30_089606 bindex.qxp 2/21/07 6:59 PM Page 343

Index

bag, defined, 51. See also bases • A • balls (bad pitches) abbreviations , defined, 51 for players in diagrams, 260–261 walk after four, 44, 52, 249, 250 for scorebook, 53 when bunting, 142 AD/HD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity balls (equipment) Disorder), 325 softball versus , 42 age. See also ’s programs; touched by base runner, 46 T-ball for youngest kids, 40 drills dictated by, 210 base , 51. See also fielding singles field adjustments for youngest kids, 39–40 base lines lineup considerations, 61 defined, 37 for pitching breaking balls, 195 going outside, 46, 149 playing time considerations, 59–60 illustrated, 36 practice opportunities determined by, 26 staying of, during , 170 rules for youngest kids, 39–40 base on balls, 51. See also walks tailoring coaching philosophy to, 18–20 . See running bases alleys, defined, 52 . See also specific areas All-Star teams, 28 illustrated, 36 assistant coaches inspecting before a game, 106, 111 avoiding unhealthy situations, 67 on-the-field coaching, 38, 40 dissenting, handling, 318–319 overview, 36–38 recruiting, 66–67 placement for youngest kids, 39–40 responsibilities of, 66 size reduced for youngest kids, 39 , defined, 51 size variations, 39 athletically gifted kids softball versus baseball, 42 disruptive, 85 Baseball For Dummies (Morgan), 255 working with, 83–84 baseball mementos, 341 Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder bases. See also running bases (AD/HD), 325 covering on stealing attempts, 169 attention span, short,COPYRIGHTED 82–83, 125, 210, 325 defined, MATERIAL 37 attitudes for hitters, 248–249 illustrated, 36 awards missing a base, 47 individual, 340 rules for base-running, 46–48 for sportsmanship, 331 rules for getting on base, 44–45 sharing not allowed, 47 softball versus baseball, 42 • B • tagging up, 48, 53, 151–154, 254 bases empty, fielding with backhand toss for plays, 176 doubles or triples, 271–273, 274–275 backstop, 36, 38 singles, 262–264 30_089606 bindex.qxp 2/21/07 6:59 PM Page 344

344 Coaching Baseball For Dummies

bases loaded, fielding with rules for youngest kids, 40 hit to center field, 269 sacrifice , 140–143, 251–252 hit to left field, 268 , 252 hit to right field, 270 sharing between teammates about, 248 Base-Throw Challenge drill, 222 stance for, 135–137, 146 Basket drill, 241 strategies, 247–252 bats , 44, 135, 139 length-minus-weight restrictions, 40 swinging, 137–140 overview, 29, 32 taking strikes, 249 softball versus baseball, 42 troubleshooting, 145–147 for youngest kids, 40 watching the , 248, 250 batter’s boxes working pitch counts, 249–251 defined, 37 average, 51 illustrated, 36 , 109, 334–335 leaving after hitting, 148–149, 154 batting gloves, 30 stepping outside with ball in play, 46 batting helmets . See also ; pitcher and for drills, 230 pitching importance of, 30, 44 assigning players, 77 overview, 30 defined, 48, 191 wearing in on-deck circle, 248 drills for, 216–219, 236–237 importance of, 191 choosing, 79–80, 107 pre-game warm-up, 109 mid-season adjustments, 121 batting rotating players in, 79 analyzing game situation before, 248 rules for, 43 attitudes for hitters, 248–249 for substitutions, 43 bunting, 80, 140–144, 251–252 in T-ball, 79–80 , 249 bent-leg technique, 155–156 choking up, 135, 251 boldfaced text in this book, 2 combining fundamentals with situational bones, broken or dislocated, 300 elements, 247–248 bottom half of , 43 drills for, 210–213, 230–232 breaking balls eyesight problems for, 145 age for pitching, 195 , 249 defined, 195 first pitch, 249–250 fastballs-only rule, 41 follow-through, 139–140 broken bones, 300 grip for, 134–135 bullies, 86–87. See also discipline issues hand signals for, 113–114 Bunt Bonanza drill, 236–237 , 45, 249 bunts and bunting in the hole, 52 contacting top half of ball, 141–142 loosening muscles before, 248 directing the ball, 142, 143, 144 on-deck hitter, 36, 38, 248 fielding, by catcher, 206–207, 217–218 order for, 43, 79–80, 107, 121 fielding, by pitcher, 236–237 out of turn, 46 fielding, drills for, 217–218, 236–237 , 52 fielding, sacrifice, 281–283 pre-game warm-up, 109 grip for, 141 protecting the plate, 251 for a hit, 143–144 regular practice needed for, 133 sacrifice, covering, 281–283 rules for, 44 sacrifice, making, 140–143, 251–252 30_089606 bindex.qxp 2/21/07 6:59 PM Page 345

