Please review information.
Having a strong pregame plan is essential. Although we do not have a mandated format, it is suggested to use something similar to the below plan. However, the most important thing is to have a plan.
Have the lineup prepared prior to arrival. There will be plenty of time to make needed adjustments if someone is injured or doesn’t show.
Maximize your allotted time. Get the players there 1-1.5 hours before start based on time of year, which game and what you want to accomplish. Think of this time as an opportunity to “practice”
HITTING
At the start of the season, provide team a set of 3-4 hitting drills that focus on balance and hand path. They complete these drills before any game. Each drill gets 5-7 swings.
Then front toss – 5-7 swings
Then live – 2 rounds of 5-8 swings – work pull, middle and backside
*** NOTE – getting a player or 2 early before the group is a great opportunity to provide some help/instruction etc for guys struggling. This tends to be as much about the mental side as it is physical and certainly an opportunity to express your confidence in him.
Be prepared! Bring wiffle balls to use in the event there are no cages available. Brining a couple tees will also help pregame hitting go smoother.
OFF FIELD
Stretch/arm bands/discussion
We often have time before we can get on field or in between games – use this time to create 10-15 minute learning opportunities
- Drawing and discussion of defense and positioning
- Drawing and discussion on 1st and 3rds, bunt defense, cut situations etc
- Walk throughs of bunt defense, 1st and 3rds, safety squeeze, cut situations
ON FIELD
Throwing
One knee
standing iso (feet shoulder width apart and stationary)
feet move – shuffle and throw
distance – 60, 90, 120 etc — Max is based on age group as well as what game of the day it is
Quality Infield/Outfield Pregame
There are many different ways to structure an infield/outfield (a.k.a.
the “in & out”). Each coach adds their own twist and personal touch to
a pregame that makes it unique to the team. The goals for every
infield/outfield, however, should stay the same.
- Allow defensive players their final opportunity for “warm up”.
The in & out should be the most game-like preparation during
pre-game.- This typically has to be completed on the outfield. - Give players a chance to see how the field is playing on that day.
- Allow scouts, if applicable, to see arm strength, footwork, and fielding ability.
- Provide an opportunity for players to improve. Although it is not
a practice, there will be an opportunity to coach and players will
still get a number of repetitions during in & out’s over an entire
year. - The in & out is the last piece of a quality pre-game routine and
should put players into the proper mental frame of mind to
compete. Try to create some energy and tempo that can carry
into the game. - Start player communication prior to the first ball being hit.
Overview of Basic Outfield:
-2 throws to second
-2 throws to third
-2 throws home
Detailed Breakdown of Outfield:
-Throws to 2nd: Hit a ground ball in the gaps or down the line to simulate a
“single, possible double situation”. Outfielders will take aggressive routes,
cut the ball off and throw the ball to second without using a cut.
-Throws to 3rd: Avoid hitting regular depth fly balls to the left fielder as a
runner would never tag at second in this situation. All ground balls to the left
fielder should be in the left-center gap to simulate a batted ball that would
allow a runner to move from first to third.
-Throws to home: Hit one ground ball where the outfielder hits the cut off
(catcher has the option to call a “cut 2” and change the direction of the ball).
The second ball to the outfield can be a fly ball where outfielders “let it fly”
and attempt to throw the runner out. This would simulate a sac fly situation
with only a runner on third. With no other runners attempting to advance,
outfielders can let it loose and try to throw the runner out without having to
hit a cut off.
General Tips for Outfield:
-Catchers in full gear including helmets/mask. All tags and throws in a game
are made with the helmet/mask on.
-To get the outfielders started quickly, hit the first ground ball to the closest
outfielder (i.e. if you are in the first base dugout, hit the first ground ball to
the right fielder).
-When hitting to outfielders, only give them one ball per round. Never hit
one player back-to-back balls. The only time you might consider hitting
back-to-back balls to one player is if you only have one player at each middle
infield position and they are slow changing their relay positions as you move
to different fields.
-Never hit fly balls when making throws to second base as this situation will
very rarely, if ever, occur during a game.
-Encourage outfielders to attack the ball and make firm throws to the cut off
(except on their throws to second and their last throw to the plate).
-All throws to second will then be relayed to the third baseman after
simulating a tag. The third baseman will then relay the ball to a player who
is receiving for the coach.
