Base Running In Youth Baseball | Key Points For Great Baserunning
coachtrev writes "BASE RUNNING Key Points For Base Running In Youth Baseball
Base Running is very important in youth baseball. Sadly many coaches put it at the end of practice or wait till it is absolutely necessary before putting it in to practice time.There is only one thing that wins and looses ball games, and that would be runs. You cross the plate one more time than the other team at the end of the game you win. The only way you are going to score runs in youth baseball is from running the bases and might I add running them not only aggressively, but intelligently. Nothing takes the air out of a team more than bad base running in youth baseball, it eliminates the possibility of scoring that runner and that could be and is often the difference in the game. The statement to follow is the basic point I like to instill in base runners..
We want to take on the mentality as a play maker on the bases. Just the same as a big punt return stirs the crowd so does aggressive base running in youth baseball.
CONTROLLED AGGRESSION -- which allows for relaxed reaction. We view base running as the “special teams” of our club, which will become a key factor in the outcome of every game.
As exciting as base running may be notice the words I have in bold controlled aggression, this must be emphasized at all levels of youth baseball. Mistakes happen when base runners get out of control. Here is a brief overview that coaches and players can use to create check points to help you become the best base runner you can be:
KEY POINTS
* Aggressive -- Prepared -- Knowledge
* Work in batting practice react to every ball off the bat work on specific breaks and reads off the bat:
* Break down base running and master every aspect of it.
* Read the ball in the hitting zone Always think about advancing the extra base on ball in the dirt.
* Don’t worry about failure: worrying only paralyzes ( analyze get paralyzed) trust you instinct.
* Study the pitcher: find his weakness and exploit it.
* Run hard out of the box No false steps.
* Smooth running form: forward lean, consistent stride, etc.
* Run straight up the baseline: not on the grass.
* Right foot hits the front center of the base: running smoothly through the bag (don’t leap or peel off).
* Accelerate through the bag then break down and look right: don’t run into right field.
* Touch the base every time.
THE TURN
o Always think “two”: the outfielder must field the ball cleanly and be in good throwing position to stop you.
o Make your turns crisp and sharp to allow you to get from point A (before you hit’ first) to point B as quickly as possible.
o Hit the inside corner of the bag preferably with your left foot however don’t break stride if your right foot hits the bag first that is okay.
o Know the arm strength of the outfielders and how quickly they get rid of the ball.
o Realize that your turn can be more aggressive (bigger) on a ball hit to left field, and respectively smaller on balls hit to center and right.
aggressive base running in youth baseball.
