It's a great day to be a Slugger!
It's a great day to be a Slugger!
Below is an ever-growing list of resources for our coaches. From position information to baserunning guidelines to situational breakdowns, this page will hopefully become a valuable resource for you as you grow as a coach. Remember, if we want our boys to improve, we have to be willing to improve for them too.
Click the sections below to open pages with more in-depth information for each topic.
In a word….stations. As we enter Fall ball, we have a lot of fundamentals to solidify and correct. For this reason, stations at practice are vital to success. As we continue to improve, less emphasis on the fundamentals will be needed and more team situations will be integrated. But first, we have to build a solid foundation to teach off of.
Pitching – pitching is essential to game success. Nothing will win or lose you a game like consistent pitching. Failure to practice from the mound will only lead to uncertainty and unpreparedness during a game. Players this age think that velocity comes solely from arm speed. This is untrue and a quick path to injury. Work on emphasizing ground work to build velocity, NOT arm speed. Discuss pronation of arm upon release (drastically decreases likelihood of injury to elbow – utilize reverse wall drill to remedy.) Monitor arm position at forward drive (e.g. RH pitcher should have ball pointing towards 3B, not backwards as this alters ability to get behind the ball). Emphasize shoulder-to-hip separation, incorporating drills to maximize angle (band work, step-behind drill, etc…). Utilize seated drill to work on leg drive and ground clearance. Remember, that at 9U, 10,U, 11U, accuracy is king. If you can throw strikes, you will get outs. Make sure your pitchers trust their defense and remind them that the other team hitting the ball is a byproduct of throwing strikes and that’s a good thing.
Catching – want to prevent the other team from waltzing around the bases free of charge? Got to work your catchers. Work on throw-downs, work on blocking, and work multiple kids at this position. You will want multiple catchers. It’s also essential to work removal of mask on lost balls and pop flies. They can’t catch what they can’t see, so make sure they practice getting that mask out of the way. Work backstop-to-pitcher toss in “play at the plate” situations. Might seem silly, but you’d be surprised how many plays there are there at this age, and the ability to make that toss gets infinitely harder as the game intensity increases and your catcher starts to get tired.
Infield – aside from individual responsibilities, we must work on quick hands and working through the ball – Ron Washington drills (“Ozzie” drills) are a must for practice and parents to utilize at home. Standing “A” drills build upon that and really reinforce low half position when fielding. Your kids need to be working on making athletic movements with their legs. Once the ball is in the glove, the steps to throw do not need to be robotic, they’ve got to be smooth, fluid, and athletic. Work on the energy transfer during fielding. Drill each kid with how to transition their body quickly from fielding to throwing (incl. backhands and forehands). Move your infielders around a lot, giving them experience making throws from third to first and understanding bag coverage duties.
Outfield – must work pop fly drills at EVERY practice for EVERY kid (use Accu-Bat or fungo or machine). Outfielder must position under balls with adequate time…..throwing hand nearby…..working through the pop fly towards cut-off or base. As they improve, work on getting momentum started earlier and drill crow-hops. This will allow for shallower or unneeded cutoffs. Machine-assisted cone drills (weave and diamond) for shoulder drop practice and footwork practice. Work on backing up duties for outfielders. Remember, no matter where it’s hit, every has a job and everyone should be moving.
Hitting – work on mechanics heavily. Tee and soft toss work will help tremendously with this. Back hip should fire with each swing. Both hands on the bat through contact. Plate fear can cause a player to step out (step into the bucket). Work on plate distance and outside pitches to help remedy this. Reps are essential. Push-pivot-pull drill helps with staying closed. Dropped outside ball work also helps. Work swing in two distinct halves (stride is separate from trunk rotation), ensuring weight rearward, hands stay back, hip fires early, hands in and through quickly, head down on ball, good follow through, and finish with proper balance.
Baserunning – can be worked individually or as team. Teamwork usually consists of multiple players on shallow RF line getting a lead and breaking on coaches whistle to an imaginary line through 2B. 5-in-1 drill is an excellent way to incorporate the team with minimal downtime. 9U work on closed and modified bases, 10U and up work on open bases. Players should sprint through first with an understanding of breaking down after the bag and looking for overthrows. 1B coaching should be minimal as players should be drilled at practice what to do in each situation. Work making the turn and watching, going for two, and pressuring defense by faking going for two. Steal and hit-n-run signs should be practiced and learned. Coaches should inform of situation, but players should all know it already. Baserunning IQ wins games.
For individual drills, see Drills page.
Click each position to view the situational responsibilities for that fielder.
The primary purpose of a pitcher is to pitch the baseball effectively. However, once the ball is put into play, the pitcher will have defensive responsibilities as a fielder. Let’s take a look at some Little League Coaching Tips for Situational Responsibilities of the Pitcher.
