usually use regular soft toss to warm the hitter up: 30 reps. First, we rotate our hands holding two balls and toss them in an inconsistent sporadic pattern. This develops bat speed upon eye contact. Eventually the more experienced hitter could be tossed fakes as well. While the tossers is spinning the ball he actually fakes twice and then releases one. The next he just tosses. 30 reps.

The second drill is motor skills and awareness. Hold two balls in one hand with two fingers separating the two. Hold the balls as if they were stacked upon each other. Before tossing the balls, call out top or bottom. This forces the hitter to actually think about which ball to hit upon a command . This will also fine tune their concentration.30 reps.

The third is the most difficult and possibly the best. The tossers should stand up close to the plate but just out of bat distance. The tossers holds the ball high in the air above the front part of the plate and drops the ball. The batter depending on his eyes to initiate the swing has to hit the ball before the ball touches the ground. His technique is critical in this drill. Make sure his step, hips, balance, and head are all in correct form. 30 reps.

The last is where the tossers stands behind the hitter tossing the ball from his knee through the hitters strike zone. The batter has to accelerate his bat after the ball. This develops pull arm strength and overall power.15 reps.

P.S. Fatigue develops bad habits so make sure the hitter rests twice the amount of time spent hitting.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TEACHING HITTERS PROGRAM
Station 1
1) Top hand should hold bottom thumb to simulate holding a bat. Top hand should also hold a ball. Throw the ball into a net for all direction of hits (pull, middle, opposite field). The throw causes arms to extend and rolls wrist to attain a down and in or out swing.

2) The "Slap" technique involves two players. Have one player kneel in front of batter with a hand outstretched in the strike zone. The batter then swings at the outstretched hand and slaps it with both hands. This keeps the front shoulder in.

3) For a player that sweeps, stick a batting glove under the front arm pit to ensure that the swing stays closed and the batter doesn't fly open.

Station 2 (Make sure that on these drills, the batter is in his full stride, but weight is back)
1) Rapid Fire: Use three balls and soft toss them immediately upon contact, one right after the other. This develops quick hands.

2) Drop ball: Have a batter and tossers stand parallel with each other with the left foot in line with the left foot of each. The tossers drops the ball from eye level and from a knee. You may think that the players may be too close to each other, and that is a legitimate thought. If the batter doesn't swing correctly, he will hit the tossers. A little encouragement for the batter.

3) Fastball Drill: It is soft toss but from a distance and with more speed. Tossers stands to the side of batter and about 10 feet away and tosses underhand with a little bit more on the ball.

4) Back feed Extension: It is soft toss from behind the batter. Stand about 5 feet directly behind the batter and toss ball into strike zone. The batter can look at the tossers the first few times, but then must do it blindly. Develops quick hands.

Station 3
1) Batter kneels and tossers throws ball to bill of cap to emphasize that the batter chops down at the ball.

2) Batter stands and same drill as above, except tossers throws to nose level and out in front.

3) Use two "T's." Place a ball on the front "T" about two inches lower than back "T." Swing to hit ball on front "T."

 

 

 

 

PITCHING TIPS & DRILLS

 

DRILLS
 

Balance Beam Drill
    Forces pitchers to keep their balance throughout their motion

Cloth Slap Drill
    Develops snap of wrist, delivery of ball out front of body and follow through
Control Drill
    Develops a pitcher's awareness of the strike zone
Hand Off Drill
    Gives a pitcher better snap on the ball and reduces side-arming
Sit and Hit the Bulls Eye Drill
    Requires pitchers to keep their elbow above the shoulder, and a good rotation of the shoulders
Stepping on the Line Drill
    Keeps the pitcher's hips and shoulders from opening early
Tarp Drill
    Develops a pitcher's ball control
The Balance Drill
    Improves pitching control problems through good balance
The Goalpost Drill
    Teaches pitching with the lower body, and keeping the elbows up
The Plate Drill
    Gets the young pitcher to deliver more consistently controlled pitches
The Wall Drill
    Makes sure that the pitcher isn't getting long in the back when pitching
Weight Back Drill
    Alleviates rushing the lower body and develops a good rhythm and pace

TIPS
 

  5 STEP PITCHING TIP
Short back one. The most common mistake is stepping to the side and moving out of the tunnel. Make a small baby step straight back.

Step and turn two. The most common mistake here is losing eye contact with the target. Be sure you keep your hands together and high.

