SHOSHONE INDIANS

BASEBALL PLAYBOOK
 CONTENTS
PHILOSOPHY (PAGE 3)

THE HABIT OF WINNING (PAGE 4)

THE CHAMP (PAGE 5)

THREE KINDS OF ATHLETES (PAGE 6)

POSITION CHARACTERISTICS & GOALS (PAGES 7-12)

INFIELD POSITIONING (PAGES 13-15)

OUTFIELD POSITIONING (PAGE 16)

FLYBALL COVERAGE & PRIORITIES (PAGES 17-8)

PITCHER FIELDING RESPONSIBILITIES (PAGE 19)

CUTOFF/RELAY RESPONSIBILITIES (PAGES 20-26)

BUNT DEFENSES (PAGES 27-31)

1ST & 3RD DEFENSES (PAGES 32-36)

COMMUNICATION (PAGES 37-39)

WHERE IS THE PLAY RULES (PAGE 40)

OFFENSIVE SIGNS (PAGES 41-42)

BUNT DEFENSIVE SIGNS (PAGE 43)

1ST & 3RD DEFENSIVE SIGNS (PAGE 44)

PITCH CALLING SIGNS (PAGES 45-47)

PITCHING APPROACH (PAGES 48-50)

HITTING APPROACH (PAGES 51-56)

HITTING DRILLS (PAGES 57-60)

SEVEN SITUATION STATIONS FOR HITTERS PREPARATION (PAGES 61-62)

DEFENSIVE APPROACH (PAGE 63)

FUNDAMENTALS OF INFIELD PLAY (PAGE 64)

FIELDING GROUND BALLS PROGRESSION (PAGE 65)

4 TYPES OF GROUND BALLS (PAGES 66-67)

2
 RUN DOWNS (PAGES 68-69)

BASE RUNNING APPROACH (PAGES 70-75)

FIRST BASE RUNNER/LEFT HANDED PITCHER SITUATION (PAGES 76-77)

1ST BASE RUNNER STEALING KEYS AGAINST RIGHT HANDED PITCHER (PGS 78-79)

MISCELLANOUS BASE RUNNING (PAGE 80)

SECOND BASE RUNNER (PAGE 81)

BASE RUNNER ON THIRD (PAGE 82)

DOUBLE STEAL OFFENSE (PAGES 83-84)

PRACTICE ORGANIZATION (PAGE 85-86)

Indian Baseball

The responsibilities of an athlete today are demanding and unending.

To his team, to his school, and to his community, the athlete has
obligations that he cannot sidestep or neglect. This handbook is
designed to help you meet YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES.

Philosophy
Whether it involves coaches, players or managers, the Indian Baseball
Program Centers Around One Basic Concept: each of us must do the
best we are capable of doing. No matter what your position is on
the team, you must be eager to become the very best that you are
capable of becoming. Anything less than that is defeat. One of the

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greatest feelings in life is the self-satisfaction of knowing you have
done your best.

Baseball, just like life, is just a series of habits. It is just as easy to

develop habits that will lead to success as it is to develop habits
resulting in failure. It takes just one thing: the mental attitude
referred to as desire. Desire to excel is not something you either
automatically have or don't have. It can be developed and it can be
lost. It's your responsibility to maintain this mental quality for the
remainder of your life.

Responsibility to Yourself
The most important of these responsibilities is to broaden yourself
and develop strength of character. You owe it to yourself to get
the greatest possible good from your high school experiences. Your
studies, your participation in sports, as well as other extra-curricular
activities, all prepare you for your adult life.

The Habit of Winning

Winning is not a sometime thing. You don't win once in a

while. You don't do things right once in a while. You do
them right all the time. Winning is a habit.
Unfortunately, so is losing.

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Every time you go out to play or practice, you have to play
with your heart. With every fiber of your body. If you're
lucky enough to find a person with a lot of headiness and a
lot of heart, he is never going to come off the field.

It is reality of life that athletes are competitive and the

most competitive games draw the most competitive
athletes. This is why they're there-to compete. There has
never been an athlete worth his salt who in the long run,
deep down in his heart, did not appreciate the grind and
the discipline. There is something in good athletes that
really yearns for and needs discipline.

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 The Champ

C Conditioned for the task supreme;

Confident in coach and team;

Courageous when the going's rough,

Champions never say 'enough'.

H Heart, to meet the game's bad breaks;

Heads, to know just what it takes

Hands, that work through thick and thin

Honest, Champions play to win

A Ambitious to develop now

Abilities that God endows,

Aiming high to meet the test

A Champion wants to be the best

M Marked and watched where he goes;

Model traits he has to show.

Manliness, if in defeat,

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 Modest in the victor's seat.

P Practice, practice, ever on the move,

Plugging daily to improve.

Perfection? That he'll never see,

Peerless champs just try to be.

Three Kinds of Athletes

On all squads there are three kinds of athletes. FIRST, there is the
athlete who is help. He is the one who takes a keen interest in the
whole concern. He feels that he is part of the set-up, and takes
pride in it. Every now and then he suggests some improvement.
Often he does more than he is expected to do. When he is given a
job to do, he does not enlarge on the difficulties or the responsibility
of it. He just pitches in and does it.

SECONDLY, there is the athlete who is a habit. He is a good

worker. He takes an interest, more or less, in his job, but seldom
concerns himself in the least about the whole concern. He has
learned to do one thing, and does it reasonably well. His work is all
a matter of habit. He hates to be shifted from one job to another.
He lacks drive. He is a good person, but he has nailed himself down

7
to a routine, and sees anything outside that routine as a nuisance
rather than opportunity.

The THIRD type is the athlete who is a hindrance. He is the one

who dislikes his job. He does not want to work, and he almost feels
a grievance against anyone who gives him a chance to better his lot.
He never has a good word for anyone or anything. He is strong on
objecting, great on refusing, marvelous on criticizing, but weak on
doing. He is against everything that spells effort. He can't take it.
He never takes correction in good spirit; instead, he walks off with a
growl. He is an athlete who can never be promoted or advanced.
He is a hindrance. He can hardly wait for a season in one sport to
be over so he can go on to the next and start the same routine
over again.

WHICH ARE YOU?

Position Characteristics and Goals

PITCHERS
1. Three quarter arm delivery
2. Location, velocity, movement
3. Ability to upset hitters' timing
4. Body Mechanics - control determined by good mechanics-fielding
position.
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5. Know the situation
6. Poise
7. Ability to hold runners on:
1st Base
2nd Base
3rd Base
8. Stances of hitters:
Closed; weakness -- inside part of plate
Open; weakness -- outside part of plate
Deep in box; weakness -- low and away
Crouch; weakness -- high pitches

Types of Pitches:
1. Fastball
Gripped across the seams; tends to rise
Gripped with the seams; tends to sink
2. Curveball
3. Slider
Grip the ball off center to the outside
4. Change Up
Circle-change, forkball, split finger, knuckleball

9
 Position Characteristics and Goals (2)

Pitching Goals
1. I know the fundamentals of pitching
2. I have a good pickoff move to each base
3. I am aggressive - I attack the hitters
4. I consistently get ahead of hitters - good control.
5. I am mentally tough, I don't get shook up or upset, I am poised
on the mound.
6. I throw my fastball with two different grips.
7. I have the confidence to throw my curve when behind in the
count.
8. I can make the play at first on grounders to the right side.
9. I am alert and back up the appropriate base on all plays.

CATCHERS
1. Soft hands; intelligent; strong arm
2. Must keep ball in front
3. Take charge kind of person
4. Foot work in throwing out runner
5. Calling a game, knowing the situation and batter
6. Working umpires sticking the pitch

Catcher Goals
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I know the fundamentals of catching

1. I take charge, am a leader on the field

2. I know each pitcher's best pitch.
3. I can block ANY pitch in the dirt & keep it in front of me
4. I am not afraid to pick a runner off at any base
5. I am confident on pop-ups and react quickly to the angle the ball
comes off the plate
6. I consistently make quick and accurate throws to second base on
stealing players.