The pitcher has two options if the ball is hit to them with a runner on first base. The pitcher can either throw it to second base or they can throw it to first base. However, where they throw it will depend on the number of outs. With less than two outs, the pitcher will want to start a double play by throwing to second base. This can be a very difficult play at the Little League level because it involves the infielder getting to the base on time and the pitcher making a good throw ( which is sometimes even difficult for big league pitchers). I must admit that during my coaching days I would sometimes instruct my pitcher to take the easier out at first base even with less than two outs.
With less than two outs, the pitcher should always be taking the force out at third base unless there is an unusual circumstance ( like a bobble or the batted ball takes the pitcher towards the opposite side of the field in which case a throw to second or first might be a higher percentage play).
With runners on first and third base and less than two outs, the pitcher will want to at least look the runner back who is on third before throwing to second or first base. If the runner on third is the winning run, then the pitcher may even want to just hold the ball rather than chance the winning run scoring by a throwing error. This will really depend on the difficulty level of that play.
With runners on second and third base and less than two outs, the pitcher(again) will want to at least look the runner back who is on third base before making a throw to first base.If the runner on third is the winning run, then the pitcher (again) may even want to just hold the ball rather than chance the winning run scoring by a throwing error. This will really depend on the difficulty level of that play.
With a runner on second and less than two outs, the pitcher will want to look the runner back to second base before throwing to first base. This may give the first baseman a chance at throwing the runner out at third after making the force play. In some cases the look back can actually prevent the runner from advancing.
With a runner on third base and less than two outs, the pitcher will want to at least look the runner back before throwing over to first base. Again, if the runner on third is the winning run then the pitcher must do everything they can to not let the run score which includes possibly having to hold onto the baseball.
With less than two outs, the pitcher should throw home unless there is some type of unusual circumstance. With two outs, the pitcher should still throw home but could elect to throw over to first base for the final out. Both are high percentage plays but if the play is not made at first base for some reason then the run will score easily.
In MLB, pitchers rarely call for the pop up and usually allow one of the infielders to take it for them. This is because most pitchers are not great fielders. At the Little League level, a team’s best athletes might be the pitchers( who also play other positions). With that said, the pitcher will still need to communicate that they are going to take the pop or they are going to need help.
The pitcher will back up the catcher on all plays going to the plate from the outfield. On all other plays coming from the outfield, the pitcher will want to be useful by anticipating bad throws that miss their mark. For example, the pitcher could position themselves near the third base dug out on a throw coming from the center fielder to third base. If the throw is off its mark then the pitcher is there to intercept it before it ends up in the dugout or rolling around in “no man’s land”.
With a runner on third base, the pitcher will have to cover home plate if there is a passed ball or wild pitch. The pitcher will have to be ready to take a throw ( usually an under hand throw) from the catcher and apply a tag to the incoming runner.
Pitcher will not be a cutoff man in most situations. Usually they will back up bases as extra support in case there is an overthrow. Usually 3rd and home plate will be the bases they are backing up.
The catcher’s responsibilities go way beyond just receiving pitches. The catcher is the last line of defense against runners attempting to cross home plate and they will do some “directing of traffic” in high pressure situations. The catcher in a lot of ways is the “anchor” of the infield. Let’s take a look at some Little League Coaching Tips for Situational Responsibilities of the Catcher.
The catcher should run up the line to back up throws coming from infielders to first base.
With two outs and a runner on first base, the catcher will throw to first base for the final out. With less than two outs, the catcher can throw down to second base to start a double play or simply throw down to first base for an out. The catcher could also attempt a pick off to retire the base runner at first. *Any pick off attempt made by the catcher is a calculated risk.
With two outs and runners on first and second base, the catcher can throw to first or third for the final out depending on which play is easier (will depend on where the catcher picks the ball up). In this situation, the catcher normally will not throw down to second for the final out because it would be a bit more difficult play to execute. The catcher could gamble with a pick off attempt at first base in this situation because an out would end the inning.With less than two outs, the catcher has a number of options that will depend on the play’s difficulty which will depend on where they pick the ball up. The catcher can throw down to third base to start a double or triple play! The catcher can also either throw down to second base to start a double play or throw over to first base for an out. The catcher will want to stay away from any type of pick off attempt at first base in this situation because the runner on second base could advance to third base regardless if the pick off is successful or not. It’s a much riskier play with less than two outs.
With two outs and runners on first and third base, the catcher will simply want to throw the ball to first base for the final out. With two outs, the catcher could consider “gambling” with a pick off attempt at either base because it would end the inning.With one out, the catcher can throw down to second base to start a double play. With no outs, the catcher should look back the runner on third base and then throw to first for an out. With less than two outs, the catcher could also fake a throw to first before throwing to first base. If the fake throw draws the runner off third base then the catcher could attempt to pick the runner off or start a run down. This would be a risky and complicated play. If the runner on third is the game winning run then the catcher may have to consider just “eating” the ball to prevent that run from scoring. The catcher should also avoid any type of pickoff play at first base with less than two outs. The catcher could still consider a pick off attempt at third base because an out would eliminate a scoring threat.
