Proper Base running puts pressure on opposing teams, and maximizes your chances to score
First Base
During practice – have kids lay down fully stretched out, with the tip of their fingers touching the back corner of bag. Mark where their feet are. This is their minimum lead off first. Have them practice and know exactly how many steps or shuffles it takes to get to this minimum lead point (2 and a half shuffles, etc)
Then have them extend the lead one full step towards second – this is their max lead.
On every throw over, they must dive back to bag – and practice having them dive – arms extended (do not try and break their fall – or their hands and fingers can get caught underneath them and injured.)
1) Wait until pitcher engages the rubber
2) Take one quick step back – then quickly get to minimum lead
3) If given steal sign - try to cheat out a little more, prepared to dive back
4) Have runner focus on the pitchers heel, while listening to coach
5) Once pitcher has committed to go home – take off
6) Do not look at catcher, eyes focused ahead (where is 2B/SS positioning to take the throw, can slide to inside or outside if necessary)
Second Base
Much Different than first – we are not going to quickly take our lead, two steps off is fine, then listen for coaches who will tell you more or less.
1) Be aware of middle infielders, and wait until pitcher has engaged the rubber
2) Take one full step back – then 2/3 steps off base toward third.
3) Eyes focused on pitcher, ears focused on coaches
4) We are NEVER stationary – moving in and out slightly – feet always moving
5) Once pitcher commits to home, go to secondary position – which will be between 1/3 and ½ of the way to 3B.
6) If catcher drops to block ball in dirt, and you have an extended secondary lead, take off for 3B.
Third Base
Again much different than First base, we don’t need a big lead, but we are aggressive on our secondary.
1) Wait until pitcher engages the rubber
2) Take one step back into FOUL territory, and two steps towards home
3) We hold this position – but feet are moving up and down slowly, on toes, ready to go in either direction quickly.
4) If pickoff throw – dive back to outside corner of bag
5) Once pitcher has committed to home – we begin our secondary lead – which will extend about 1/3 of the way down, momentum peaking as pitch crosses home plate.
6) If pitch is caught cleanly – turn and quickly return to bag – but in FAIR territory. (down the line in Foul territory, return in Fair territory).
7) If ball is hit – ground ball – break for home. Linedrive or Flyball– get back
8) If pitch gets past catcher – be prepared and in position to break for home.