Position Characteristics and Goals (3)

FIRST BASEMAN
1. Good hands and mobility -- foot work around the bag
2. Be able to handle balls in the dirt
3. Left handed vs. right handed
4. Holding runners on - situation vs. position

First Baseman Goals

I know the fundamentals of fielding my position

1. I can make the play in the hole between first and second then
make the throw to the pitcher
2. I know when to hold runners and when to play behind them
3. I aggressively call for popups between home and first base

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4. I know the pick-off signals from the pitcher and catcher and
stay alert enough to see it when given.
5. I consistently make accurate throws
6. I want to expect the ball to be hit to me on every pitch

SECOND BASEMAN
1. Quick feet; accurate arm; good range
2. Types of Pivots:
Straddle and drag - slowest but safest
Back off
Cross Bag
Jump pivot - fast but risky
3. Must be able to turn the double play

Position Characteristics and Goals (4)

Second Base Goals

1. I know the fundamentals of fielding my position
2. I can cut off ground balls up the middle or in the hole between
first and second
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3. I know how to make the double play pivot
4. I know my relay assignments
5. I know how to take the throw for tag plays at second base
6. I know what to do in all 1st and 3rd double steal situations
7. I am always alert and don't get surprised by the hitter or runner
8. I know the pick offs at 2nd and 1st base
9. I consistently make accurate throws
10. I can make the catch on pop-ups down the right field line
11. I want and expect the ball to be hit to me on every pitch

THIRD BASEMAN
1. Good reflexes; strong arm
2. Must be able to handle the slow roller

Third Baseman Goals

1. I know the fundamentals of fielding my position
2. I consistently make accurate throws
3. I can make the play on slow rollers hit between 3rd and SS or in
front of me
4. I am able to field bunts and make quick and accurate throws
5. I aggressively call for pop-ups between home and 3rd base
6. I want and expect the ball to be hit in my direction on every
pitch

Position Characteristics and Goals (5)

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 SHORTSTOP

1. Sure hands - no chance on bobbled balls

2. Strongest arm on infield
3. Great Range - very athletic
4. Must be able to make the play in the hole

ShortStop Goals
1. I know the fundamentals of fielding my position
2. I consistently make accurate throws
3. I can make the play on balls hit up the middle and in the
hole between SS & 3B
4. I can make the play in 1st & 3rd double steal situations
5. I know my relay assignments
6. I know how to make the double play pivot
7. I can make the catch on pop-ups hit down the 3rd base line
8. I want and expect the ball to be hit in my direction on
every pitch

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 Position Characteristics and Goals (6)

OUTFIELDERS
1. Left Fielder - Good defensive player
Foul ground ball coverage
Average arm
Must be able to charge ground ball single and keep
runner on second from scoring.

2. Center Fielder - Strong defensive player with best range

Strong arm
Take charge kind of guy
Must be able to cut ball off in gaps

3. Right Fielder - Good defensive player

Strongest arm
Hold runner to single on ball hit in the corner

Outfielder Goals
1. I know the fundamentals of fielding my position
2. I consistently make strong, accurate throws
3. I take an aggressive approach to every fly ball hit to my field
4. I communicate well with other outfielders and infielders
5. I know how to play each hitter

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6. I get a good "jump" on the ball
7. I back up the appropriate base on throws on the infield
8. I know how to play the fence
9. I back up other outfielders on balls hit to them
10. I want and expect the ball to be hit in my direction on every
pitch

INFIELD POSITIONING (1)

CF

LF RF

Normal Depth Position

SS 2B

10 7 10
1st base- 7 x 8-10 steps
7
3B 1B
8-10 8-10 2nd base-7 x 10 steps
7 P 7

Shortstop- 7 x 10 steps

3rd base- 7 x 8-10 steps

Vs RH Pull Hitter

Shade 2 step right

Vs LH Pull Hitter

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 Shade 2 step left
CF
LF RF

SS 2B
Corners -In Position

1st base- 7 at Base Line

P
2nd base- Normal
3B 1B
7
7 Shortstop- Normal

3rd base- 7 at Base Line

C

INFIELD POSITIONING (2)

CF

LF RF

Double Play Depth

SS 2B

5 4 5
1st base- 7 x 4 steps
4
3B 1B
4 4 2nd base-4 x 5 steps
7 P 7

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 Shortstop- 4 x 5 steps

3rd base- 7 x 4 steps

CF
LF RF

No Doubles Position
SS 2B
10
7
7
10 1st base- 2 x 10 steps
10

3B 2 P 1B 2nd base- 7 x 10 steps

10

2
Shortstop- 7 x 10 steps

3rd base- 2 x 10 steps

C

INFIELD POSITIONING (3)

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 CF
LF RF

Infield-In Position

1st base- 7 at Base Line

SS 2B

2nd base- Normal creep in

7 7
P

7
3B 1B
7
when pitcher comes set

Shortstop- Normal creep in

C when pitcher comes set

3rd base- 7 at Base Line

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 OUTFIELD POSITIONING

CF 30 feet

LF 10 steps 10 steps RF 60 feet

Straight up Position
SS 2B
CF- on with 2b and Home
3B 1B
LF- 10 steps off line
P
between 2b and 1b

RF- 10 steps off line between

2b and 3b

10 steps = 30 feet

LF/RF- 60 feet to foul line

Shade

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 Means 2-3 steps either direction
based on situation

OUTFIELD COVERAGE RESPONSIBILITIES

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22
POPUP AND FLYBALL PRIORITIES

1. Centerfield

2. Leftfield/Rightfield

3. Shortstop

4. 2nd Base

5. 3rd/1st Base

6. Catcher

7. Pitcher

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PITCHER FIELDING RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Aggressively field ground balls up middle or in

front of plate (bunts).

2. Move toward pop-ups, but yield to all other

infielders.

3. Talk to 2nd Baseman and Shortstop who will

take throw on force at second or double play.

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 4. Cover 1st Base on ALL groundballs to the right

side of infield.

5. Communicate with 1st Baseman!!!!!!

6. Back up 3rd Baseman and Home on all cut-off

plays to 3rd base and Home.

7. On routine ground balls, STEP AND THROW.

CUTOFF/RELAY RESPONSIBILITIES (1)

CF
LF

RF

SS 2B
SITUATION

25
 3B 1B
No Runner or Runner on
P
3B
Batter- Hits Single

C
CF
LF
RF

SS 2B

3B 1B
P

CF
LF C

RF

SS 2B

3B 1B
P

KEY POINTS
C
Outfielder throws to 2nd base- On a
line, through the cut.
Pitcher & Outfielders back up 2nd
base.

2B/SS must communicate alignment

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 CUTOFF/RELAY RESPONSIBILITIES (2)

CF
LF

RF

SS 2B
SITUATION

3B 1B
Runner on First
P
Batter- Hits Single

C
CF
LF
RF

SS 2B

3B 1B
P

CF
LF RF C

SS 2B

3B 1B
P

KEY POINTS
C
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 Shortstop is cutoff on all singles with
plays at 3rd.
2nd Baseman covers 2nd on all singles
with plays at 3rd.

Pitcher always backs up 3rd base.

CUTOFF/RELAY RESPONSIBILITIES (3)

CF
LF

RF

SS 2B
SITUATION

3B 1B
Runner on 2B
P
Batter- Hits Single

CF
LF
RF

SS 2B

3B 1B
P

28

C
 CF
LF

RF

SS 2B

3B 1B
P
KEY POINTS

3rd baseman is cutoff for all balls to

C
Shortstops right.

Shortstop covers third on ball to his

right.

1st baseman is cutoff for all balls to

Shortstops left.

3rd baseman and 1st baseman must

communicate

CUTOFF/RELAY RESPONSIBILITIES (4)

CF
LF

RF

SS 2B
SITUATION

29
 3B
1B
Runner on 1st & 2nd or
P
bases are loaded.
Batter- Hits Single

CF
C
LF
RF

SS 2B

3B 1B
P

CF C
LF

RF

SS 2B

3B 1B
P
KEY POINTS

Set up two cutoff paths, to home

C
and to third.
On Balls to Shortstops right, 3rd
baseman is cutoff to home and
shortstop covers third.
On balls to Shortstops left 1st
baseman is cutoff home and
Shortstop is cut-off to third.

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 Pitcher plays between third and
home.