With two outs and runners on second and third base, the catcher will want to simply throw to first base for the final out. The catcher can also attempt a pick off at third base but normally will not attempt to pick off the runner at second base (too risky). With less than two outs, the catcher should look back the runner at third base before throwing to first base for an out. The catcher could also fake a throw to first base before throwing to first base for an out. If the fake throw draws the runner off third base then the catcher could choose to pick the runner off third base or start a run down. For the most part, the catcher will ignore the runner on second base. If the runner on third is the game winning run then the catcher may have to consider just “eating” the ball to prevent that run from scoring. With less than two outs, the catcher could consider a pick off attempt at third but should not attempt a pick off attempt at second base ( again; too risky).
With two outs and a runner on second base, the catcher should simply throw to first base for the final out. Normally, the catcher will not attempt a pick off at second base because it is just too high risk. With less than two outs, the catcher should look back the runner at second base before throwing to first for an out. A fake throw to draw the runner off second base is not recommended. This is too risky and too complicated a play.
With two outs and a runner on third base, the catcher should simply throw to first base for the final out. The catcher could also consider a pick off attempt at third base to end the inning. With less then two outs, the catcher should look back the runner at third base before throwing to first base for an out. The catcher could also consider a fake throw to first base before throwing down to first base for the out. If the fake throw draws the runner off of third base then then catcher can attempt a pick off or start a run down. If the runner on third is the game winning run then the catcher may have to consider just “eating” the ball to prevent that run from scoring.
With two outs and bases loaded, the catcher can throw to first or third for the final out depending on which play is easier (will depend on where the catcher picks the ball up). The catcher can also just step on home plate if the ball is scooped up in close enough proximity. Any type of pick off play with bases loaded is going to be risky. However, the catcher could consider “gambling” with a pick off attempt at either first or third base because it would end the inning. With less than two outs, the catcher should attempt to cover the plate unless the ball is close enough where they have no choice but to field it. If the catcher does come out too far to make a play then they will all but concede the run at the plate. In this situation, the catcher could throw down to third or first base depending on which play is easier. If the runner on third is the game winning run the catcher will have to turn all attention to making the proper play to prevent that run from scoring- step on home to make the out or cover the plate and wait for a throw. With less than tow outs, the catcher should only gamble with a pick off at third base because it would eliminate a scoring threat.
The catcher will need to communicate with other fielders ( pitcher, first baseman and third baseman) concerning pop ups that are in the zone of multiple players.
The catcher should be observing for proper positioning of defensive players after a ball is hit to the outfield. The catcher can help line up cut offs and can also remind other fielders of defensive assignments. When a throw is coming home, the catcher should be instructing the cut off ( first or third baseman) to either cut the throw or let it come uninterrupted to the plate.
First base is obviously a key position on the baseball field. If you can prevent batters from reaching first then victory is there for the taking. The first baseman must be a ready, capable receiver of the baseball to record outs at first base. However, the first baseman will have many other situational responsibilities other than just covering first base. Let’s take a look at some Little League Coaching Tips for Situational Responsibilities of the First Baseman.
With a runner on first, the first responsibility of the first baseman will be to hold the runner on first. The first baseman will need to set up in fair territory in a position to quickly catch and apply a tag to the baserunner. At the older age groups, some first basemen like to set up in a position to block the runner from returning to first, especially since baserunners almost always return to first base diving headfirst.
With a runner on first base, the first baseman must be prepared to do one of two things if the baseball is hit to them. If by fielding the ball, the first baseman is drawn away from first base then they should throw the ball down to second base for a force out. If by fielding the ball, the first baseman is drawn back to first base then the first baseman should step on the base for the force out. The first baseman should follow this by yelling “tag” and throwing the ball down to second base for a tag out(because the force at second base was removed when the first baseman recorded the force out at first base).
With runners on first and second base and less than two outs, there aren’t too many scenarios in which the first baseman would throw the ball across the diamond to third base for a force out. It’s a very difficult play to make with a very low percentage rate of success. With that said, it would have to be a special circumstance for the first baseman to try for a force out at third base. A better option is for the first baseman to simply start a double play on the right side of the infield as was discussed just previously. This obviously allows the runner on second to advance to third unchallenged. However, the trade-off is a potential double play and a much higher success rate for at least recording a single out.
