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Base Backup Drill

Teaches every fielder where to back up on different types of hits and throws. Emphasizes that everyone has a job on every play.

TeamBeginner12 min9+ players8U9U10U11U12U

Watch the Full Demonstration

How to Run This Drill
  1. 1
    Coach hits a ball to a specific area and calls out the situation.
  2. 2
    Every player must move to their correct backup position.
  3. 3
    Freeze after the play — coach checks if everyone is in the right spot.
  4. 4
    Situations: single to left (who backs up second?), throw from right field to third (who backs up third?), wild pitch (who backs up home?).
  5. 5
    Walk through 5 situations, then do 5 at full speed.
Equipment Needed
  • Baseballs
  • Gloves
  • Bat (for fungo)
  • Full field setup
Coaching Tips
  • ●Rule of thumb: if you're not fielding the ball or receiving the throw, you should be backing someone up.
  • ●Outfielders back up each other and the bases behind them.
  • ●Pitcher backs up home and third — this is the most commonly forgotten job.