-While outfielders are making throws to second and third base, the catcher
will be working on fielding bunts and dropped third strikes and throwing to
first base.
-All players receiving a throw at a base will simulate a tag. Errant throws
should be knocked down and kept in front.
-Emphasize CLEAR COMMUNICATION on all relays.
Overview of basic infield:
-Throw around the horn
-Infield in, throw to the plate
-Throw to first (ball right at fielder)
-Throw to first (ball on forehand), receive a throw from catcher
-Double play (ball right at fielder)
-Double play (ball on forehand), receive a throw from catcher
-Backhand throw to first
-Chopper and off
-Catcher pop
Detailed breakdown for infield:
-Around the horn: After receiving the last throw to the plate from the
outfielders, the catcher will throw the ball “around the horn” including all
infielders. Infielders will be playing in on the edge of the grass.
-Infield in, throw to home: Catcher will finish the double play to first base on
the left side of the infield and will lay a tag when receiving throws from the
right side of the infield.
-Throw to 1st (no throws from catcher): Focus on good footwork. Try to hit
fielders firm, clean hops. First baseman will field a bunt and throw to third
base to get a lead runner. Catcher will field a bunt in front of the plate and
throw to first. After receiving the ball from the catcher, the first baseman
will throw the ball around to give catcher enough time to reset behind the
plate.
-Throw to 1st (throw from catcher): Hit the ground ball to the infielders
forehand and they will make a play to first. After making the throw to first
base, the infielder will go back to their base to receive a throw from the
catcher (except 1st baseman). After receiving each throw, the first baseman
will try to throw a strike to the catcher who will be waiting behind the plate in
their crouch. If feeding the catcher with a strike is too difficult for your first
baseman, have the catcher receive the ball standing. After receiving the ball
the catcher will keep the ball in their glove, set up in their crouch and make a
throw to the appropriate base. Many catchers start in their crouch with the
baseball in their hand. Without having to exchange the ball, their pop times
are much quicker than they would normally be. Coaches should stand in the
batters box while catchers make their throws to simulate game situations.
First basemen will again field a bunt and throw to third base. Catchers will
get a ball in foul territory (dropped third strike) and make a play to first.
After receiving the throw from the catcher, the first baseman will throw the
ball around to give the catcher enough time to reset. No throws back to first
base.
-Double play (ball right at fielder): Focus on good feeds. First baseman will
play behind the runner and turn the double play as if there are runners at
first and second. Catcher will field a ball close to the plate and make a throw
to second.
-Double play (ball on the forehand) with throw back to bag: Again, focus on
good feeds and quick turns. Ensure that the defense gets the lead out.
When hitting the ground ball to the first baseman, they will start holding the
runner. All players will go back to their bag to receive a throw from the
catcher as above. No throws back to first base. Catcher will field a ball close
to the plate and make a throw to second base.
-Backhand with throw to first: All infielders will start deep. Hit a ball that
challenges them on their backhand. Allow infielders to “show off” their arm
strength. Hit each infielder a ball to the backhand side and do not hit the
backhand and slow roller back to back.
-Slow roller: Each player will get a slow roller that they will field and make a
play to first. After making the throw to first they will hustle off to the
dugout. First baseman makes throw to the plate or you can have second
baseman stay at first base to receive throw. Ensure that infielders start at
regular depth and field the ball just past the mound. Middle infielders should
not field a ball at or in front of the mound!
-Catchers pop: A well executed catchers pop will finish your infield/outfield
with style. Coaches should only get one shot at the catcher pop.
General Guidelines for Infield:
-Try to hit crisp, long hops so infielders can find their rhythm. Infielders
should be able to get a feel for the speed of the infield.
-Hit the next ball as the last play is finishing to keep the tempo up
throughout the infield.
-Complete your entire infield/outfield in 5-10 minutes.
-Have your catcher take extra baseballs in his pockets in case of errant
throws.
With remaining time, all players should complete some drill work.
