Base running decisions change depending on the hit location and the number of outs. This drill runs three runners through five scenarios each so they build decision-making speed.
Equipment needed: 12 baseballs, a full infield, bases, three runners.
Setup: Three runners start at three different bases (one at first, one at second, one at third). You’re hitting ground balls and fly balls to different positions.
How to run it:
- Ground ball to second baseman: runner on first advances one base only. Runner on second holds. Runner on third scores.
- Fly ball to right field: runner on third tags up and scores. Runner on second holds. Runner on first holds.
- Ground ball to shortstop: runner on first is forced. Runner on second advances two if the throw goes to first.
- Gap double down the line: runner on first scores, runner on second scores, runner on third scores.
- Pop-up to infield: runners stay put.
Run all three runners through all five scenarios. Then switch positions.
What to look for: Do they know when to go and when to stay? A runner who hesitates two steps off the bag has already lost the read. The good ones pick up the ball off the bat, glance at the third base coach, and commit. The shaky ones drift halfway, then guess.
If they’re struggling: Drop to two scenarios at a time and walk through the read out loud before the pitch. “Ball on the ground to the right side, you advance one.” Then run it.
If they’ve got it: Add a real fielder making a real throw. The runner has to react to the actual play, not the scripted call. Mix the scenarios randomly so they can’t anticipate.