Suggestions for making practices more real.

Our thanks to Ian Brydges, Sarnia, Ontario. This idea combines mental and physical training - strategy, anticipation and execution. It's sort of like replaying a game video in 3D!

Our team simulates an actual game situation by taking one inning in a previous game and with a coach acting as the hitter go through each at bat putting the ball in play where it was in the actual game.

In this controlled situation, the coach can correct a problem with his offense and or his defense. The idea is to have some of the more common plays or situations come more instinctively to the players - to give them a huge advantage over the opponent.

Everyone gets involved, including base coaches who also can for see plays and situations that may come up - maybe every game or maybe just once a season. With practice, they too become instinctive. Over the years you can collect favourite teaching situations - anything from as simple as how to run to first base on a hit or to what to do when the catcher has a pass ball with three strikes on the batter and a man on second base.

Our thanks to Bob Hendrickson, Pageland, S.C. This idea comes from a South Carolina Dixie Youth coach. In some ways it resembles a drill, but the potential for scoring makes it more game like.

Divide the team into 3 groups of 3 or 4 (4 works best. )  Each group are their own team. 2 groups play the field while the other group bats.

Use either a tee or soft toss in front of home plate. After a player hits the ball he runs the bases. Have a coach on first and third giving instruction to the runners. 

The group continues to hit until they get 3 outs. They then take the field and the next group of 4 comes in and takes their turn at bat. When all 3 groups have batted, 1 inning is completed. Position the players in the positions they will be in during real games. [WebBall Note: Younger-age teams are encourage to use this opportunity to try players at positions they aren't used to playing, as well.]

This drill teaches players how to react to actual game situations and encourages communication between players. Fundamental relays and backups should be emphasized on every play. Encourage players to make their own decisions and correct where necessary.

This drill moves very fast!  The coach who is tossing or placing the ball on the tee is the designated catcher. If you only have enough for 3 man teams, work with 4 infielders and 2 outfielders.