IF – pick sets — provide them a routine as a minimum to do prior to each game
OF – drop steps, rolls — this can start while the IF is doing their in & out. provide them a routine as a minimum to do before start of each game
C – bare hand receive, footwork drills, blocking drills
PITCHERS
After completion of the pitchers stretch and arm band routine, he should long toss. Once he gets to the bullpen, the pitcher should do a predetermined set of drills such as 5 load and go – no release of backside, 5 load and go – release backside. Following that, he should start his pitching warm up. A suggested plan is to throw no more than 25-30 pitches prior to the start of the game. Begin with 10 fastballs with the catcher set up on each side of the plate for 5 pitches. This allows the pitcher to work into good mechanics and competitive pitches with a focus on location. After this, complete 3-4 sets of 2 and 1 — 2 off speed and 1 fastball and finishing with 2-3 more fastballs. This is a base plan that can be adapted based on the age group and individual pitchers. Coaches should be in tune with each player to know if more or less is needed to prepare for the start of the game.
Choosing the right pitcher(s), balancing pitch counts, considering the players safety/arm care, knowing when to pull/replace a pitcher, lack of depth, scouts present to see a pitcher as well as providing opportunities to many pitchers make this Pitching management the most challenging task for a youth baseball coach. However, there are some basics that can help minimize these challenges.
Pitch Count Guidelines
Research has shown that pitch counts are the most accurate and effective means of limiting pitchers from the likelihood of pitching with fatigue. Along with pitch count and rest recommendations, there are a few general guidelines to help keep pitchers healthy. These general guidelines cover all ages, and they include:
- Properly warming up before pitching. (see below suggested warmup)
- Avoid playing for multiple teams at the same time and pitching in multiple games on the same day.
- Playing other sports during the course of the year to allow your arm time to rest.
- Taking at least 4 months off from throwing each year with at least 2 to 3 of those months being continuous.
To assist in the management and safety of the pitchers, we follow the pitch smart guidelines. See the required rest recommendations per Pitch Smart below.
Pitch Smart provides a valuable resource for ways in which you can work to prevent arm injuries. To further aim to prevent arm injuries, remember these key tips for safe pitching practices:
- Ask your pitchers when they last threw, and how much they threw in that outing.
- Pay close attention to pitchers as they are warming up. If a pitcher looks as if their arm is sore, be sure to talk to the pitcher and decide if they are unable to compete that day.
- If a pitcher verbalizes that their is hurting, take them out of the game to rest.
- If you notice a pitcher grabbing their elbow or shoulder or favoring their arm in any way while on the mound, call timeout to check on the pitcher and take them out of the game to rest.
- Minimize the amount of time pitchers spend playing catcher immediately before and after pitching appearances.
- If a significant drop in velocity is seen, remove them from pitching.
Suggested pre game pitcher warm up
High school players and some youth often have an individual specific warm up routine. As a coach you will need to know what that routine and process is so that you can plan accordingly.
In general, we suggest something like this as the actual throwing/pitching warm up — Start with a short drill set of 5 load n go with and without release followed by a suggested 20-25 pitch warm up. 10 FB with 5 in and 5 out, then 2 and 1 – 2 off speed /1 FB 3-4 sets, then let him finish with a couple fb or work with him on what you want to do. Note: I do not think more than 25-30 pitches are necessary for most pitchers. Of course, a pitcher in relief there will likely not be the time needed to complete the above process. Situational changes may affect the amount of time/warmup available.
Planning before the start of the game will help minimize the situation.
Setting Expectations for your team/staff
- Throwing strikes
- Compete!!!
- minimizing walks — I set limits per pitcher and per staff/game
- Make adjustments
- Throwing pitchers… who don’t pitch
- Taking chances/knowing ahead of time/early season
- Strategy/when
- Mound visits
- For pitchers to refocus and assist with physical or mental adjustmentsFor the team to refocus and reset them mentally
- Perception to parents/team that you care
- Knowing your opponent/strategy
- Quick pull of starter (under 20 pitches) to save Best match ups
- Knowing your opponent will often help with the selection of which and what type of pitcher you should throw
- Use of multiple pitchers
- Be prepared
- Have a plan
- Have a back up plan
- Have a back up to the back up plan
1st and 3rd Situations
First and Third – Throw Through to Second
Normally you will call this play when you have a catcher that is capable of throwing out the runner stealing second and that potential run is more critical than the runner at third, meaning it’s late in the game and you’re up by 2 or more runs or if the run is not relevant due to score. If you have a catcher that lacks arm strength, then this play may end up with a runner at second and a run scored.