CUTOFF/RELAY RESPONSIBILITIES (5)

CF
LF

RF

SS 2B
SITUATION

No Runner or Runner on 3B
3B 1B
P
Batter- Hits sure Double

C
CF
LF
RF

SS 2B

3B 1B
P

CF
LF C

RF

SS 2B

3B 1B
P

C
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 KEY POINTS

Double Cut-off
2nd and Shortstop must
communicate!!!
1st Baseman follows runner to 2nd.
Pitcher backs up third.

CUTOFF/RELAY RESPONSIBILITIES (6)

CF
LF

RF

SS 2B
SITUATION

Runner on 1st .
3B 1B

Batter- Hits sure Double

P

C
CF
LF
RF

SS 2B

3B 1B
32
P

C
 CF
LF

RF

SS 2B

3B 1B
P

KEY POINTS
C
Double Cut-off
2nd and Shortstop must
communicate!!!
1st Baseman is always cut-off to
home.
Off side outfielder must cover 2nd
base.
Pitcher backs up home.

CUTOFF/RELAY RESPONSIBILITIES (7)

CF
LF

RF SITUATION

SS 2B Runner at third.
1B

33
 OR runners on 2nd & 3rd.
3B

P OR runner on 1st & 3rd.

Fly ball out/Tag up Play

C
CF
LF
RF

SS 2B

3B 1B
P

CF
LF C

RF

2B
SS

3B 1B
P

KEY POINTS
C
Set up relays to both home and 3rd.
3rd baseman communicate if runner is
tagging.

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 BUNT DEFENSE PHILOSOPHY

SACRIFICE BUNTS

On sacrifice bunt situations, #1 priority is to get an

out.

Look to get lead runner if you field bunt on 1-2 hard

hops, of if catcher fields bunt within 10 feet of home

plate.

Otherwise, slow down and make sure to get out at 1st

base.

TRICK PLAYS/PICK OFFS

The goal of these plays is to get a cheap out,

especially on a potentially important run.

Timing and selling the play is critical to success.

Everyone needs to sell the play.

35
 These are trick plays, do not overthrow or hurry

throws.

We cannot let poor execution of these plays result in

runners advancing or scoring.

All pitches on these plays must be pitchouts. Our

defense will be out of position. The batter cannot be

allowed to hit the ball.

BUNT DEFENSE (1)

Straight

2B
SS

3B 1B Situation

P
Could be used in any
Read
Read
situation.
Goal is to get out.
36
 C

Defense 1 (D-1)

2B
SS

Situation

Runner on 1st base

3B
1B

P 1st Baseman stays at 1st

Charge
Hard!!!
base.
3rd baseman must charge
hard.
Pitcher charge to 1st base
C

side.

BUNT DEFENSE (2)

DEFENSE 3 (D-3)

SS
2B Situation
37
 Runner on 2nd base.

3B 1B
3rd baseman stays on 3rd base.
P 1st baseman must charge hard.
Charge 2nd baseman covers 1st base.
Hard!!!

C Pitcher charge to 3rd base side.

CF
Defense 6 (D-6)

Situation
SS must beat
runner to 3rd 2B
SS

Runner at 2nd base.

3B 1B
Fielders break as soon as bunt
is shown.
P Shortstop covers 3rd base.
Charge Charge Corners charge hard!!!
Hard!!! Hard!!!

Goal is to get runner at 3rd.

Centerfield must cover 2nd
C

base.

BUNT DEFENSE (3)

SS holds runner, 2B sneaks in DEFENSE 22 (D-22)

then breaks hard behind runner.
for 3rd base. 38
 SS
2B Situation

Important run at 2nd base.

3B Trick Play
Pickoff play at 2nd base.
1B

P PICKOFF AT 2ND
No pitch
Pitcher timing
pickoff move.

Defense 44 (D-44)
C

Situation

Important run at 1st base.

SS
Trick Play.
2B

Pickoff from catcher to 1st

base.
3B
1B
1st baseman charges hard like
bunt.
P
2nd baseman breaks on pitch to
PICKOFF AT 1ST
get behind runner at 1st.
Pitcher throws pitch out.

39
 Catcher throws to 1st to
C

pickoff runner.

BUNT DEFENSE (4)

CF

DEFENSE 66 (D-66)

2B
SS break early SS

Situation

3B 1B
Squeeze situation.

Pitch Out
Runner at 3rd base.
P

Trick Play
Charge
Charge Hard!!! 3rd baseman charges hard,
Hard!!!
anticipating squeeze.
PICKOFF AT 3RD Shortstop cheats, then breaks on
pitch to 3rd base.
C Catcher throw to shortstop at 3rd
and picks off runner.
PITCHOUT!!!!!
Centerfield must cover 2nd base.

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 1st & Third DEFENSE (1)

1. 2nd base read/cutoff

Shortstop covers 2nd base for tag.

Catcher throws to second

2nd baseman

o 12 feet in front of 2nd base

41
 o Read runner at 3rd base

o Cutoff if runner goes home

o 3rd baseman responsible for communicating

4-4-4

o Let throw go if runner does not go.

Centerfield must aggressively back up throw to

2nd base.

2. Throw through to 2nd

Treat as normal steal of 2nd.

Focus on getting out at 2nd.

Normal 2ndbaseman/Shortstop Coverage.

3. Fake throw to 2nd base, throw to 3rd

Hard pump by Catcher to 2nd base.

Must sell throw fake.

Shortstop & 2nd baseman play the same as

normal steal of second.

42
 1st & Third DEFENSE (2)

4. Shortstop cutoff

2nd baseman covers second.

Shortstop takes 2-3 steps in.

Catcher throws directly to Shortstop.

5. No throw

We will only do this with winning run on 3rd

base.

CATCHER SIGNS

1. 2ND BASEMAN READ- TAP HEAD

2. THROW THROUGH- TAP LEG

3. FAKE THROW, THROW TO 3RD- TAP LEFT SHOULDER

4. SHORTSTOP CUTOFF- TAP CHEST

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5. NO THROW- CROSS ARMS

***SIGNAL WILL BE LAST OF 3 SIGN SEQUENCE***

1st & Third DEFENSE (3)

1- 2ND BASE READ (TAP HEAD)

CF
CF- MUST BACK
UP 1- 2ND BASE READ

2B
SS 2ND Baseman 12 feet in front of 2nd.
If runner at third goes cut throw &
throw home.
If runner does not go, let throw go to
2nd base.
o 2nd Baseman fake catching

3B ball by pounding fist into

glove
3 rd
Baseman
must yell 4-4-4
1B
if runner goes
P

44
 C

1st & Third DEFENSE (4)

3- FAKE THROW, THROW TO 3RD (TAP LEFT

SHOULDER)

3- FAKE THROW, THROW TO 3RD

SS 2B 2B/SS PLAY LIKE STRAIGHT

STEAL OF 2ND

3B
1B

45
 P

Catcher fake to 2nd base

Throw to 3rd base
Must sell pump fake.

1st & Third DEFENSE (5)

4- SHORTSTOP CUTOFF (TAP CHEST)

4- SHORTSTOP CUTOFF

Shortstop steps up 2-3

steps

SS 2B 2ND Baseman covers 2nd

base

46
 3B
1B

P
3rd Baseman
must yell 4-4-4
if runner goes

Catcher throws straight

to Shortstop

Communication

Philosophy
Communication on the field, between players, is essential to
playing advanced baseball.
Elite players over - communicate. It is part of the process of
getting themselves and their teammates prepared for each at-bat
and each pitch.

47
 Coaches put a lot of value on players who are willing to
communicate. It is a key difference between a team player and a
selfish player.
Each team has its own language.