Again and with less than two outs, the first baseman can elect to ignore the runner on third and start a double play on the right side of the infield. If the runner on third is a priority(because it’s the game-winning run for example) then the first baseman may elect to ignore the double play and throw the ball home if the runner is trying to score. In yet another scenario, the first baseman could take the force out at first base and then throw home to attempt the tag out at the plate. This could happen if the batted ball draws the first baseman close enough to first base.
With runners on second and third base and less than two outs, the first baseman can elect to take the force out at first base or if the runner on third is a priority then throw the ball home for the tag out at the plate if the runner is trying to score. Again, the first baseman can take the force out at first base and then still attempt to throw the runner out at the plate. This could happen if the batted ball draws the first baseman close enough to first base.
With a runner on second base and less than two outs, the first baseman, almost 100% of the time, will take the force out at first base and allow the runner to advance unchallenged from second to third base. There are rare circumstances in which the first baseman, after recording the out at first base, could attempt to throw across the diamond for a tag out at third base. However, this is a very difficult play for a Little Leaguer to make.
With a runner on third base and less than two outs, the first baseman can elect to take the force out at first base or if the runner on third is a priority then make the throw home. Again, the first baseman could take the force out at first and then still make a throw home to attempt a tag out at the plate. This could happen if the batted ball draws the first baseman close enough to first base.
There several different options for the first baseman when the bases are loaded which depend on the score and number of outs. With no outs, the first baseman should just throw the ball home for the force out. With one out, the first baseman could start a double play on the right side of the infield instead of throwing home. However, if the double play is not turned then the run will score and the inning continues. With two outs, the first baseman will want to take the easy force out at first base to end the inning.
The first baseman must be ready to make a play on a pop-up near the pitcher’s mound. In MLB, pitchers rarely call for the pop-up and usually allow one of the infielders to take it for them. This is because most pitchers are not great fielders. At the Little League level, a team’s best athletes might be the pitchers( who also play other positions). However, the first baseman should still be prepared to take a pop-up near the pitcher’s mound just in case.
After a base hit the first baseman will not want to stray too far away from the base in case a greedy baserunner has to try to come back to first base. A batter that slams an extra base hit will round first base on their way to second and possibly further. It will be the first baseman’s responsibility to make sure the runner touches first base. If the runner doesn’t touch the base then it will be the first baseman’s job to point this out before the delivery of the next pitch so a proper appeal can be made. What could be more satisfying than a home run being erased due to the alertness of the first baseman? The first baseman will also check to see if the base runner on first base properly tags up on a fly ball.
The first baseman will be the cutoff for plays going home from center and right field.
Second baseman is a lot harder to play than given credit for because shortstop is considered the most challenging infield position. However, the second baseman has to make a lot of decisions on the field and also needs some range as well. Let’s take a look at some Little League Coaching Tips for Situational Responsibilities of the Second Baseman.
With a runner on first, the second baseman will throw to first for the out.
The second baseman will have to slide over to cover first base (to complete a possible double play) if the ball is hit to the first baseman away from the first base bag.
On a ball hit to the left side (shortstop or third baseman) then the second baseman will have to slide over to cover second on an attempted force play.
With two outs and runners on first and second, the second baseman will throw over to first base for the final out.
On a hit to the right of the second baseman and towards the middle, the second baseman should go for the force at second to end the inning. With less than two outs, the second baseman should start a double play by throwing over to second.
On a ball hit to the second baseman’s left, then they may elect to throw to first for the out.
The second baseman will usually not attempt to force out the runner going from second to third. This would be a risky and unconventional play.
The second baseman will have to slide over to cover first base if the ball is hit to the first baseman away from the first base bag. On a ball hit to the left side of the field, then the second baseman will have to slide over to second for an attempted force play.
With two outs and runners on first and third base, the second baseman will throw to first base for the final out.
When fielding a ball towards second base, then the proper play would become the force at second. With one out, the second baseman should start a double play by throwing over to second.
On a hit to the second baseman’s left, then they may elect to take the out at first. With no outs, the second baseman can start a double play or throw over to first if the ball is hit to their left.The second baseman will have to slide over to cover first base if the ball is hit to the first baseman away from the first base bag.
If the ball is hit to the left side of the field, then the second baseman will have to slide over to second for an attempted force play.
If the runner on third base is the game-winning run, then the second baseman should look the runner on third back and only consider making a very easy play (very short throws). If the runner on third is going on contact (and they just might do that), then the second baseman will have to throw home.
With two outs and runners on second and third, the second baseman will simply throw to first for the out. With less than two outs, the second baseman should look the runner on third back before throwing over to first for the out.If the ball is hit to the left side of the field, then the second baseman may have to slide over to second for an attempted play due to a possible base running error. If the runner on third base is the game-winning run, then the second baseman should look the runner on third back and only consider making a very easy play (very short throws). However, if the runner on third is going on contact (and they just might do that) then obviously the second baseman will have to throw home.