When throwing through to second, your first goal is to try and get the runner stealing second.
Responsibilities
Catcher
As the catcher comes up to throw to second, he must pick up the runner at third. The general rule is, if you see his shoulders squared towards you, throw to third. If he’s not coming then make a good throw to second.
Third Baseman
the 3rd baseman will have to be ready for the snap throw from the catcher. Make sure the ball isn’t hit and then quickly cover the bag.
Pitcher
Same as on any steal, except there may be a return throw from the shortstop, so make sure you stay out of the way. You must be prepared to get involved in a rundown between first and second or home and third.
First Baseman
The first baseman must first hold the runner on first and then position yourself for a ball in play as the pitch is delivered.
Second Baseman
The second baseman’s responsibility is to move between the pitcher and 2nd base acting as if he will cut the ball if the guy at 3rd goes home. Be sure to stay a step or 2 out of the direct line of home and second base
Shortstop
The shortstop will be covering second base. Don’t worry about the runner at third and focus on receiving the ball and making the tag. Occasionally, the runner may stop and get in a rundown. His purpose is to keep a rundown going so the runner can score from third. It’s essential that you run as fast as you can at the runner and make him go back towards first hard. Your goal should be to run the runner back to first and either tag him or make one throw to the first baseman for the out.
Left Fielder
Back up third base.
Center Fielder
Back up second base.
Right Fielder
Back up first base.
First and Third – Throw To Third
Responsibilities
Catcher
This can be a good play when the runner on third is an aggressive baserunner. As the catcher catches the ball, he simply fires the ball to third instead of second. If the runner is trying to get a good jump from third and gets too far from the bag, it’s an easy out.
Third Baseman
The 3rd baseman will have to be ready for the snap throw from the catcher. Make sure the ball isn’t hit and then quickly cover the bag.
Pitcher
Same as on any steal so make sure the pitcher stays out of the way. The pitcher must be prepared to get involved in a rundown between home and third.
First Baseman
The first baseman must first hold the runner on first and then position himself for a ball in play as the pitch is delivered.
Second Baseman
The second baseman will cover the bag
Shortstop
The shortstop will move towards third base preparing to be involved in a possible rundown.
Left Fielder
Back up third base.
Center Fielder
Back up second base.
Right Fielder
Back up second base.
First and Third – Throw to Second Baseman
This can be an effective play at getting the lead runner, and doesn’t require a catcher with a strong arm.
Responsibilities
Catcher
As the catcher comes up to throw to second, he must pick up the runner at third. The general rule is, if you see his shoulders squared towards you, throw to third. If he’s not coming then make a good throw to second base as if we are trying to throw the runner out. The second baseman will make the decision to cut it or let it go through.
Third Baseman
The 3rd baseman will have to be ready for the snap throw from the catcher. Make sure the ball isn’t hit and then quickly cover the bag.
Pitcher
Same as on any steal, except there may be a return throw from the shortstop, so make sure you stay out of the way. He must be prepared to get involved in a rundown between first and second or home and third.
First Baseman
The first baseman must first hold the runner on first and then position yourself for a ball in play as the pitch is delivered. He must be prepared to get involved in a rundown between first and second or home and third.
Second Baseman
The second baseman’s responsibility is to move between the pitcher and 2nd base and will cut the ball if the guy at 3rd goes home. Be sure to stay a step out of the direct line of home and second base unless the runner at 3rd base takes off.
Shortstop
The shortstop will be covering second base. Don’t worry about the runner at third and focus on receiving the ball and making the tag. Once the tag is placed, pop up and attention goes to the runner at third base
Occasionally, the runner may stop and get in a rundown.
Left Fielder
Back up third base.
Center Fielder
Back up second base.
Right Fielder
Back up first base.
Click here for examples of Defensive strategies
With our evaluation and team placement system, early in the season, we are put in a position as a head coach/manager to develop a line up and rotation of players with only a short window to evaluate. The expectation is to compete well and win. However, we often don’t know the capabilities of the players at the start of the season. Before the first tournament, it is strongly suggested that the following be used to assist us in better preparing the initial line-ups.