Common Terminology
Runner, Runner - when someone is stealing a base
Ball, ball, ball - when you are calling a ball in the air
Relay, Relay - when you want the cutoff man to catch the ball
and relay to you
Cut - when you want the cutoff man to catch the ball
Cut-1 or Cut-2 or Cut-3 when you want the cutoff man to
catch the ball and throw to a base to get a trailing runner
Eat-it, Eat-it - hold the ball, no throw

48
 Communication Responsibilities by Position (1)

Pitcher
Pitch selection, nod or shake off pitch catcher
Who you are throwing to (SS or 2B) for a force at 2B with
runner on first
Communicate with 1B on soft rollers to right side
Point to pop-ups and yell up, up, up, especially to help catcher

Catcher
Pitch selection/location
Change in signs with runners at 2B
Pickoff plays and pitchouts
First and third plays
Remind pitcher to cover first on groundballs to right get
over
Remind pitcher where to throw on come backers to get lead
runner
Remind pitcher to step and throw
4-4-4 on infield plays at the plate (force or tag plays)
1-1-1 on good sacrifice bunts when we cannot get lead runner
Go to mound if pitcher throws 4 straight balls, or when pitcher
needs to get re-focused
Relay for plays at the plate
49
 Cut calls on throws with no play at home

First Base
Communicate with Pitcher on bunts, soft rollers to right side
Flip on balls flipped to pitcher covering 1B
Runner, runner when runner steals second
Tag, tag when runner at first is tagging up
Communicate with 3B on who is cutoff man on singles with plays
at home
Remind shortstop to tag runner on 3-6 double play

Communication Responsibilities by Position (2)

Second Base/Shortstop
Who is covering second on steal (open or closed mouth)
Remind pitcher who is covering second on ball back to pitcher for
force out at second
Communicate with pitcher on pickoffs at 2B (flash glove, other
signals)
Who is cuttoff and who covers second on singles
Who takes the lead and who trails on tandem relays on sure
doubles
Flip or drop on double play throws
Hit me, Hit me to 1B, 3B and Pitcher on double plays and
force outs at second
Runner, Runner when runner attempts to steal third
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 Tag, tag when runner at second is tagging up

Third Base
Calls ALL bunt defense plays
Communicate with Pitcher on bunts to third base side
4-4-4 when runner breaks to home on first and third
situations
Runner, runner when runner steals home or suicide squeeze
Tag, tag when runner at third is tagging up
Communicate with 1B on who is cutoff man on singles with plays
at home

Outfielders
Short or Deep coverage on balls in the gap. CF must ensure
this communication happens on every batter, with both the RF
and LF.
In, In, In to help other outfielder on line drives
Back, Back, Back on balls over other outfielders head
No Doubles to remind other outfielders to keep balls in front of
them. We will only call a no doubles defense in close games in
the last inning(s).

Where is the Play Rules

Philosophy
Where is the play is determined by runners on base and the
type of hit.
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 We will set up our basic cutoff/relay positioning based on the
situation.
However, as they play unfolds, we may need to adjustments on
where to throw the ball.

General rules

Runners Type of Where is Secondary

Hit primary play Play(s)
No runners Single 2B none
No runners Double 3B
Runner on 1 st
Single 3B 2B
Runner on 1 st
Double Home 3B
Runner on 2nd Single Home 2B
Double 3B
Runner @ 1st & 2nd Single Home 3B/2B
Runner @ 1st & 2nd Double Home 3B

Bases Loaded- Same as Runners on First & Second

Runner at Third Only- Same as no runners
Runners at 1st and 3rd- Same as runner on First

52
 Offensive Signs

We will use the following structure for offensive signs

(From 3B coach):

INDICATOR - SIGN - CONFIRMATION

For a sign to be on, both the indicator AND the confirmation sign
must be given. The sign is only active with the confirmation sign.
3B coach will always start with right arm extended in the air.

INDICATOR - RH to chest (before the sign)

(RH = right hand)

CONFIRMATION - RH to across chest (after the

sign)

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WIPE OFF - wipe down either right arm or left arm.
This wipes off any sign that was given.

REPEAT SAME PLAY - RH to nose (no indicator or

confirmation required)

Signs with the LH alone have no meaning and are

decoys

Offensive Signs (2)

STEAL - RH to right leg

SAC BUNT - RH to belt

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BUNT FOR HIT - RH across belt

HIT AND RUN - RH to hat

SUICIDE SQUEEZE - RH to right ear

SAFETY SQUEEZE - LH and RH to both ears

FAKE BUNT - RH to left hand

FAKE BUNT, HIT & RUN - both hands to hat

TAKE PITCH - RH fist (no indicator or confirmation

is required for this)

TAKE UNTIL STRIKE 1 - RH fist, then number 1 (no

indicator or confirmation required)

55
 Bunt Defense Signs

ALL bunt defense signs are given by the 3RD

Baseman. 3rd Baseman needs to get everyones
attention, and then call play.

Fielding Plays

Straight = Crossed fists

Defense 1 = Cross armsGrasp bill of hat

Defense 3 = Cross arms Tap Stomach

Defense 6 = cross arms tap pistol

Trick Plays/Pickoffs

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Defense 22 - open arms, number 2 with hands

Defense 44 - open arms, number 4 with hands

Catcher must confirm pitchout sign to pitcher

Defense 66 - open arms, both hands tap pistols

Catcher must confirm pitchout sign to pitcher

1st and 3rd Defense Signs

1st and 3rd defensive signs will be given by the

catcher. The catcher will step out in from of home
plate and give the signs.

57
The THIRD sign will be the active play. The catcher
will give 3 signs. The THIRD sign is the active play.

2ND BASEMAN READ- TAP HEAD

THROW THROUGH- TAP LEG

FAKE THROW, THROW TO 3RD- TAP LEFT SHOULDER

SHORTSTOP CUTOFF- TAP CHEST

NO THROW- CROSS ARMS

***SIGNAL WILL BE LAST OF 3 SIGN SEQUENCE***

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 Pitch Calling Signs

Catcher, pitcher and coach need to agree on signs to

be used for each pitch. In general, we will use:

Pitch-

1 - Fastball
2- Cutter or Curve
3- Change
4 Other

Location-

No Sign- Down the middle

Inside (RH)- Tap left thigh
Outside (Rh)- Tap Right Thigh
High- hand to stomach
Low- Palm down
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Catcher needs to call pitch and location for each
pitch.

Pitch Calling Signs (2)

Coach will give 3 signs. Only the first sign and the
last sign matter.

Signs from Coach:

First sign will be pitch type:

1 - forehead
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2 - nose
3 - chin
4 - chest

Last sign will be pitch location:

Left ear - left side of plate

Right ear - right side of plate
Nose - right down middle
Hat - high and inside
Chin - low and away

Pitch Calling Signs Example:

nose-forehead-right ear

#2 pitch to right side of plate

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 Pitch Calling Signs (3)

If the last sign is repeated twice with a tap to side

of head between, then the pitch needs to be out of
the strike zone in the location indicated.

Example:

Forehead, shoulder, right ear, tap to side of head,

right ear

Fastball, Off the plate, on the right side of the plate

Other Catcher/Pitcher Signs

Pitch out = Fist

Brush back = Fist + 4

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Pick off lead runner - Flash five fingers

Pitching Approach

1. Get ahead in count

2. Even counts are most important 0-0, 1-1,

2-2

3. Challenge hitters, make them put ball in

play TRUST YOUR DEFENSE

4. Walks are #1 enemy, challenge hitters to

put ball in play

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5. Minimize pitch count
Target <15 pitchers per inning

6. Throw offspeed pitches for strikes

dare hitters to swing at offspeed

7. Do not try to strikeout batters, focus on

getting 3 outs with minimum number of
pitches

8. Work the pitching locations - up & in, low

& away

Pitching Approach (Continued)

Three types of hitters and approach:

64
1. Below average hitters
Steady diet of fastballs, hit locations
Challenge them to put ball in play
Minimize pitch count on these hitters, target less
than 3 pitches
NO WALKS

2. Good, contact hitters

Get ahead with fastballs on 0-0, 1-1, 2-2
Challenge them to put ball in play
Off-speed for strikes when ahead in count -- 2-1,
3-1
Target <5 pitches to get out
NO WALKS

3. Strong, power hitters

Work fastballs locations, up &in and low & away
Change locations
Try to get them to swing at off-speed - must
throw off-speed for strikes
Throw off-speed for strikes on 0-0, 1-1, 2-2
If base is open with 2 outs, do not give in by
throwing fastball down middle

65
 Pitching Statistics

Pitches per inning (target <15 per inning)

% of pitches that are strikes (target 66%)

of batters that reach base by walk or hit

(target less than 33%)

% of batters faces that score a run (target

less than 20%)

These statistics indicate how you are managing

the process of pitching, instead of the results
- like win/loss record

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 Hitting Approach

1. Our goal is to DRIVE the ball, from gap to gap

2. In hitters counts, we are looking to DRIVE the ball. Hitters

counts are: 0-0, 1-0, 2-0, 1-1, 2-1, 3-1

3. To drive the ball, we are looking for a FASTBALL in the crush

zone, where we make consistent hard contact.
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4. Each hitter needs to know his own crush zone

5. Do not chase offspeed pitches in hitters counts unless they

are hanging over the middle of the plate.