With two outs and a runner on second, the second baseman will throw over to first for the final out.
With one out, the second baseman should look the runner on second back and throw to first for the second out. With no outs, the second baseman can look the runner on second back and then throw to first for the out. The second baseman could also make a fake throw to first and attempt to pick the runner off of second or start a run down. If the fake or look back doesn’t draw the runner off second base, then they can still throw over to first to record the out.
If the runner on second goes on contact (which they should), the second baseman should ignore the runner and throw over to first for the out. Throwing across the field would be too risky.
On a ball hit to the left side of the field, then the second baseman may have to slide over to second for an attempted play due to a possible baserunning error.
With two outs and a runner on third, the second baseman will throw over to first for the final out. With less than two outs, the second baseman should look the runner on third back before throwing over to first for the out.If the runner on third base is the game-winning run, then the second baseman should look the runner on third back and only consider making a very easy play (very short throws). However, if the runner on third is going on contact (and they just might do that) then obviously the second baseman will have to throw home.
With two outs and bases loaded, the second baseman will be at normal depth and will throw to first for the final out. With one out, the second baseman can play at regular depth and play for an inning-ending double play. At the Little League level, this is a risky play if the intent is to prevent the run from scoring. The other option with one out is for the second baseman to play in on the infield grass with the play being at the plate. With no outs, the second baseman has to play in on the grass, and the play is at the plate.The second baseman will have to slide over to cover first base if the ball is hit to the first baseman away from the first base bag. On ball hit to the left side of the field, then the second baseman will have to slide over to second for an attempted play there.
The second baseman will be the cutoff man on balls hit from right field over to right center field. The second baseman will cover second base on balls hit from left field over to center.
The second baseman will back up the shortstop at second base when a runner on first attempts to steal second. The second baseman will also back up the shortstop at second in a force out situation when balls are hit back at the pitcher. Here’s how to properly catch the ball and tag the runner on a steal to 2nd base.
The second baseman must be ready to make a play on a pop-up near the pitcher’s mound. In MLB, pitchers rarely call for the pop-up and usually allow one of the infielders to take it for them. This is because most pitchers are not great fielders. At the Little League level, a team’s best athletes might be the pitchers( who also play other positions). However, the second baseman should still be prepared to take a pop-up near the pitcher’s mound just in case. A pop behind the first baseman is the second baseman’s ball if they call for it and they should most of the time. The reason is that the second baseman will have a better angle on most pop-ups behind the first base bag.
Shortstop is one of the most difficult positions to learn and play at the Little League level. There is a lot of decision-making at the position not to mention the fact that a shortstop needs a great deal of range to be able to cover the assigned area properly. Let’s take a look at some Little League Coaching Tips for Situational Responsibilities of the Shortstop.
With a runner on first base, the shortstop will usually throw over to second to force the runner for the out. If the shortstop bobbles the ball then they may have to throw over to first for the out. If the ball is hit to the right side (second baseman or first baseman) then the shortstop will have to slide over to cover second for an attempted play there.
With two outs and runners on first and second, the shortstop can throw to third or second to record the final out. The easiest play is usually to second unless the ball is hit to the shortstops right in the “hole” which would then make the easiest play to third base. The shortstop will usually not throw over to first base in this situation (a rushed throw to first could allow the runner from second to score). With one out, the shortstop could choose to force out the lead runner at third or begin a double play by throwing over to second. However, poor execution of the double play could allow the runner from second to score. With no outs, the shortstop should force out the lead runner at third. Attempting a double play in this situation is probably too risky. *A ball hit up the middle that the shortstop can field will make the proper play at second which could turn into a double play. If the ball is hit to the right side of the field then the shortstop will have to slide over to second for an attempted play there.
With two outs and runners on first and third, the shortstop will want to throw over to second for the final out. With one out, the shortstop will want to start a double play by throwing over to second base. With no outs, the shortstop should look back the runner on third before throwing over to second for the force out. The look back will probably eliminate the chance of a double play. The shortstop can also choose to try to trick the runner on third with a fake throw to second base. If the look back or fake throw draws the runner from third base then the shortstop can throw over to third base for the pick off or to start a run down. *A ball hit up the middle that the shortstop can field will make the proper play at second which could turn into a double play. If the ball is hit to the right side of the field then the shortstop will have to slide over to second for an attempted play there.If the runner on third base is the game winning run then the shortstop may have to consider “eating” the ball to prevent that run from scoring.