- Use our registration to determine what the parents and players perceive as their primary and secondary positions as well as identify what level they played at in the prior year
- Speak with the manager and/or head coach from prior fall or summer
- Look at last years GC or PG stats
- Look in sportsboard for testing and evaluation numbers as well as the players videos
- Prepare before arriving at the ballpark – planned line up and rotations – both pitching and substitutes for at least the pool games helps with rotations and pitching. Of course minor changes are often made at the park based on variables you face. Using a spreadsheet with each inning planned is a great way to prepare.
As the season progresses, a coach should evaluate the players objectively and be willing to adjust or make changes to the lineup based on performance, opponent, developmental goals for the players and team. Part of this process can include other coaches and the managers opinion, the players stats and what you have seen up to that point.
Looking at the season in thirds can help with determining lineups and rotations. The first third can be looked at as opportunities for players to earn position play, order in batting line up, pitching ability, and overall strengths.
The second third can be used to hone in on what positions a player best help the team be successful and might be the best long term position for the player, while still providing some opportunity to the players perceived primary position. More emphasis on winning becomes evident but still within the confines of our philosophies for play time.
The final third of the season should be used to but your team in the best position to win games. We will still do this within our philosophies but less opportunities occur for the substitutes. Although we should always be looking for opportunities/situations to help a player develop and be successful.
GENERAL THOUGHTS ON MANAGING LINE-UPS
Below are some helpful suggestions to assist you to become a strong coach in managing line ups.
- Prepare, Prepare, Prepare!! Have a plan!! This area takes effort on our part as a coach. This is not an area to “wing it”
- All players should get into a game with the opportunity to get an AB and play 2-3 innings defensively. Consideration of the level of team, type of tournament and timing in the season will affect this. At 15U and below, this should be a standard.
- Bat 10 in your line up – Use EH. At 15U and above, some DH may be also used. This is not recommended at the younger ages. The EH provides flexibility and assistance with pitchers. It is recommended that a player serve as an EH for no more than 2 innings at a time and tis EH position should be rotated between players throughout the tournament and season
- Track plate appearances to help balance some of discrepancy among some of players. Simple adjustments can help this — put a guy who is usually at bottom of lineup at 2 hole or move to 6 when typically at 8 or 9, look for opportunities against inferior competition, etc
- WHEN WE DISCUSS ROTATIONS POSITIONALLY, THIS DOES NOT MEAN EVERY INNING OR A DIFFERENT POSITION FOR PLAYERS EACH INNING! THIS IS NOT REC BALL
EXAMPLES OF MANAGING LINE UPS/SUBSTITUTIONS
Below is an example only. This can and is affected by age, number of players, pitcher only, injuries etc.In addition, the level of play, type of tournament may affect this also.
1ST 2-3 TOURNAMENTS
- THIS IS OPPORTUNITY FOR PLAYERS TO SHOW YOU HIS SKILL LEVEL AND PRODUCTIVITY IN HIS LISTED PRIMARY POSITION
- OPPORTUNITY FOR US TO SEE HIM IN POSITIONS THAT WE MAY THINK HE WILL EXCEL
- USE OF EH – 2 ON, 2 OFF IS PERFERRED METHOD
- EARLY SEASON ROTATIONS WILL BE SIMILAR TO THIS REGARDING LINE UP ( I USE 14 PLAYERS AS EXAMPLE)
- GAME 1
- 1-10 STARTERS (YOUR EH’S WILL NOT BE A SUB IN THIS GAME – THIS IS ALSO A GOOD TIME TO HAVE YOUR 2ND CATCHER GET A LITTLE SECONDARY POSITION WORK IN WHILE BEING AN EH THIS GAME)11,12,13,14 SUB IN FOR 1,2,3,4
- STARTERS ARE 1,2,3,4,11,12,13,14 (EH’S SHOULD NOT BE A SUB)SUBS ARE 5,6,7,8 COME IN FOR 9,10,?,? ( THE ? ARE OPTIONS BASED ON POSITION/PITCHING ETC)
- GAME 3
- STARTERS ARE 1-10 AND IF YOU PLANNED WELL, THIS SHOULD BE MOST OF YOUR BETTER PLAYERS AND BETTER PITCHERS
- SUBS 11,12,13,14 WHO NOW HAVE ROLES – PITCHER, 2ND CATCHER, NEXT PITCHER, SUB POSITIONALLY
- GAME 1
MIDDLE/LATER PARTS OF SEASON
- THEY HAVE OPPORTUNITIES AND NOW ITS TIME TO SOLIDFY MORE OF A STARTING LINE UP
- USE EH // BAT 10, 2 ON/2 OFF
- WHAT IF CATCHER? HIS SECONDARY – IMO IF STRONG DEFENSIVELY THEN GET HIM IN. IF NOT THEN HE EH’S THIS GAME OR IS A SUB
- TOP 5-7 PLAYERS PLAY WHOLE GAME
- OTHER GUYS HAVE TAKEN ON ROLES BASED ON PITCHING, CATCHING AND ARE CONSISTENT SUBS
- CATCHERS
- PITCHING
- BE OPEN TO CHANGE AND CONSTANTLY CHECK STATS AND YOUR LINE UP
- WHEN SOMEONE ISNT HITTING OR PLAYING AS WELL NOW VERSUS BEFORE
- A NON STARTER BECOMING A STARTER OR MORE OPPORTUNITIES
- LOOK FOR OPPORTUNITIES TO HELP PLAYERS BE SUCCESSFUL
FIRST BASE COACH
In actual fact, there are a number of very important responsibilities for the first base coach
and understanding them will help provide a first base coach with a
sense of purpose.