6. With 2 strikes, we need to be aggressive in protecting the strike

zone. Fight off close pitches until the pitcher makes a mistake
and throws a pitch we can crush.

7. With runners in scoring position, we are looking for a pitch to

DRIVE up the middle.

8. With runner at 2B and no outs, we are looking for a pitch to hit

to the right side.

9. A 3-0 count is not an automatic take. The 3B coach will tell you
whether or not to take the pitch. If you swing 3-0, it needs to
be at a pitch that you hit hard.

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 Definition of a Quality At Bat

1. Hit the ball hard

2. Execute a play - sacrifice, move the runner over, hit & run,
squeeze

3. Walk

4. Any at bat where the pitcher throws 6 or more pitches

Differences Between A Good Hitter and Bad

Hitter

1. A good hitter makes hard contact in hitters counts because

he swings at pitches he can crush.
A bad hitter makes soft contact on hitters counts
because he swings at bad pitches
2. A good hitter is aggressive on all pitches in his crush zone
A bad hitter takes pitches that he could crush
3. A good hitter is willing to take a walk if he does not get a
pitch to crush
A bad hitter will swing the bat at bad pitches instead
of taking a walk
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 4. A good hitter makes adjustments based on the pitcher and
game situation
A bad hitter uses the same approach every at-bat, for
example take the 1st pitch
5. A good hitter does not give away at bats in any situation,
he battles for a quality at bat every time he steps in the box
A bad hitter gives away at bats, usually by swinging
at bad pitches or taking pitches that he should crush

Hitting Statistics

On-Base Percentage
Target = 0.500

Runs Created per 7 innings

Target = 7.5

Walk to Strikeout Ratio

Target = 1.5
(50% more walks that strikeouts)

HITTER GOALS
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1. I know the fundamentals of being a good hitter
2. I know the strike zone and expect a strike on every pitch
3. I take an aggressive attitude toward hitting
4. I can keep my self-confidence even against good pitchers or
when I'm in a slump
5. I never look at a fastball for a called third strike
6. I keep my weight and hands back as long as possible
7. I think of hitting the ball hard, not far
8. I use batting practice to work on an aspect of hitting, not just
to try to hit the ball far
9. I can lay down the bunt when called upon
10. I have quick hands with good back foot pivot
11. I keep me head on the ball - I try to see the bat hit the ball
12. I want to be the hitter in the clutch situation when the game
is on the line

HITTING

1. STANCE or SET-UP
GRIP- knocking knuckles lined up. Relax hands for maximum
blast.
BALANCE- feet spread wide, length of bat. You will have
better balance and be stronger.
ELBOWS DOWN- Like a fighter.

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 Hands must be kept between the top of strike zone and
bottom of the ear.
Eyes on the pitcher, find his release point. Head horizontal
and level.
Think positive thoughts! Youre always better than his best
stuff.

2. STRIDE
Stride straight toward the pitcher. To do otherwise will
cause you to fly open, or lock up because you are too closed.
Short, controlled stride. Too long of a stride will rob you of
your power base.
Stride TO hit rather than stride AND hit! It is a timing
device used to prepare to hit. It is not part of the swing.
Front foot down before ball is released. Keeping hands and
weight back enables hitter to swing the same on pitches that
have different speeds and location.
Hitter should land on the inside ball of the foot, with firm,
but bent front knee.

3. PIVOT
Back foot explodes to the point of contact. This is used
to generate power from your lower body.
Back heel will be in line with where the ball was hit. This
determines where you turned on the ball, which should be
where it was pitched.

HITTING (2)
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 4. SWING
Drive the back knee inward. This initiates the swing.
Start hip rotation this is where torque is built wing with
hands, not with shoulders or feet.
Let the ball come to you. Trust you bat speed to make a
late decision.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS ON HITTING

SET UP
Get sign, step in box with back foot and set your foots position.
Step in with front foot and square your eyes to the pitcher.
Start a slow waggle, swinging, or rocking motion to stay loose. A
CONFIDENT LOOK.

PLATE POSITION- Closeness to the plate is determined by two

things:
1. A pitch across the inside of the plate should be able to be
hit fair when solid contact is made.
2. A pitch across the outside third should be able to be hit
without the hitter having to reach or lean to make solid
contact.

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These two items lead us to CONTACT POINT. A hitters contact
point depends on pitch location. The ball is hit according to where
it is pitched- there is not a different swing for different locations.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS ON HITTING (2)

TRIGGER
1. Definition: Anything that gets weight back and centered on the
inside of your back foot, with your hands back and in a strong
hitting position.
2. Common triggers are:
Hands go back and up on the stride, with a slight inward
rotation on the front foot.
The front knee initiates an inward rotation of the front side.
3. As you stride your hands move slightly back and up.
4. Your head still remains quiet.

WEIGHT SHIFT
1. On the trigger, weight is shifted to the inside of the back leg.
Back leg is bent, but firm as it catches your weight shift.
2. Weight shift forward stops with the planting of the front heel
and the beginning of the swing.

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 GENERAL PHILOSOPHY

Strive for high well-hit average.

Be aggressive early in the count!
Strive for high OB%- more walks than Ks.
Our ability to hit the ball to ALL fields will sustain big
innings.
HUSTLE all the time.
Look for the extra base at all times after you hit!
When you are at the plate: Know what you are doing, why
you are doing it, and then master it!

Hitting Dry Run Drills

A. STRIDE DRILL- with group, hitters practice their stride.

B. TRIGGER DRILL- with group, hitters practice their trigger.

C. STRIDE AND TRIGGER DRILLS- with group, hitters practice

stride and trigger in succession.

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D. RHYTHM DRILL- with group, hitters practice all four phases of
the swing.
1) Stance 2) Stride and trigger 3) Pivot 4) Swing
Coach emphasizes this by verbally calling out those four in order.

E. HIP TURN DRILL- with group, hitters place bat behind his back
and pivots. Hitters can imagine pitches in different locations and
visualize that his belly button is taking a picture of each pitch at
contact point.

F. ARROW DRILL- With partner, partner stands in front and points

to spots in strike zone to swing at. (This can also be done with
a verbal call from a coach.)

G. NET DRILL- Hitter gets a bat-length away from a net (or fence)
to belly button. Swings without hitting the net.

H. MIRROR DRILL- Hitters swing in front of mirror and looks at his

checkpoints.

I. SLAP HANDS DRILL- Partner holds hand out in top of strike

zone; hitter slaps hand, simulating a swing.

Soft Toss/Short Toss Drills

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A. SOFT TOSS WITHOUT A STRIDE- Tosser shows the ball and when
he brings it back, hitter triggers and swings (no stride, so have
hitter widen stance to the point he would finish his stride).

B. SOFT TOSS WITH A STRIDE- Tosser shows the ball and when he
brings it back, hitter strides, triggers, and swings.

C. HARD TOSS- Tosser throws the ball quick and on a line.

D. HARD TOSS WITH CHANGE UP- Tosser throws ball hard and
quick, then occasionally loops one. Hitter must keep hands back.

E. BACK TOSS- Tosser kneels behind and under-hands with velocity.

Hitter must catch up.

F. BOTTOM HAND- Hitter on one knee, hits with bottom hand only
(can also stand). Will need lighter bat.

G. ONE KNEE- Hitter is on one knee, but use both hands.

J. FRONT TOSS- INSIDE/OUTSIDE- Tosser alternates between inside

and outside pitches.

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K. LAG BAT DRILL (WATCHDOG)- Hitter has post on side of him,
if hitter loops he hits the post.

Soft Toss/Short Toss Drills (2)

L. BOUNCE DRILL- Instead of tossing ball, bounce (hard floor or off

brick) a tennis ball to hitter. Works on staying back.

M. DROP DRILL- Partner stands on a chair and drops ball onto

the middle of the plate. Drop the ball when the hitter strides
and triggers.

N. REVERSE TOSS DRILL- Tosser kneels just behind the hitter.

Makes a firm toss to the back corner of the plate, forcing the
hitter to go the other way.