With two outs and runners on second and third base, the shortstop will want to ignore the runners and simply throw to first base for the final out. With less than two outs, the shortstop can look back the runner on third base or try the fake throw to first base before throwing over to first base. If the look back or fake throw draws the runner off third base then the shortstop can throw over to third for the pick off or the start of a rundown. The shortstop will all but ignore the runner on second base unless the shortstop has a chance to tag the runner quickly possibly due to a base running error.If the ball is hit to the right side of the field then the shortstop still might have to slide over to second for an attempted tag play there (runner attempting to return to second base due to a possible base running error).
If the runner on third base is the game winning run then the shortstop may have to consider “eating” the ball to prevent that run from scoring.
With two outs and a runner on second, the shortstop will want to ignore the runner and simply throw to first base for the final out. With less than two outs, the shortstop can look back the runner on second base or try the fake throw to first base before throwing over to first. If the look back or fake throw draws the runner off second base then the shortstop can throw over to second(second baseman covering) for the pick off or to start a rundown. If the ball is hit to the right side of the field then the shortstop still might have to slide over to second for an attempted tag play there (runner attempting to return to second base due to a possible base running error).
With two outs and a runner on third base, the shortstop will want to ignore the runners and simply throw to first base for the final out. With less than two outs, the shortstop can look back the runner on third base or try the fake throw to first base before throwing over to first. If the look back or fake throw draws the runner off third base then the shortstop can throw over to third for the pick off or the start of a rundown. If the runner on third base is the game winning run then the shortstop may have to consider “eating” the ball to prevent that run from scoring.
With two outs and bases loaded, the shortstop should be playing at regular depth and can force the runner out at second or third for the final out. With one out, the shortstop can play at regular depth and play for an inning-ending double play. At the Little League level, this is a risky play if the intent is to prevent the run from scoring. The other option with one out is for the shortstop to play in on the infield grass with the play being at the plate. With no outs, the shortstop has to play in on the grass and the play is at the plate. If the ball is hit to the right side of the field then the shortstop will have to slide over to second for an attempted play there.
The shortstop will be the cutoff man on balls hit from left field over to center field. The shortstop will cover second base on balls hit from right field over to right center.
The shortstop will cover second base when a runner on first attempts to steal second. The shortstop will also cover second in a force out situation when balls are hit back at the pitcher.
The shortstop must be ready to make a play on a pop-up near the pitcher’s mound. In MLB, pitchers rarely call for the pop-up and usually allow one of the infielders to take it for them. This is because most pitchers are not great fielders. At the Little League level, a team’s best athletes might be the pitchers( who also play other positions). However, the shortstop should still be prepared to take a pop-up near the pitcher’s mound just in case. A pop behind the third baseman is actually the shortstop’s ball if they call for it and they should most of the time. The reason is that the shortstop will actually have a better angle on most pop ups behind the third base bag.
This is a key skill at shortstop and involves the pitchers attention as well. The shortstop should try and be in position at the time of the pitcher throwing the ball to home plate. That’s going to require communication from the pitcher and possibly 2nd baseman too. All of our jobs as defender’s is to not allow this runner at 2nd to make it to 3rd base. Make noise w/ your glove, talk to your pitcher and make sure he’s not throwing to the batter before you are able to get back into your position and get ready for a ball in play.
Third base is not commonly referred to as the “hot corner” without good reason. Some of the hardest hit balls make their way down the third base line where the third baseman awaits to make a play a lot of times out of pure self-preservation. However, sometimes it is taken for granted that there isn’t a lot of decision making that goes on at third base when in reality there is quite a bit for especially a young third baseman to think about. Let’s take a look at some Little League Coaching Tips for Situational Responsibilities of the Third Baseman.
The third baseman will have two choices if the ball is hit to them at third base. If they come up with the ball clean then the logical play will be to turn and throw to second base to start a double play. If they bobble the ball then they make not have time to turn to throw over to second base. After the bobble, the third baseman’s best bet may be to either try to throw to first base or “eat” the ball. If the third baseman has to step or run in to field a batted ball then they may only have a play at first base. The reason being is that it may be too difficult to turn around and now make a very long throw to get the runner at second base. The safer play in this instance would be to get the out at first base.
With two outs and runners on first and second base, the third baseman will want to step on third base for the final out. If the third baseman has to step or run in to field a batted ball then they should throw to first base for the final out. With less than two outs, the third baseman will have two options. They can step on third base and throw over to second base to complete a double play or they can step on third base and throw over to first base to complete a double play. I have found through experience that generally the easier of the two plays is to step on third base and throw over to first base to complete a double play. It’s also a safer play because it does not involve a timing throw in which the third baseman may have to anticipate the arrival of the second baseman covering second base. If the third baseman has to step or run in to field a batted ball then, unfortunately, they may have to settle for only an out at first base.
