Base Running Tips: Getting Around the Bases

If you read my first article about base running tips you will know how to best get on base. Of course once you get on base that is not enough. Now you need to score. So here are some tips on getting around the rest of the bases.

If you're in a league where the third base coach gives signs to the runners on base then the first thing to do is to look towards him for the signs. A runner should get their signs before the pitcher is even on the rubber and he should look back to the third base coach in between each pitch because different situations could lead to a change in strategy.

Once the pitcher has stepped on the rubber that is when you want to start to take a lead. When a runner takes a lead he shouldn't just slowly walk a few steps away from the base. Always be in an athletic position ready to move in one direction or the other, much like a fielder. Also keep your eye on the pitcher at all times.

A runner should never get picked off if they are not stealing the base. If the runner is stealing second it's possible they took too big a lead or got thrown out stealing or jumped too soon. If you're not stealing a base though, there is no excuse for being picked off.

Once the pitcher starts to deliver the ball a runner wants to take another step or two to get an even better lead. The reasons for this is that it will shorten the distance to the next base and it will also make it easier to start sprinting to the next bag since you're already moving in that direction. The lead can't be too big though or you'll get doubled up on a line drive.

Once the ball is hit one of the most important parts of base running is judging the trajectory of the ball. If a ball is hit and it is a line drive right towards one of the fielders or a high fly ball you want to either wait and see if it's caught or retreat to first base. If the ball is hit on the ground the runner should be going to second immediately to try and not get forced out.