PRACTICE 13 

GOAL:  Continue defensive practice with outfielders going to the correct base and improving baserunning technique.

First 5 Minutes

Talk to the players and encourage them to work hard and have fun. Concentrate on better technique today and tell the players what will be done during this practice.

Next 5 Minutes (Stretching)

Stretch legs for two minutes and stretch arms for two minutes. Stretching prepares the muscles to prevent injury. The last minute should be used to jog around the field once.

Next 10 Minutes (Tossing)

Pair off the players and line them up 10 to 12 feet apart. Make sure there is enough room to consider errant throws. Have them toss the ball back and forth. As the arms become loose, the last 10 tosses should be long tosses – as far as can be thrown.

Coaching Point

• Make sure the same players are not always paired off together. 
  

Next 3 Minutes (Water Break)

Give the players time to break for water. It is extremely important for the players to remain hydrated at all times. But have them hustle back to the field.

Next 25 Minutes (Infield Players With Proper Baserunning; Coach Hitting to Outfield)

Put infielders and outfielders in place and the remaining players will run the bases as the coach hits pop flies to the outfielders. This drill allows game-type situations for the defense and the base runners. Stress the cutoff throws and fielders backing each other up.

End of Practice

End practice with a lap around the bases. Then, while the players are drinking water, huddle them together for a talk.

By now, you may be into your season. Take this time to recognize the improvement since the first practice. Tell the players the next practice (or game) time and follow up with an email to their parents.