O. OPPOSITE BP WITH BIRDIES- Pitcher stands just off center of

the mound. Throws birdies to the outside third of the plate,
forcing the hitter to go the other way.

P. MATTINGLY DRILL- Partner gives the hitter a high toss. Hitter

must get on top and drive the ball into the middle of the net.

Q. RAPID FIRE DRILL- Partner feeds five (ONLY FIVE) balls to the
hitter in a very fast action, one right after another.

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 TEE DRILLS

A. STANDARD- Hitter always looks out at a pitcher and tracks ball

down to the tee (visualize).

B. OPPOSITE FIELD- Line up tee with belly bottom and outside

third of the plate.

C. INSIDE/OUTSIDE DRILL- Balls on two tees, partner calls inside or

outside just after trigger.

D. PULL DRILL- Line up tee with front foot at the stride position
and inner third of the plate.

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E. EXTENSION DRILL- using a double tee, two tees of the same
height are placed in line. Hitter tries to drive through both balls.

F. CLEMENTE DRILL- On backside knee use a short tee and drive

ball using the hands.

Seven Situational Stations for a Hitters

Preparation
1. Dugout opposing pitcher tendencies: pitches, his tendencies,
strengths, and apparent weaknesses
Watch your teammates handle the pitcher
Tendency to throw a particular pitch in a situation

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 Tendency to throw a particular pitch in a particular
count
Notice release point does he change it and when?

2. On Deck Circle
Review mental keys you use: line-drive the other way,
stay balanced
Take practice swings, timing the pitcher

3. In route to batters box

Asses the game situation
Do you want to move the runner
Is there a man on 3B, 2B, 1B?
What location, what pitch?
Have your plan formulated before you reach the box.

4. Outside the Batters box (before stepping in)

One more reminder of your mechanical cue.
Take a deep breath breath in and exhale. Your
letting carbon dioxide (the muscle inhibition) out and
oxygen in a muscle enhance remains.
Relax

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 Seven Situational Stations for a Hitters
Preparation (2)

5. In the Batters box

Get into the box with a clear head
Only message you should hear from yourself talk should
be see the ball. Be easy.
If youre thinking about mechanics or anything else get
out of the box!

6. Outside the box

Step out and fix thinking pattern
Coach yourself just see the ball, another deep
breath.
If all is well tell yourself stay right there

7. Back in dugout (after an at-bat)

Review your at-bat.
If youre satisfied with your approach, irrespective of
the result, leave it alone.
If youre unhappy with it, ask yourself these questions
i. What was I trying to do?
ii. What went wrong?
iii. What do I want to do next time?
Then leave it alone and get your head back into the
game
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 Defensive Approach

1. Make the routine play

2. Take the time necessary to get your feet and shoulders

set up to make a good throw. A runner cannot out-run
at good throw.

3. Play defense with your FEET - get in the right position,

be aggressive your feet.

4. Prevent runners from taking an extra base. This is done

by:
Knocking the ball down, even if you cannot
make a play

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 Making good throws
Hitting cutoff men
Backing up your teammates

5. In double play situations, make sure of the out on the

lead runner

6. In sacrifice situations, make sure to get an out

7. Take advantage of baserunning errors by executing

rundowns and tag plays.

8. Do not compound errors. If you make an error, just eat

the ball. Do not compound a fielding error with a
throwing error.

9. Keep runners close

10. COMMUNICATION!!!!
FUNDAMENTALS OF INFIELD PLAY

CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOOD DEFENSIVE PLAYER

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1. A sound defensive player:
Expects/ANTICIPATES the ball hit to him every pitch.
Knows/analyzes the situation every pitch.
Fields the ball on the big hop, down hop, and short
hop.
Knows the physical abilities of all opponents.
Uses sound fundamentals in execution of every play.
Makes the routine play every time.
Leaves his offensive game in the dugout.
Always looks for another play.
Always keeps his feet moving.

2. A sound defensive player NEVER:

Compounds one mistake by making another.
Makes a throw when he has NO play.
Loses sight of the baseball.
Expects a good hop or a good throw.
Drops his head after making a mistake.
Gets back on his heels or stops moving his feet.
Leaves a base uncovered because of lack of hustle.
Turns a routine play into a tough play.
Assumes anything.

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 FIELDING GROUND BALLS PROGRESSION:

1. Relax Position
Get a comfortable position. Things to think about:
count, pitch, where to go with ball, all situations!

2. Ready Position
Left foot slightly ahead of right (if right handed).
Athletic position (do not bend back, use legs).
Closer you are to plate, the lower you set up.
Hands out in front with elbow in, palm of glove to sky.
3. Approach
Try to work body momentum in the direction you will
be throwing.
Lower body gradually while approaching the baseball
(flatten back).
4. Fielding Position
Footwork is Right-Left-Field (R-L-Field).
Thigh is parallel to ground.
Bare hand fingers UP!
5. Throw
Footwork is R-L-Throw
If the ball is low stay low; if the ball is high stay high.
Open-Close-Throw.

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 FOUR TYPES OF GROUND BALLS
1. Ground Ball (routine)
Line up off of glove side shoulder on approach.
Keep hands out front with palm of glove to sky.
Glide to the ball keeping head level.
As you approach the ball, shorten your steps.
Feet are outside the shoulder-width, butt is down, back
is flat, glove is out front of toes, and eyes follow ball
into glove.
Set the ball in front with both hands, bring hands to
waist and stay strong to throw. Have top hand fingers
over glove and pointing to the sky until the ball enters
the glove. Make the exchange as soon as possible and
prepare to throw.
Field through the ball, use a two step shuffle pointing
glove side to target and throw.

2. Ground Ball (forehand)

First move is drop step, then crossover.
Angle back depending on the speed of the ball.
Keep head level at all times.

87
 Sink to the ball the last few steps and lead with our
glove. Bend your knees and take the glove out to get
the ball.
Catch the ball outside/in front of your left foot.
Look the ball in to your glove, pivot on the back hip
and point the glove side shoulder to the target and
throw.

FOUR TYPES OF GROUND BALLS (2)

3. Ground Ball (backhand)

First move is drop step, then crossover.
Angle back depending on the speed of the ball.
Keep head level at all times.
Sink to the ball the last few steps and lead with our
glove. Bend your knees and take the glove out to get
the ball.
Right foot lead for set-up backhand. Out of this,
simply turn and throw with a weight shift to your
right foot.
Left foot lead for moving backhand. Your next step is
big to stop momentum of your body. Catch the ball
out front and give with the ball. Turn to the target
and throw.

88
4. Ground Ball (slow roller)
As you approach the ball, shorten your steps. Line up
ball with left side.
If ball is rolling, use glove, if stopped, use bare hand.
Left foot leads when fielding the ball and throw when
right foot hits the ground.
Throw from where you field the ball and to the
outfield side of first base. The ball will tail back to
the base.

RUNDOWNS

BASIC CONCEPTS

We always get an out in a rundown situation.

Use only one throw to get the runner

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 Between third base and home, run the runner back to third

base, if possible.

Infielders first job is to get into the proper throwing angle.

Do not throw across runners body

Receiver takes one large step out to the throwing arm side

of the man with the ball.

Better to call for the ball too soon than too late.

Determine if runner is committed or uncommitted.

MAN WITH THE BALL

Get the runner running hard; if the runner is running under

control; he controls the situation, not you.

Run with your arm up, showing the ball, NEVER fake a

throw!

Throw the ball when the tagger comes up hard toward you

and/or when he says NOW.

Flick the ball with your wrist, not a full arm motion.

Throw at the head of the tagger.

RUNDOWNS (2)
90
MAN RECEIVING THE BALL (TAGGER)

Start in front of the bag and get in the proper throwing

angle.

Immediately shorten the gap by walking slowly up.

When you want the ball:

Come up hard toward the runner.

Throw hands up and yell, NOW.

Tag with both hands, ball in glove.

Defensive Statistics

Our goal is to make 2 or less errors per game.

As a team, we need to get outs on routine plays.

Here are the benchmark goals:

Outs on 90+% of chances Excellent

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 Outs on 80-90% of chances Average

Outs on <80% of chances - Below Average

Base Running Approach

1. We want to be aggressive on the base paths and take the extra

base when the other team gives it up.