High three. There are 2 ways to get here. Pick the leg or swing the leg. Pickers have better control. The higher the leg at three the faster the fastball.

Front four. Leave high three by bending the back knee, so you can drop and drive. Square up everything as the front foot lands. Make a 90 degree angle with the arm to side, at the elbow and keep the wrist straight and loose.

Low five. Finish in a low fielding position to protect yourself and to make your delivery consistent.
 

 

  EYE CONTACT WHILE PITCHING TIP
To help a young pitcher maintain better eye contact with his catcher, he should not bring his hands and arms up over his head when starting his wind up. This blocks his vision twice and serves no purpose. Have young pitchers bring their hands up to their chest instead. Remember, it doesn't matter how far over his head a pitcher raises his arms up, he still has to bring them down. Don't waste the motion.

 

 

PIVOT KNEE TIP
Many young pitchers hold their glove at their shoulder during the pitch and do not properly rotate at the shoulders. In order to promote proper rotation of the shoulders, I have my pitchers kneel on their pivot knee (right knee if you are right handed) with left leg extended. Hands are in the gathered position and the ball is thrown at half speed to a catcher. I look for full follow thru with the pitching hand ending up outside the left calf and the left hand rotates to take the glove behind and try to touch the numbers.
 

 

 

SIX COMPONENTS TIP
In working with young pitchers, make clear that good pitching takes good practice. Pitching skills won't develop by just throwing the ball, but pitchers can learn by throwing at a target, facing a hitter and trying to use a consistent, correct delivery. Break the pitching motion down to six component skills.

GRIPPING THE BALL:
Teach your players that holding the ball in their fingertips - as opposed to jamming it into the hand - will help them get good velocity and wrist snap for control . Have your pitchers vary their grips on the seams to experiment with the fastball and change - ups. For example, gripping the with seams causes the pitch to sink; gripping the ball across the seams makes the pitch appear to rise.

DELIVERY:
As with general throws from the field of play, the overhand delivery is the most effective throwing motion for young pitchers. The overhand technique ensures maximum control and puts less strain on young arms.

WINDUP:
The pitching motion begins with the windup. Keeping the front part of the ball side foot in contact with the plate side of the pitching rubber, the pitcher shifts the weight to the back leg and takes a backward step.

PIVOT:
The pivot is the most essential part of the pitching motion. During the pivot, the pitcher keeps the weight balanced and eyes towards the target . The pitcher pivots on the ball of the front (ball side) foot to turn it parallel to the rubber. At this point, the pitcher shifts the weight forward onto the pivot foot and lifts the opposite leg into the air.

STRIDE:
From the pivot and leg lift, the pitcher must drive the back foot off the rubber and stride toward the plate with the leg kick. The length of the stride depends on the height of the pitcher and what feels most comfortable. Too long a stride makes the ball go high; too short a stride makes the ball go low. Have your pitchers experiment to find what works best .

During the striding motion, the stride or the glove side foot remains closed (the stride foot points towards third base for a right handed pitcher ). The moment before the foot lands, it opens and points towards the plate. When the foot opens, the hips open, which brings the upper body through

The toe and heel of the striding foot should land simultaneously (although the ball of the foot takes most of the shock), lands in the same spot with each pitch and land softly to avoid any jarring in the delivery . The front knee bends so it can absorb the impact of landing with full weight on the front foot. Keeping the knee straight causes undue stress and strain on the front leg.

FOLLOW-THROUGH:
A good follow-through is critical for speed, control, and proper fielding position. As the pitcher releases the ball, the wrist snaps after coming over the top. The arm snaps across the body, and, ideally, the pivot,(ball side) foot swings around to a position that squares the pitcher up to the plate. The pitcher's eyes must be on the target in preparation to field any balls hit back to the mound

Advanced pitchers can be concerned with the location of their pitches (for example, outside corner). Young pitchers should simply focus on getting the ball across the plate, in the strike zone. Here are some key points to emphasize with young pitchers:
Make sure the catcher is in the crouching position, providing a target (mitt) at all times.
Use the legs, not the arm, to shift the weight toward the plate. 
Be relaxed and in control throughout the pitching motion.
Keep your eyes on the target throughout the pitching motion. Don't overthrow.
Follow through and be ready to field at the end of the motion.
Make the first pitch a strike every time to get ahead of the batter.
 