Responsibilities
- Remind batter-runners to hustle up the line and run through the
bag at first - Remind batter-runners to round the bag hard on singles, helping
them pick up the ball on the throw back to the infield, and
encouraging them to get more distance when the ball is in left
field - Assist the batter-runner with reading the relay throws back to
the infield after singles; especially important with other runners
on base - Help runners read the pitchers pick-off moves: ID a pitchers A,
B, and C moves so they can adjust accordingly - When they are the trail runner, help the runner at first base
avoid back-picks: you should position yourself so you can see
the 1st baseman and the runner without having to turn your
head - Help the runner at 2nd read the pitchers pick move (3rd base
coach responsible for middle infielders) - Assist runners at first with reading fly balls and whether to tag
o Remember that if there is another lead runner, the runner
at first should always come back to tag prior to an out
being made so he can advance on throws to other bases - Review the game situation and prepare runners for likely
offensive tactics (“this is a good opportunity to hit and run, don’t
be surprised if coach gives you one this at bat”) - Help baserunners decipher signs
Information to communicate
Number of outs: Every time a baserunner reaches first base
remind them of the number of outs immediately.
- Other baserunners: Remind the runner at 1st if there are other
baserunners in front of them. If there is, make sure they don’t
“run them off” and force your team into an out. If there isn’t
any runner in front of them… - Find a way to second base: Taking away the force at 2nd (and
the double play) is so critical that runners need to ALWAYS be
looking for a way to move up one base. Cue them to look for
downward angle of the pitch. If, after 45 feet, the ball is on a
downward angle and will hit the ground baserunners should be
challenging catchers to throw them out after having to block a
pitch. Runners can also, if they have the “green light”, look for
breaking ball counts to run on. They can also take advantage of
a lazy catcher of middle infielders who are not cover second
between pitches. - Remind them to get a quality secondary lead
- Review responsibilities on ground ball, line drive, fly ball, and
foul ball (automatic tag) - Speed of the pitchers pick-off move, time of the pitcher to the
plate, and arm strength/willingness to throw of the catcher - The count on the hitter
o Reminder on breaking ball counts to anticipate balls in the
dirt
o On full counts with 2 out, players can be in motion when
pitcher commits to the plate
o On 2-strike counts with 2 out, players can be in motion
when they read swing - Check outfield positioning
- ID the indicator for a pitchers pick-off move
- Discuss number of moves or timing that the pitcher falls into at
1st base AND 2nd base
THIRD BASE COACH
The third base coach can win and lose games. Making the wrong call for baserunners results in unnecessary outs, missed scoring opportunities, and frustration and tension throughout the team.
What successful third base coaches have in common—are rock-solid foundational skills—and the willingness to utilize intuition to be decisive.
A good coach makes it seem like they can read the future, by always being one step ahead of the competition.
Proper positioning is key
Coaching third base is all about positioning.
To make the right call, the third base coach must be in a position where they can:
- See the ball
- See the defense
- Read the play
- Be visible to the runner
Being less than optimally placed for any of these variables dramatically increases the chance of making a bad call.
