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Read the Ball — Extra Base Drill

Teaches runners to read balls off the bat and make good decisions rounding first.

BaserunningIntermediate10 min3+ players8U9U10U11U12U13U14U

Watch the Full Demonstration

How to Run This Drill
  1. 1
    Runner starts at home. Coach hits a ball to the outfield.
  2. 2
    Runner sprints to first, reads the ball, and decides: hold up or go to second.
  3. 3
    Coach yells 'GO' or 'HOLD' at first to help younger players.
  4. 4
    Progress to having the runner make the decision on their own.
Equipment Needed
  • Bases
  • Baseballs
  • Bat
  • Gloves
Coaching Tips
  • ●Banana turn at first — start arcing 10 feet before the bag.
  • ●Touch the inside corner of the base.
  • ●Find the ball with your eyes as you round — don't guess.