2. The approach should be to run to the decision point at max

speed. The decision point is the point at which you decide
whether or not to take the extra base or not. This will put
you in position to take the extra base.

3. The biggest mistake is to get to the decision point at half

speed, then try to take the extra base. If you are going half
speed DO NOT try to take the extra base.

4. Push leads to the max. Take the extra step if the pitcher is
not holding you.

5. Base-running is situational:
With less than two outs, do not be be over-
aggressive. Trust the batters behind you to
succeed.
With 2 outs, take the extra base aggressively.
Make the opponents throw and catch the ball.

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 Do not make the 1st or 3rd out at third base

6. You HAVE to rely on the 3B coach in the following situations:

Going from 1st to 3rd
Scoring from 2nd

7. In all other situations, the base runner needs to find the ball
and make his own decision

8. Slide into the base on 100% of all force out situations at 2B,
3B and Home. NO EXCUSE for not sliding in a force out
situation at 2B.
Base Running

Base Running Approach (2)

Base running defines the PERSONALITY of a baseball team. It is

essential that we understand who we are and that our PHILOSOPHY
of how we play baseball is expressed through our base running.

Our base running is AGGRESSIVE, we look to put PRESSURE

on the defense, causing mistakes and creating favorable offensive
opportunities. To do this, we must PLAY HARDER than our
opponents and show them that!
We ANTICIPATE situations and we always HUSTLE to ensure
we are ready for any OPPORTUNITY.

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 In our system, the base runner is ACCOUNTABLE for his
actions and he must use his own JUDGMENT to make good
decisions.
Good base running is a matter of CHARACTER; bad base
running usually is a lack of CONCENTRATION.
There are no excuses for missing a sign. If you missed a
sign, ASK!
As soon as you reach base find the coach for signs.
Look for signs before you step into the batters box.
A move to first does not change or take off the signs.

Base Running Approach (3)

Home Plate to 1B

1. THE 45 FOOT RETAINING LINE

The retaining line is marked halfway down the first baseline
(double white lines).

94
 The rule states that a runner must stay between, or within,
the foul side of the retaining line, when running to first base.
This rule usually comes into play on a bunt, or a slow roller out
in front of home plate that is fielded by the pitcher or
catcher.
You are safe and the ball is still live if the throw hits you
when you are running between the lines.
You are out and all runners go back to their bases if the throw
hits you.

2. HIGH THROW FROM THE OUTFIELD

Make sure you always run hard out of the box after a base hit.
The throw from the outfielder going to home plate (or Middle
infielders), read the ball out of his hand.
High throw, keep going to second base.
Low throws, freeze and read the play.
When runners are in front of you on the bases, make sure they
read the throw so you dont run them off a base.
Make the defense cut the throw to the plate if you need the
run to score (good 2 out situation).

Base Running Approach (3)

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 First Base Runner

1. BUNT PLAY
Be less aggressive on your secondary lead.
Do NOT anticipate a good bunt; make sure you see the ball roll
down on the ground before you break for second base.
Do NOT crossover with your feet until the ball is on the
ground.
If the hitter makes a bad bunt, youre going to be out at
second.
Make sure you do your job, and do not get doubled up on at
first on a bunted pop-up.

2. ONE-WAY LEAD VS. THE LEFT-HANDED PITCHER

As the pitcher lifts his leg, your weight should be OBVIOUSLY
on your left leg and lean back towards first base. DO NOT get
into your secondary lead until you are sure the ball is going to
the plate.

3. SECONDARY LEADS
When the pitcher starts to the plate, bounce three times so
that your weight is on your right foot when the ball is in the
hitting zone. STAY LOW.
Do not cross your feet. Do not swing your arms.
The key is to not attract attention. Same secondary lead
every time.
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 Base Running Approach (4)

4. STEALING MOTION
Create a walking lead to start your momentum
Left arm starts with a quick punch forward to turn the upper
body toward second. The left leg drives across the body in a
quick, explosive crossover step. The arms are on time and
working. This immediately puts you into proper running
position.

5. STANCE
Start from the basic athletic position.
Hands are loose and out in front of the body. The arms are
at right (90 degree) angles.
Knees are slightly bent for good balance with your weight on
the balls of your feet.
Feet are approximately shoulder-width apart, with an open
stance facing towards second base. Your front foot is slightly

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 open. The back foot points straight ahead and is approximately
a quarter step behind the front.

6. GETTING OFF THE BASE

Left-Right-Shuffle-Shuffle. Eyes on the pitcher! Further from
the base use small shuffle steps.
Your lead should be in a direct line to second base from off the
back edge of first base.

7. GETTING BACK TO BASE

Go back on your stomachget dirty!

8. THE LINE DRIVE

On infield line drives you must freeze and start back towards
first.
On outfield line drives or fly balls, go as far as you can without
getting doubled up. Do not plan 2B unless you are positive the
ball cannot be caught.

Base Running Approach (5)

9. SLOW ROLLER TO SECOND BASE

A slow ground ball is hit towards the second baseman. If the
second baseman comes up into the baseline to field the ball,
stop. Make him turn the double play to second (4-6-3), or
to first base (4-3-6).
10. THIRD/FIRST FAKE
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 Base runners are on first and third bases.
If the first base runner takes off for second, make sure that
the pitcher throws the ball to home, just as in a hit-and-run
situation.

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 First Base Runner/Left-Handed Pitcher
Situations
1. LEAD OFF AND THE SECONDARY LEAD
One way lead. Your secondary lead starts when the LHPs
front foot hit the ground (two shuffles).

2. STEALING FIRST MOVE

You are reading the first move of the LHPs right foot/leg.
Keep your head on the pitcher for your first three or four
steps to protect from the glide step to home. If he glide
steps, stop, and keep your feet moving. DO NOT steal against
the glide!

3. STEALING KEYS WITH A LEFT-HANDED PITCHER

Pitcher that looks at First vs. pitcher that looks toward Home:
Many pitchers try to deceive the runner by looking in the
opposite direction in which they are going to throw. If he
looks to First, he is going to the plate, if he looks toward the
plate, he is coming to first base.

High leg kick vs. low leg kick: The pitcher will kick low when he
comes to first base. To get more on his throw to the plate,
he tends to kick higher.

Toe pointing down vs. toe pointing up: Another point to key in
on is the direction the left-hander points his lead foot on his
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 kick. If his shoe is pointing down, he is coming to first base.
If his toe is pointing up, he is coming toward the plate.

Erect upper body vs. arching upper body: As the pitcher kicks,
he will tilt his upper body to try to deceive the runner. If his
upper body is erect, he is going to the plate.

First Base Runner/Left-Handed Pitcher

Situations (2)

Breaking the plate: The plane of the rubber is an imaginary line

running from the front edge of the rubber to first base.
Whenever any part of the left-handers right leg (foot, knee)
breaks the plane, the pitcher must go to the plate. If he kicks
straight up and doesnt break the plane, then he is coming to
first base.

Legs spread vs. legs closer together: When the pitcher is coming
to first base, the legs will be spread a little to try to deceive
the runner. When he is going to the plate, he will have his legs
closer together which will enable him to drive toward the plate
better. This gap will be noticed when he kicks straight up. A
good base runner will be able to detect the gap between the legs
and not get picked off First. Then when the legs are closer
together, he will be able to get a good jump toward Second.

Hands higher vs. hands lower: Some pitchers will lift their hands
higher when they throw to first base. When they throw to the

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 plate the hands are a little lower and they tend to bring them
back more.

Big lead vs. short lead: One of the best ways to steal on a left
hander is to try to deceive him by getting a big lead (15 feet).
As soon as he kicks, you go back toward first. The next step is
to shorten up and go on his first move. The pitcher usually
thinks that he has you fooled and that you are not going
anywhere. You want to keep running toward Second even if he
throws to First. It will take two throws, two catches, and a tag
to get you out. The only exception would be if the pitcher made
a quick throw to First, then you would read that and get back.
Try to entice the pitcher to throw over when you have the 15-
foot one-way lead. Lefties seldom throw over twice unless they
have an outstanding move.

First Base Runner/Stealing Keys against a Right-

Handed Pitcher

1. Lifting right heel vs. left heel: If he picks up his right heel he is
coming to first base. If he picks up his left heel, he is going to
the plate.