With two outs and runners on first and third base, the third baseman will want to ignore the runner on third base and throw to first base for the final out. If the third baseman has to step or run in to field a batted ball then they should simply throw over to first base for the final out. With less than two outs, the third baseman can choose (especially if there is one out) to totally ignore the runner on third and throw to second base to start a double play. The third baseman can also choose to look back the runner on third before doing anything. However, if they choose to look the runner back then they are almost certainly giving up on the double play and the safe play will be to follow with a throw to first base. The third baseman can also choose to try to trick the runner on third with a fake throw to first base. Again, this all but cancels out the chance of a double play and the third baseman should follow the trick play with a throw to first base. If the look back or fake throw draws the runner from third base then the third baseman can start a rundown. If the runner on third base is the game-winning run then the third baseman may have to consider “eating” the ball to prevent that run from scoring. *Any trick play is a calculated risk by the fielder.
With two outs and runners on second and third base, the third baseman will want to ignore the runners and throw to first base for the final out. With less than two outs, the third baseman can look back the runner on third base or try the fake throw to first base before throwing over to first base. If the look back or fake throw draws the runner off of third base, then the third baseman can start a rundown. The third baseman will all but ignore the runner on second base. If the runner on third base is the game-winning run then the third baseman may have to consider “eating” the ball to prevent that run from scoring.
With two outs and a runner on second base, the third baseman will want to ignore the runner on second base and throw to first base for the final out. With less than two outs, the third baseman needs to consider the possibility of a bunt. On a ground ball, the third baseman can look back the runner at second base or try the fake throw to first base before throwing over to first base. If the look back or fake throw draws the runner off second base, then the third baseman can start a rundown.
With two outs and a runner on third base, the third baseman will want to ignore the runner on third base and simply throw to first base for the final out. With less than two outs, the third baseman can look back the runner at third base or try the fake throw to first base before throwing over to first base. If the look back or fake throw draws the runner off of third base, then the third baseman can start a rundown. If the runner on third base is the game-winning run then the third baseman may have to consider “eating” the ball to prevent that run from scoring.
With two outs and bases loaded, the third baseman should be playing at regular depth and should be able to simply step on third base for the final out. If the batted ball draws the third baseman away from third base then they could throw to either second base or first base for the final out. They could also choose to throw home for the final out depending on the difficulty of the play. If the third baseman has to step or run in for a batted ball then they should throw home for the final out. With less than two outs, if the batted ball takes the third baseman to third base then they could step on third for an out and then throw over to second base to start a double or triple play! With less than two outs, if the batted ball takes the third baseman to third base then they could also step on third for an out and then throw home for a tag out ( the force would be off after making the out at third base). If the batted ball takes the third baseman away from third, they could start a double play by throwing over to second base. However, this would be conceding the run. If the third baseman has to step or run in for a batted ball then they should throw home for an out and then it would be up to the catcher to make a decision to throw or “eat” the ball. If the runner on third base is the game-winning run then the third baseman will have to throw home no matter the situation.
The third baseman must be ready to make a play on a pop up near the pitcher’s mound. In MLB, pitchers rarely call for the pop-up and usually allow one of the infielders to take it for them. This is because most pitchers are not great fielders. At the Little League level, a team’s best athletes might be the pitchers( who also play other positions). However, the third baseman should still be prepared to take a pop up near the pitcher’s mound just in case.
After a base hit the third baseman will be responsible for covering third base if the defense decides that the proper play is trying to get the runner out attempting to advance to third base. If the play is not at third base then the third baseman will still not want to stray too far away from third base in case a secondary play develops. For example, the catcher sees a greedy base runner trying to advance to the third base after a play at the plate. It will also be the third baseman’s responsibility to make sure an advancing runner touches third base. If the runner doesn’t touch the base then it will be the third baseman’s job to point this out before the delivery of the next pitch so a proper appeal can be made. The third baseman will also check to see if the base runner on third base properly tags up on a fly ball.
The third baseman will be the cutoff for plays going home from left field.
Playing the outfield is not just about catching an occasional fly ball. The outfielders must know where the ball needs to go based on situation and then deliver the ball to that spot quickly and accurately. Let’s take a look at some Little League Coaching Tips for Situational Responsibilities of the Outfielders.
After a base hit to the outfield with bases empty, the outfielder will want to quickly hit the cut off. An outfielder might be tempted to make a throw straight to second base or even throw behind the runner if they round first aggressively. However, both are ill advised decisions because a bad throw and a smart base runner is a recipe for disaster.
After a base hit to the outfield with a runner on first, provided the runner on first doesn’t try to advance to third then the outfielders will just simply hit the cutoff. If the runner on first does attempt to advance to third then there are a couple of options. The outfielder can attempt to throw the runner out or simply hit the cutoff. Hitting the cutoff will keep the runners at first & third while a throw to attempt to get the runner at third could result in runners at both second & third.It is very important to keep force plays intact and especially with less than two outs. With two outs the outfielder could make a judgment call if they feel they can throw out the advancing runner for the final out. With less than two outs and after catching a fly ball, the outfielder can take a crack at throwing out the runner if they tag up and attempt to advance to second base.
