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Purpose:
This drill helps players practice the execution of rundowns after a pickoff attempt, focusing on communication, timing, and positioning between the first baseman, second baseman, and pitcher. It reinforces the importance of handling baserunners efficiently and turning potential errors into outs. By practicing these situations, players will develop better coordination and awareness during game scenarios, especially when managing baserunners caught between first and second base.

Setup:

  • The pitcher is positioned on the pitcher’s mound, ready for a pickoff move.
  • The first baseman (1B) is on the bag in pickoff position.
  • The second baseman (2B) is positioned between first and second base, ready to assist in the rundown.
  • A runner takes a lead off from first base.
  • The pitcher backs up first base after making the pickoff throw to support the play.

Execution:

  • The runner takes a lead at first base, preparing to break for second.
  • The pitcher makes a pickoff move to first base.
  • The first baseman receives the pickoff throw and, if the runner breaks for second, begins the rundown by throwing the ball to the second baseman.
  • The second baseman and first baseman execute the rundown, exchanging throws as needed to tag the runner out.
  • The pitcher backs up the play behind first base to prevent an overthrow.

Coaching Tips:

  • Reinforce quick and accurate throws during the rundown, ensuring that players are always in position to make a tag without rushing.
  • Emphasize communication between the first baseman and second baseman to decide who will make the final tag on the baserunner.
  • Teach players to close the gap on the runner during the rundown, reducing the number of throws needed to make the out.

Tips for Younger Athletes:

  • Encourage younger players to focus on their footwork, staying balanced and low to make clean throws during the rundown.
  • Emphasize proper glove positioning when receiving throws to ensure clean catches without unnecessary movement.
  • Teach younger players to stay calm during the rundown, avoiding panic and ensuring accuracy over speed when making throws.

Tips for Older Athletes:

  • Challenge older players to anticipate the runner’s movements, positioning themselves to close the distance quickly and minimize the number of throws needed.
  • Emphasize the importance of making decisive throws and tags, pushing experienced athletes to commit to their actions without hesitation.
  • Focus on refining the communication between players, encouraging older athletes to take charge and execute the rundown efficiently as a team.
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