2. Cap bill pointing down vs. cap bill pointing up: If his cap bill is
pointing down, then he is going to the plate. If his cap bill is
pointing up, he is coming to first base. Also, you will find that

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 some pitchers will fake their head up and down several times
before they throw to the plate. If you find them doing a certain
amount every time, then you just count and then go.

3. Open shoulder vs. closed shoulder: If he comes set with an open

shoulder you have an advantage. Then when he moves it in he
must go to the plate. Some pitchers will close their shoulder a
little when they come to first or vice versa.

4. Front elbow: When the front elbow opens up he is coming to first

base. When the front elbow closes or tucks in, he is going to the
plate.

5. Shoulder leaner: Usually a pitcher that has a low leg kick will be a
shoulder leaner. As soon as he starts to lean toward the plate,
you can get a great jump toward second. It may be a slight lean
but just enough to get a good jump.

6. Pitcher that throws from the top vs. pitcher that comes set:
The pitcher that throws only from the top of his stretch is an
excellent pitcher to steal on. After he comes set you know that
99% of the time, he never throws over. This allows you as a
base runner to feel very confident; now you can study his moves
toward the plate.

First Base Runner/Stealing Keys against a Right-

Handed Pitcher (2)
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7. Rhythm pitcher: Some pitchers will get in a certain rhythm and
you will be able to count 1001, 1002,, then break toward
second simultaneously with him as he moves toward the plate.

8. Pitcher looking toward third base vs. pitcher looking toward the
plate: Some pitchers will always look toward third base before
they throw to first base. Then they will look toward the plate
and always go to the plate without exception. Sometimes they
will look to the plate and when they want to try to pick-off,
they will look toward Third before coming to First.

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 MISCELLANEOUS BASE RUNNING
1. BALL IN THE DIRT
Follow the ball out of the pitchers hand. Read the path of
the ball, ANY pitch that is thrown down near home plate
GO!
You must have a good, aggressive secondary lead. If you do
not, you will not have the momentum youll need to take the
extra base.
ANTICIPATE the ball in the dirt. The countis this a
situation for a breaking ball?
Blocking a pitch, then getting up on his feet quickly, and
making a throw is difficult for a catcher; WE WILL TAKE
ADVANTAGE OF THIS!

2. DELAY STEAL
Do not need a great jump.
Initial lead. When the pitcher goes to the plate, base runner
takes a HOP HOP HOP (3 good hops) and then runs to second
base.
The key is to NOT be too quick on the hops. We play this like
our normal secondary lead, only run after the hops.
If we leave too early, they will throw us out by 10 feet.
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 The Second Base Runner

1. THE LEAD FROM THE BASE

Lead as far enough so that no matter what the pitcher or
middle infielders do you can always dive back safe.
Keep your eyes focused on the pitcher. He has the ball and is
the only one that can pick you off.
Once initial lead is taken, do not jump around. Just watch the
pitcher

2. SECONDARY LEAD OFF 2B

After pitch is delivered, turn hips and start to run to 3B.
When the ball is in the strike zone you should be landing on
your right foot and reading the play.
Deepen lead with two outs to get a better angle to score
Ground ball rule: ball at you or to your left GO!

3. BALL IN THE DIRT

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 This is a good spot to READ the pitch. Behind the pitcher,
you can read the ball going in a downward angle. IF you read
the ball in the dirt GO!

4. TWO OUTS/TWO STRIKES

Runner on 2B. Two outs and two strikes on the hitter.
Once the hitter starts swinging his bat downward into the
contact zone, start your break for third base.
Three things will happen on the pitch:
1) The ball will be put into play.
2) The hitter will foul the ball off. Return to 2B
3) Hitter swings through the pitch for strike three and
makes the third out.

Base Runner on Third

KEYS

1. Lead off foul return in fair territory.

2. As pitch is being made, turn and walk down towards H-plate
timing things so that your right foot hits the ground as ball
crosses plate (just like at 2B). That way you can push off and
go back to third or push off and go.
3. Freeze on line drive. Tag on anything off ground. If it falls youll
score anyway.

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4. Suicide squeeze: take normal initial lead. Break for plate when
pitchers front foot is hitting ground towards home plate.

DOUBLE STEAL OFFENSE

1. Straight Steal
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 Runner at 1B steals 2B (optional or mandatory steal).
3B runner extends lead with a 3-step fake break from 3B to
try and freeze catcher.

2. Regular Double Steal

Runner at 1B steals 2B if he gets a jump.
Runner at 3B increases lead with pitch beyond a normal
secondary lead and moves into line.
Runner at 3B steals home if catcher releases baseball to 2B.
Do not wait to read defense after catcher releases just break
for home.

3. Delayed Double Steal

Runner at 1B uses delay steal technique.
Runner at 3B increases lead with pitch and takes aggressive
secondary lead. Look for the middle infielders to be late for
bag or bad feed by catcher to determine if you should try to
steal from 3B.

4. Early Break from 3B LHP

Both runners wait for LHP to get to set position and make
eye contact with runner at 1B.
Runner at 3B breaks for home at the end of situation A above,
and runner at 1B breaks for 2B.
LHP is facing runner at 1B and we are trying to get LHP to
throw to 1B so runner at 3B can score if defense plays on back
runner. If you are an out, get in rundown and look for
someone on defense to run into for obstruction call.

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 Split second of indecision on the part of the pitcher may allow
the runner from 1B to reach 2B and runner from 3B to score.
IF pitcher goes to plate, runner at 3B must stop and retreat
to 3B.

DOUBLE STEAL OFFENSE (2)

5. Early Break from 1B RHP

Runner at 1B breaks when pitcher is in set position.
Runner at 3B increases lead when runner at 1B breaks and if
pitcher turns to throw to 2B without checking runner at 3B
he breaks for home.
If pitcher checks runner at 3B first, the back runner steals 2B.

6. First Movement Double Steal LHP

Runner at 3B should take a long initial lead.
When LHP picks stride leg up (first movement), runner at 3B
and 1B breaks for home and 2B. IF LHP goes to 1B, we are
trying to beat the relay from the 1B back to the catcher. If
either runner is a sure out, get in a run down.
IF pitcher goes to plate, runner at 3B must stop and retreat
to 3B.

7. Long Lead at 1B RHP

Runner at 1B takes extra long lead to draw throw from
pitcher. If RHP steps off, get in a run down. We want to

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 create a run down situation and get defense to make a mistake
or get an obstruction/interference call.
Runner at 3B looks for the right situation to break for home
during run down. Good time is when 2B or SS release throw
back to 1B man.

8. Fake Suicide Squeeze

A. Hitter fake bunts. 1B runner steals on pitch. 3B runner
(starting close to 3B) fakes steal home. Catcher will come up
looking to throw to 3B, runner must be in position to dive
back safely. Now we have runners on 2nd and 3rd.

Practice Organization

Below you will find a generalized practice plan for a typical Baseball
practice.

1. Announcements
2. Warm-up Routine (see page 7)
3. Throwing Routine (see page 10)
4. Square Drill
5. Basic Throws
Start with catcher (4)
Call out base to throw ball to: C-2-1-4-3-1-2-4-repeat
6. Pre-Game Infield and Outfield
Relay and Cutoff Information
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 Relay Man: SS or 2B go into outfield and receive a
throw from OF on an extra base hit and then relay
that throw to 2nd, 3rd, or Home Plate.
Cutoff Man: 1B, 3B, SS, 2nd positions himself 30
70 from the base where the play will occur and be in
line with the throw from the OF. He will cutoff
the throw if it is off target, weak, too late. Then will
complete throw or throw to another base where a
runner is attempting to advance.
7. Rundowns
8. Leads and Breaks
9. 3 line pickoffs (3 pitchers on the mound each going to a
different base)
10. Team Defense
11. Team Offense

Practice Organization (2)

12. Batting Practice

Stations

1. Home plate (2 bunts, 5 swings, 4 swings, 3 swings)

2. Base running (react to ball off bat)
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 3. Defense (shag)
4. Defense (live off bat)
5. Batting Cage (drill work)
6. Pickle ball batting practice
7. Bunting (sacrifice, drag, suicide)

13. Closure/Clean-up

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