 

 

 

 

 BALANCE BEAM DRILL
Make sure pitchers are wearing turf or tennis shoes rather than spikes. Have them go through wind up, and stretch, while standing on a 4x4 piece of wood. This will force them to keep their balance throughout their motion. Helps with keeping the weight back, and allows the arm to not fall behind the rest of the motion.

 

 

 

 

 

 

CLOTH SLAP DRILL
This drill is for pitchers to help develop snap of wrist, delivery of ball out front of body, follow through and defensive position once the pitch is delivered.

Cut old bed sheet (or similar material) into pieces 18" by 5". Fold long side a few times until cloth is 1" by 18". Form 2 lines with one line down on one knee, resting "glove side" elbow on other knee and hold arm out (the one resting on knee) parallel to ground (with glove on) no higher than 18" above ground. Players standing hold out throwing hand (palm up) draping folded cloth over middle finger letting hang down evenly on each side of middle finger. Loosely holding cloth in fist, have pitcher go through normal windup with the delivery being slapping partner's glove with cloth. Check for proper motion, balance and defensive position

 

CONTROL DRILL
Pitchers and catchers stand at regulation distance from each other. The catcher stands behind home plate, and a batter stands in the batter's box. The batter should alternate between a left and right-handed batting stance after every five pitches, but not take any swings. The catcher calls balls and strikes. Have the batter wear a helmet in this practice situation. This game like drill will help your pitchers develop a consistent pitching motion, get a good feel for the strike zone, and get use to pitching with a player in the batter's box.

HAND OFF DRILL
Have the player stand the normal pitching distance from a catcher, with his non-throwing shoulder to the catcher. A person should stand behind the pitcher so that his shoulder brushes the back of the pitcher's shoulder. The pitcher must kick straight up and stay there for a count of 2 and then he has to reach back while in the middle of his kick, and take a ball out of the hand of the person behind him.

This will keep the pitcher from 'slinging' the ball and hurting his elbow, improves his balance point during his windup, and it keeps his hand on top of the ball during his windup. The drill will give him better snap on the ball and reduce side-arming.

SIT AND HIT THE BULLS EYE DRILL
Two pitchers sit, with legs crossed, about 20-30 feet from each other. The receiver puts his glove in front of his face as the target. The thrower must hit the target without the ball bouncing, and with minimal rocking motion.

This will require the elbow above the shoulder, and a good rotation of the shoulders to just get it there, thus teaching good technique.

STEPPING ON THE LINE DRILL
I have read with some interest the other coaches' input on pitching. My concern in teaching players to pitch is eliminating elements in their throwing motion which puts unnecessary stress on the elbow or shoulder.

What I emphasize to my pitchers is that the arm should be straight or almost straight when the arm is even with the body. If the elbow is bent then, the player cannot get it fully extended before release. A straight arm provides a longer arc for the ball and will generate more velocity with less effort than a bent elbow. Having players get down on one knee, kneeling with the "push" leg down and the "plant" leg up and in front of them, extend their throwing arm straight out from their body in its natural throwing angle to the body and then have them throw the ball to a partner by taking the ball back about 6 inches and then throwing, I ask them to exaggerate their follow through and finish with their arm down and out side their front knee.

This drill also allows me to work them on their wrist cock and snap at I work a drill to keep the hips and shoulders closed during wind-up. It is called "stepping on the line.", I draw a line perpendicular to the pitching rubber toward home plate from each corner of the rubber and the center of the rubber. The pitcher executes his wind up and throws to home plate, the goal is to step on the line extending out from the pitcher. This keeps the pitchers hips and shoulders from opening early and taking velocity and accuracy from the pitch.
 

TARP DRILL
Tie a large piece of tarp on a section of the backstop. Place a target on the tarp (outline a strike zone) in paint or tape. Place a home plate in front of the strike zone. From two-thirds or regulation distance, a pitcher throws pitches at the strike zone on the tarp. After throwing 20 balls, they collect the balls and start over. Have the pitchers deliver half of the pitches form the stretch.

As your pitchers' control improves, divide the strike zone into sections and challenge them to deliver their pitches to the different sections. Pitchers can also work on their pick-off moves into the tarp

THE BALANCE DRILL
Can be done either from the windup or the stretch, from the full distance to the plate. The idea is to have the pitcher hit his apex in the leg kick, and then stop and hold his balance for a few seconds (time varies with each different pitch), then finish the delivery. If he loses balance, he does not throw the ball. If he holds his balance well, all his body weight will be able to go towards the plate, and he will also have a smooth delivery as well.