Common situations
With no runners on base, there’s not a whole lot of activity for the third base coach.
The main thing with no runners on base is to be safely positioned to avoid getting hit by a batted ball. This is usually more of a concern with a right-handed hitter, so adjust accordingly.
Once the ball is in play, the third base coach must constantly be aware of and adjust their position.
Runner on First
With a runner on first (or a ball hit down the right-field line), the coach should be more to the outfield side of third base.
Their job is to be positioned to be seen by the runner as soon as possible. The runner needs to be able to pick the coach up early to bring him to third, or hold him.
Runner at Second
If there’s a runner on second, the coach can’t be even with third base in line of sight of the runner. This is an easy mistake to make, as it’s usually best practice to be as visible to the runner as possible.
The problem is, from that position, the coach can’t see the ball or how the defense is responding.
To properly direct the runner on second—the third base coach needs to be as far down the line toward home plate as possible.
Runner at Third base only
When there’s a runner on third only, the coach can be even with the base and have a close dialogue with the player.
But remember, if there is a runner on first as well, this isn’t possible. You’ll need to shift position further up toward the outfield to be more visible for the runner on first.
Runner at Second and Third base
With runners on second and third, the third base coach needs to move back down the line closer to the catcher.
In this situation, the coach needs to be positioned so they are visible to both runners—while also being able to see the play unfolding in the outfield.
Decision Making
If you’re not early, you’re late
In every situation with runners on base, the third base coach has to make a snap decision, then communicate it to the runner without delay. Any hesitation can result in a wasted opportunity, or worse—an out.
If you struggle with overthinking. Or spending too much time trying to make the ‘right’ decision. Try reminding yourself that a late call is a wrong call.
To be a good third base coach and in game manager—you have to be willing to trust your gut, not second guess yourself, and accept that you will make mistakes.
Communication
Next to positioning, communication is the most important skill when coaching third base.
The whole purpose of being in position and reading the play—is so you can quickly and effectively communicate with base runners. This is how third base coaches win games.
With the exception of only having a runner on third, you’ll need to come up with some signals and hand-signs to communicate with your runners. Your base runners should always know where to find you, how you are going to communicate, and your expectations.
Except for adjusting to the play—there should be no surprises or changes to how you coach third base on game day.
Here’s a recap of the three most important points when coaching third base:
- Be in the right position for every situation. The most common mistake made by third base coaches, is not being in position to read the play and make the right call. The correct position will be different for each situation. Take the time to learn them all.
- Trust your first instinct. Remember—a late call is a wrong call. To be an effective third base coach, you must be willing and able to make decisions in an instant. Trust your gut and don’t second guess yourself. First instincts are usually right.
- It’s all about communication. Next to positioning, communication is the most important part of coaching third base. It’s crucial to have an agreed upon system for communication—that every player and coach is aware of and understands before game day.
How to deliver the pre-game talk as a baseball coach
As a baseball coach, you talk to your players at every practice, but your pre-game talk is your last chance to get your players ready for their upcoming game. The pre-game talk is your chance to remind players of the goal and game plan in general terms and to get your players psyched up. The following tips can help you give an effective pre-game talk:
- Meet with the team away from any distractions.
- Keep the meeting short.
- Focus on just a couple of main points – early in season, remind them of the signs
- Stress to the kids the importance of being good sports — no matter what happens on the field — and to show respect toward the umpires.
- Exude confidence in their abilities.
- Avoid using unfamiliar terms or introducing new strategies.
- Conclude your talk by reminding players to have fun — max effort and focus.
How to deliver the post-game talk as a baseball coach
As a baseball coach, you enjoy when your team wins and suffer when they lose. Win or lose, though, you need to talk to your players after the game. After the baseball game is over, your post-game talk should cover the following points:
- Meet with the team away from any distractions.
- Keep fairly brief — 15-20 minutes should be plenty of time
- Be upbeat and applaud the effort everyone put forth.
- Collect information throughout the game to share as examples and learning points.
- Use drawings or walk throughs to show examples when appropriate
- Point out the positives and recognize the displays of good sportsmanship.
- Don’t allow the scoreboard to dictate how you talk to your players.
- Wrap up the talk on a high note and send the kids home with a smile.