After a base hit to the outfield with runners on first & second, provided the runners don’t try to advance to then the outfielders will just simply hit the cutoff. If the runners attempt to advance then there are a few options. The outfielders could still just hit the cutoff which would allow a run to score but keep runners at first & third instead of second and third. The outfielders could also attempt to throw a runner out at either third or home. Again, it is very important to keep force plays intact and especially with less than two outs. With two outs the outfielder could make a judgment call if they feel they can throw out the advancing runner for the final out. With no outs and after catching a fly ball, the outfielder could let the runner advance from second to third which would then allow them to keep the runner on first base. With one out, the outfielder could gamble and try to throw out the runner advancing to third base to record an inning ending double play.
After a base hit to the outfield with runners on first & third, provided the runners don’t try to advance then the outfielders will just simply hit the cutoff. The run will score no matter what and this would keep runners at first & third instead of second & third. If the runner on first attempts to advance to third then there are a couple of options. The outfielder can attempt to throw the runner out or simply hit the cutoff. Remember, it is very important to keep force plays intact and especially with less than two outs. With two outs the outfielder could make a judgment call if they feel they can throw out the advancing runner for the final out. With no outs and after catching a fly ball, the outfielder could let the runner score from third which would then allow them to keep the runner on first base. With one out, the outfielder could gamble and try to throw out the runner attempting to score to record an inning ending double play. With less than two outs, if the runner on third is the winning run then the outfield should play shallow because a deep fly ball would win the game anyway. Playing shallow gives the outfield the best possible chance of throwing the runner out at home.
After a base hit to the outfield with runners on second & third, provided the runners don’t try to advance then the outfielders will just simply hit the cutoff. The run will score no matter what and this would keep runners at first & third instead of second & third. If the runner on second attempts to score then there are a couple of options. The outfielder can attempt to throw the runner out or simply hit the cutoff. Remember, it is very important to keep force plays intact and especially with less than two outs. With two outs the outfielder could make a judgment call if they feel they can throw out the advancing runner for the final out. With no outs and after catching a fly ball, the outfielder could let the runner score from third which would then allow them to keep the runner on second base. With one out, the outfielder could gamble and try to throw out the runner attempting to score to record an inning ending double play. If both runners attempt to advance after tagging up then it will be up to the outfielder to make a decision on who to go after. With less than two outs, if the runner on third is the winning run then the outfield should play shallow because a deep fly ball would win the game anyway. Playing shallow gives the outfield the best possible chance of throwing the runner out at home.
After a base hit to the outfield with a runner on second , provided the runners don’t try to advance then the outfielders will just simply hit the cutoff. If the runner on second attempts to score then there are a couple of options. The outfielder can attempt to throw the runner out or simply hit the cutoff. Remember, it is very important to keep force plays intact and especially with less than two outs. With two outs the outfielder could make a judgment call if they feel they can throw out the advancing runner for the final out. With less than two outs and after catching a fly ball, the outfielder can take a crack at throwing out the runner if they tag up and attempt to advance to third base.
After a base hit to the outfield with a runner on third, the outfielder will want to quickly hit the cut off. With less than two outs and after catching a fly ball, the outfielder can take a crack at throwing out the runner if they tag up and attempt to score. With less than two outs, if the runner on third is the winning run then the outfield should play shallow because a deep fly ball would win the game anyway. Playing shallow gives the outfield the best possible chance of throwing the runner out at home.
After a base hit to the outfield with bases loaded, the outfielders could just hit the cutoff which would allow a run or two to score but keep runners at first & second instead of second and third. The outfielders could also attempt to throw a runner out at either third or home. Again, it is very important to keep force plays intact and especially with less than two outs. With two outs the outfielder could make a judgment call if they feel they can throw out the advancing runner for the final out. With no outs and after catching a fly ball, the outfielder could let the runner score from third which would then allow them try to keep the runners on first & second. With one out, the outfielder could gamble and try to throw out the advancing runner to record an inning ending double play. If both runners on second & third attempt to advance after tagging up then it will be up to the outfielder to make a decision on who to go after. With less than two outs, if the runner on third is the winning run then the outfield should play shallow because a deep fly ball would win the game anyway. Playing shallow gives the outfield the best possible chance of throwing the runner out at home.
Outfielders must always be prepared to move on balls even when they are hit at infielders. If the ball ends up in the outfield then the outfielder must react accordingly and make a throw based on situations that have been discussed.
Outfielders must back up other outfielders. The outfielder must be prepared to make a play on a ball that is not necessarily “their ball.” The outfielder must react accordingly and make a throw based on situations that have been discussed.