This is a major factor in improving control problems.

THE GOALPOST DRILL
The pitcher stands in front of the mound, with his feet spread wider than the shoulders, and weight on the back foot. Before he throws, he raises both arms up, looking like a goalpost from the side. As he throws, he pushes off with the back leg.

This teaches pitching with the lower body, and keeping the elbows up.

THE PLATE DRILL
We have used this very old and simple drill to get the young pitcher to deliver more consistently controlled pitches.

Find the spot that you want to get the pitcher's lead foot in on each throw. Nail a cheap (thin) paper plate to the ground in this spot.

As the pitcher becomes comfortable hitting this target you can make a "box" from very thin strips of wood. "no more than 1 inch deep" Be sure that the box is a little bigger than the pitcher's foot. Use this in the same way as the plate.

THE WALL DRILL
A good pitching drill that I have our pitchers do is called the wall drill.

We have our kids line up about a foot or so from a wall with their body perpendicular and their throwing arm closest to the wall. We make them deliver the ball to a catcher 40 or so feet away. The intent of the drill is to make sure that the pitcher isn't getting long in the back. If he is, then he will hit the wall with his throwing arm. Some coaches think that the use of this drill makes the kid short arm the ball, but our kids have full extension towards the ground, not straight back.

WEIGHT BACK DRILL
To alleviate "rushing the lower body" and develop a good rhythm and pace.

From the wind-up position have the pitcher rock, turn and raise his leg to the balance position. But instead of either stopping or going on to pitch, he now lowers that leg to the ground next to and immediately behind the pivot foot. He should now be standing facing either 3b (rh) or 1b (lh), in good balance before beginning. Now he simply reraises the non-pivot foot and pitches. This simple drill keeps the weight back while in the wind-up. Once the pitcher gets used to it, he can develop a nice natural flow, rock ,turn, raise, drop, raise and pitch. Then alternate the drill every other pitch. Pitchers who are comfortable with it can even do it between innings for a pitch or two just to reinforce their proper piece and keep from rushing.

DEFENSIVE SITUATIONS TIPS & DRILLS

DRILLS
 

Hitting and Defensive Rounds Drill
    Drill that works your hitters, baserunners, and defensive players in a game-like situation

SITUATIONS

First and Third Rundown Situation
    Play that can catch the runner at first in a rundown when there are runners on first and third

Runners on first and third Situation
    Play that prevents a third base runner from scoring

HITTING AND DEFENSIVE ROUNDS DRILL
Want a drill that works your hitters, baserunners, and defensive players in a game-like situation with maximum efficiency? "Rounds" accomplishes all of these things.

Align a defense on the field. A coach pitches, or better yet, a pitching machine. 3-4 players are the hitting/base running group. Three to Five rounds per group is ideal. A sample would be: Round 1 - runner on first hit and run. Round 2 - Runner on first sac bunt. Round 3 - Runner on second with 2 outs. Round 4 - Runners on first and second hit away. Round 5 - Runner on third squeeze. Hitters start with an 0-1 count always. This entire drill is done at GAME SPEED! Every pitch is a game-like situation. The hitting/base running group has tasks to accomplish on each pitch, and the defense must react accordingly to each hit ball and situation. >Drill Notes: The hitting/base running group follows the same order. If the round called for runner on first sac bunt, players 1 and 2 would be at first, 3 and 4 at the plate. After 3 bunts and 1 runs, 2 would be the next runner and 4 would be the next hitter. After the hitting/base running group finishes their rounds, they rotate into defense and a new group replaces them. You might have to play kids out of position once-in-awhile to make it work, but that's fine. Remember - make this as game-like as possible.

FIRST AND THIRD RUNDOWN SITUATION
With runners on first and third there is always the possibility of the runner at first attempting to get caught in a rundown. This should be one of the easiest defensive plays in the game if run correctly.

Communication is key. The pitcher must be alerted as soon as the runner takes off towards second. The pitcher must keep his eye on the runner at third as he steps off the rubber. This action will make the runner on third commit to home or stay at third. If the runner at third commits to home the play is there, if not he turns directly to second base where the second baseman has sprinted to the line between first and second close to but not at the bag. The pitcher throws to the second baseman with no hesitation. This action makes the runner at third make a split-second decision whether to stay or go. It also gives the ball to a fielder who can see the entire play in front of him, both runners, instead of the pitcher having his back to the third base runner. The second baseman now need only tag the runner coming from first, or run him back to first while watching the runner at third.

This defensive scheme puts all the decision making on the runner at third, and forces him to make a split second decision to go or stay. However, this play relies heavily on communication and quick, fluid execution. There should be no hesitation on the part of the pitcher, its step-off looking at third making the runner commit, turn and throw to the second baseman.

 

RUNNERS ON FIRST AND THIRD SITUATION
I think some of the most important situational conditions occur when the offense has runners on first and third. In that situation, the defense has some options which it can defend their position. One such option is a play that I will discuss in some detail...and it may be familiar to a lot of coaches. For you new ones...you can have a slight advantage.

Situation: The other team has runners on first and third and you have less then two outs. The runner on first is attempting to steal second base...hence trying to draw a throw to that base from the catcher after the pitch is delivered in order for the runner at third to have a chance at scoring.

Play: Your catcher must relay the signal of which play is on to the rest of the infield...and the pitcher, or you can yell out a signal from the bench. You can designate what that may be. This particular play consists of the second baseman sprinting hard to the middle of the infield about 10 feet in front of the bag at second, while the short stop is covering. The catcher must throw through the second baseman to try to throw out the runner or the second baseman can cut the throw from the catcher if he thinks that the runner at third is going to break towards home. The key element is communication between the shortstop and the second baseman. The shortstop needs to know whether or not the throw is going to go through to him or be cut off by the second baseman. One way to create that communication is for the SS to yell cut if he thinks he can't get the stealing base runner or he can see the runner at third cheating. If the SS does not say anything, then the second baseman lets the throw go through. The communication here is crucial...the whole infield needs to know what it is. There are other ways that communication can be accomplished...this is just one method. All in all, the whole key is to prevent the runner from third to score. You may have to sacrifice a stolen base...and if you are lucky you may even get an out and not have the runner score...or get the runner at third in a run down.

OFFENSIVE SITUATIONS TIPS & DRILLS

DRILLS
 

Multi-Phase Drill
    Drill to practice plays in different offensive situations
 

SITUATIONS
Suicide Squeeze Situation
    Make the defense execute and pick up some points in a close game


TIPS
Confessions of a Third Base Coach Tip  
    A guidebook for coaching 3rd base

MULTI-PHASE DRILL
First Round
1. Begin round with runner on 1st base.
2. Have defensive players at each position.
3. Runner on 1st base will take his best lead.
4. Pitcher will stretch and play on runner at 1st base one time, then he will throw to the 1st hitter.
5. The first hitter will bunt one, (the runner on 1st base will advance to 2nd base on the bunt and then will go to defensive position or end of hitting line). On hit two, the batter will run the second hit out and stay there. The pitcher will play on the runner one time and throw to the second hitter in round one. This procedure should be followed through all of the hitters.

Second Round
1. Begin round one with runner on 2nd base.
2. Pitcher will play on runner one time, using middle infielders.
3. Hitter will bunt two, (sacrifice runner to 3rd and then squeeze the runner home). Hit two, run the second hit out to 2nd base and stay there. Continue this procedure through all hitters in second round.

Third Round
1. Begin round with runner on 1st base.
2. The runner on 1st base breaks on the first pitch to the hitter and goes all the way to 3rd base.
3. The hitters try to take the first pitch to right field. If they execute the hit and run successfully, they should be rewarded with an extra hit. After they hit two or three, they run out the last hit and stay and 1st base.

SUICIDE SQUEEZE SITUATION
Obviously if you score more runs than the other team at the end of the game...you can notch another Win on the tally. So what we need to do as coaches is have some plays that make things happen...we need to make the defense execute. This play has won many close games and can be a real demoralizer for the opposition. You may think it's too difficult a play, or you may believe that it is not for your age group but if you practice, it can work all the way from 8-9 yr. olds to high school kids.

Situation: You have a runner  on second and third or just on third base with less than two outs and a close game. Normally Squeeze plays are attempted in the late innings.

Play: As a coach, you must not give away this play to the opposition by having conversations with the batter and the runner on third. The element of surprise is critical. Many people do not like to squeeze on the first pitch, because that is when the defense is most prepared and quite often it is a good idea to wait until the pitcher throws a strike to your batter...for all you know the pitcher may walk your batter. You probably have a good idea of the pitcher's control by this point in the game and that will probably dictate your actions.

When the pitcher commits his motion to the plate, the runner at third is breaks  for home. If the pitcher is in the wind up, then the runner breaks when the correct foot goes back off the rubber (rocker step) and commits to home. The batter is instructed to Bunt the ball, NO MATTER WHERE IT IS PITCHED. Since the runner is breaking already, any bunt in fair territory will likely score the runner. It is important that your batter knows that many pitchers have been taught to throw at the batter in a suicide squeeze situation. The reason for that is two fold. First, many batters will jump out of the way of the pitch making a tag out of the runner quite easy and secondly, because if they do hit the batter the play is ruled a dead play and the runner can not score. You batter must be coached to bunt this pitch even if it is thrown at him. You need to practice this to prepare your batter.

 

CONFESSIONS OF A THIRD BASE COACH
This was written by a gentlemen who was a third base coach in Dixie Youth Baseball for many years.

I started out in Tee Ball. Like most parents/coaches I was drafted into coaching because I showed up at the first practice and hung around to watch. I started my son's first game as the first base coach. But even then I had my eye on the third base coach's spot where our team manager was working. I could see that third was the action spot.

The first base coach is responsible for the base runner from the time they hit the ball until they reach first base and until they leave first headed for second. That's all. Until they actually make contact with the ball the batter is the responsibility of the third base coach who is giving the signals. And once they leave first base, whether they are stealing or moving with the next batter's hit, they again become the responsibility of the third base coach.

The first base coach's responsibilities are few. He encourages the runner to run through the base so that the runner does not slow down. He may signal the runner whether to make the turn to go to second or to hold at first. He congratulates the hitter for his hit. He also tells the baserunners when to steal second. There are several other strategic duties of the first base coach. He must notice the depth of the infielders. He tells the runner when there is an infield fly - he can't wait for the umpire to call or signal it. He must be sure the baserunners knows the current number of outs. He needs to know the strength of the catcher and where the catcher normally throws the ball when he is throwing out a runner trying to steal second. He needs to know who takes the throw-down - whether it is the second baseman or the shortstop. He then uses this information to tell the baserunners where best to slide to avoid the tag at second base.

While this may seem a lot to remember it doesn't come close to the duties of the third base coach. Listed below is a preparatory course for future third base coaches. While this is written about youth baseball most of the points apply to softball as well.

Foremost the third base coach must stay focused at all times. I often miss the action on the field because I am focusing on one or two players only. You can't afford to get upset about a call and let it affect your focus. There have been times when I got so upset about an umpire's call that I caused our team to miss a scoring opportunity.

Third Base Coach Responsibility:
Tell each baserunners the number of outs.

Make runners aware of certain situations such as infield fly rule, what to do if the ball is hit to the left side of the infield, etc. It doesn't hurt to remind the baserunners whether or not he has to run when the ball is hit. On plays where there is a possibility of an "Infield Fly" the coach should watch the umpire's hands to see if he signals that "Infield Fly". Most umpires just provide a hand signal. This means that the runners advance at their own risk. The coach should already have made a decision about what to do if the Infield Fly is signaled.

Tell runner as he approaches third "BE SURE TO TAG THIRD" and point at the bag. As runner leaves third heading home the coach should yell out, "BE SURE TO STEP ON HOME PLATE!" This may seem like you are treating the players like children but I have never had a runner fail to tag the home plate when I have called this out.

If it looks like a play could be made at home plate advise the runner to slide and tell them which side of the plate to slide to. >Tell runner as he approaches third from second to:

SLIDE - Hold both hands out wide apart with palms down. All players should slide if there is any possibility of a play on him. >STAND UP - Hold both hands out wide apart with palms up.

GO HOME - Windmill motion with left arm.

Congratulate player on hits, base running, etc.. But - do not touch (i.e. slap hands or "high five") a player unless umpire has declared "Dead Ball" or "Time".

Provide signals to batter. Provide an activator and a validator sign. An activator is a sign which tells the batter that the next sign is the real sign. A validator is a signal from the batter back to the coach which tells the coach that the batter understands the signal. A "thumbs-up" from the batter is a good simple validator. We have our batter tap his helmet to show that he understands the signal. Early in the season you should keep the signs fairly simple. By having an activator sign you can mix up three or four signs well enough that other team can't decipher them in one game. There are several good articles by Brian Priebe on this website about signs. Check out the baseball articles page.

Remind batter of the balls and strikes count - both verbally and with your fingers.

Give your players (ALL YOUR PLAYERS) the opportunity to score. This includes the slower baserunners.

Be cognizant of the third baseman's and shortstop's depth. Know what the shortstop does when the batter bunts. If the third baseman charges a bunt and the shortstop does not cover third then you have an excellent opportunity to steal third. When you get a baserunners on second you should have your batter square around early as if to bunt. When the third baseman charges it leaves the base unguarded and the baserunners can easily steal third. In most cases I give the batter the signal to fake a bunt and pull back with the hope that not only do we get a runner to third but we may also get a ball instead of a strike.

Also watch the catcher and the pitcher closely. How quickly does the catcher return the ball to the pitcher? When the runner on third base fakes an attempt to go home does the catcher "walk" the runner back to third? If he does and then throws the ball to the pitcher there is an excellent opportunity to steal home since no one is covering the plate at that point. The pitcher will have to attempt to run the runner down or throw to the catcher who is also racing towards the plate.

When your runner comes off of third what does the third baseman do? Does he come in behind the runner to cover the bag at third? If so, you should be sure to warn your baserunners so that he doesn't get caught straying too far off the bag. Remind your runner not to turn his back on the pitcher. Often the younger baserunners will turn their back on the pitcher or catcher and walk back to the base leaving themselves vulnerable to a quick throw to the third baseman. Remind him that he can dive head first back to the bag.

Do not allow your batter to get upset about a called strike that he disagrees with the umpire. Some players can become so upset with a call that they give up and are easily struck out on the next pitch. It is your job to notice a player that is upset and to request a time-out if needed to settle him down. Its important that you take the time to remind the player that no matter what the outcome this is still a little boys game. I try to know my players well enough to know what will make them laugh or at least what will break the tension in their mind. A quick joke told with your arm around a player can make all the difference while reminding a player to only swing at strikes will do little good.

If there is a runner on second and third you need to remind the runner on second that the runner on third is his key. If that runner advances only then can the runner on second advance.

There is an old (and very wise) baseball theory that you should never make the first or last out of an inning at third base. What this means is to not make the out by aggressive base running. With no outs you should always hold the runner at second base if there is any possibility of a play being made at third.

When the baserunners is on third with less than two outs be sure he understands that if the hit is a fly ball to the outfield he should stay on third and go home as soon as the ball is caught rather than risk having to retreat to third to tag up and then go home. In almost all cases there is plenty of time to run home as soon as the ball is touched. Do not worry about whether it was caught or dropped. There should be no question in the umpire's mind that the runner was on base when the ball was first touched. The baserunners should stay on third and focus his attention on home plate and await the third base coach's shout of "GO".

Be sure that the base runner understands what you are communicating to him with your signals or words. If there is any doubt be sure that he understands that it is his responsibility to ask you again or to request time out.

Do not admonish a player for making a base running mistake during a game. Wait until the next practice to explain the circumstances and what you were trying to accomplish.

Remember that you want your team to be aggressive (but smart) when running the bases. One of the results of aggressive base running is a higher chance of being put out. You (and your team and parents) must be comfortable with the fact that aggressive base running will result in some outs and must be willing to exchange those outs for the possibility of a larger amount of runs (a big inning which in most cases will decide a game). There are times when you do all the right things and play all the correct odds but still get put out. That does not make the play any less correct. Be sure that all the players and coaches understand that. There should never be any criticism (even well-meaning) if a player and/or coach work within the framework that they establish in practice - no matter what the result. You do not want that same player worrying about whether he will be yelled at or criticized next time he is in the same situation. That little bit of doubt could slow a player down! ... enough to cost a run or the game.

From the start of our season we use visualization techniques to put the players in the situations where they want to be the player in the spotlight in critical situations. As the slogan on a popular baseball tee-shirt says - Bottom of the ninth, down by three runs, two outs, bases loaded, full count - No Fear! Teach your players to want that pressure and they won't disappoint you.

Obviously these are only guidelines. Each player is different. I have had some players who are baseball smart at the age of six - they are aggressive and always have the green light. They are the players that you purposely hold up at third base with runners behind them even when there is a good chance that they could score from second base because they make the pitcher nervous - so nervous that he might give up an easy walk, a wild pitch or a hit that will win the game for your team. Other players need more guidance.

But at all times the guidance should have the goal of making each player make more decisions on his own as the season progresses. As players become more experienced you should become less vocal . The communication becomes less verbal and more through signals and most importantly - the player's own baseball knowledge