Index 345

by second hitter, 80 challenges. See also discipline issues troubleshooting, 147 dissenting assistants, 318–319 burnout, 84 preparing for, 15–16 butt kicks stretch, 293 problematic opposing coach, 316–318 problematic parents, 59–60, 61, 67, 309–315 safety of kids, 15–16 • C • struggling kids, 99–100, 324–326 caffeine, 308 changeups cancelled games, 26 batting, 249 caps, 31 hand signals for, 200 carbonated drinks, 308 pitching, 193–194, 196 carnival day, 339–340 cheering catcher. See also battery runners, by first base coach, 257 blocking wild pitches, 202–204, 208 successful plays, 20 catching foul balls, 206, 208, 218–219 team cheer, 22, 112 drills for, 217–219, 236–237 chest protector for catcher, 31 equipment provided by league, 32 choking up the bat, 135, 251 fielding bunts, 206–207, 217–218 Choose the Base drill, 239–240 flinching by, 208 Circle the Bases drill, 213 hand signals, 195, 200, 201 cleanup hitter, 80 handling high pitches, 204 cleats or spikes handling outside pitches, 208 policies regarding, 29 by, 45 removing for sliding practice, 155 nabbing base stealers, 204–205 sliding injury risk from, 156 pre-game warm-up, 109 closed stance for batting, 137 protecting home plate, 205–206 coaching boxes, 36, 38 protecting throwing hand, 201–202 coaching philosophy. See philosophy of responsibilities of, 49–50, 77, 199 coaching retrieving passed balls, 204 coaching your own child safety equipment for, 31 communicating, 32, 33 stance behind plate, 199–202 overcompensating, avoiding, 34 stance for younger kids, 201 playing favorites, avoiding, 34 symbol in diagrams, 261 preparing for the issues, 15 traits and skills of, 77 pushing too hard, 15 troubleshooting, 207–208 tips for, 33 catcher’s box, 36, 37 coach’s pitch programs. See also age; catching throws. See also catcher; fielding T-ball cutoff man position for, 260 coaching philosophy for, 19 at first base, 171–174 described, 27, 41 underhand toss for double plays, 175–176 practice frequency and duration, 90 . See also practicing pitching to kids, 28 shallow pop fly to, 279–280 communicating with kids hit to, bases empty, 263 about fielding positions, 74, 76, 121 single hit to, runner on first, or first closing chat for practices, 104 and third, 266 coaching your own child, 32, 33 single hit to, runner on second, first and emphasizing teamwork, 20–21 second, or bases loaded, 269 getting feedback, 336–337 symbol in diagrams, 261 giving players a voice, 335 traits and skills of, 79, 182 in goal-setting process, 125 30_089606 bindex.qxp 2/21/07 6:59 PM Page 346

346 Coaching Baseball For Dummies

communicating with kids (continued) of special-needs kids, 69 good sportsmanship, 24, 318 strategies for, 58 greeting team for first time, 95–96 of uncoordinated kids, 82 guest speakers for, 334 updating, 11 hand signals for, 113–114 competitive leagues, 28 influencing their lives, 13–14 competitive parents, 310–311 introducing everyone, 97 concession-stand worker, 68 keeping lines open, 22–23 concussion, 299–300 motivating players, 21–22 consent forms, 63 personal meetings at season end, 342 consistent practices, 94–95 policies, 25 contact information, 65 post-game talk, 117–118 contests at practices, 336 pre-game team meeting, 110–112 cool-downs, 209, 295 pre-game tips, 329–332 corner of strike zone, 51 progress reports, 338 on progress with goals, 127–128 defined, 51 promoting team spirit, 22 outfield strategy for, 183 rules, 35 protecting the plate, 251 sharing your experiences, 331 working at bat, 249–250 shy kids, 23, 81–82 crazy uniform day, 334 when disciplining a team member, 321 Crazy-Angle Throws drill, 219 communicating with parents. See also cups, protective, 30, 31 parents backup plan for meeting, 57 age for pitching, 195 on behavior in the stands, 61–63 fastballs-only rule, 41 coaching philosophy, 18, 58–63 cutoff man controlling your emotions, 11 communicating with, 261 on discipline issues, 323 defined, 51 on disruptive behavior, 313–315 options for, 261 on expectations, 11 positioning to receive throw, 260 follow-up Q-and-A session, 69–70 cuts and scrapes, treating, 297 getting feedback, 128–129 in goal-setting process, 126 handouts for, 58 • D • on help with practices, 103 defense. See also battery; fielding; specific information to cover, 57 plays and players on injuries, 296, 302 covering sacrifice bunts, 281–283 on lineup, 60, 61 covering shallow outfield, 278–281 mid-season conversations, 128–129 cutoffs, 260, 261 notes for meeting, 57 drills for, 215–226, 234–241 open-door policy for, 59 overview of players, 48 personal packets for, 64–65 preparation as key to, 260 planning the meeting, 56–57 shifting players before the pitch, 284–286 on playing time, 59, 60, 312–313 strategies for doubles and triples, 271–277 policies and rules, 11, 64–65 strategies for singles, 261–269 practice schedule, 65, 91 dehydration, 304, 305, 307–308 practicing your presentation, 57 diet and food pre-season meeting, 55–58, 310 after games and practices, 306–307, 330 purposes served by, 56 before games and practices, 306 30_089606 bindex.qxp 2/21/07 6:59 PM Page 347

Index 347

maintaining energy, 305–306 fun, 102 teaching kids about, 204–205 helping struggling kids, 100 discipline issues for hitting, 210–213, 230–232 bullies, 86–87 holding kids’ interest, 13, 73 communicating with parents, 323 judging based on difficulty, 95 disruptive kids, 85 keeping fresh, 122–123 general advice for, 320–322 letting kids help select, 93 mistakes not qualifying as, 321 offensive, 210–215, 229–234 never allowing problems to linger, 24 for , 225–226 playing time as your advantage, 320 pairing parents with kids, 103 tardiness, 320 for pitcher, 216–217 three-strike technique for, 322–323 safety for, 230 disinterested kids, working with, 84 sample practice plans, 227–228, 242–244 dislocated bones, 300 for , 220–221 disruptive kids, 85. See also discipline selecting for practices, 92 issues for , 221–223 disruptive parents, 313–315 for sliding, 214–215 dissenting assistants, 318–319 for stealing bases, 233–234 diving for ground balls, 165 for , 223–224 double hit out, 46 tweaking for strengths and weaknesses, 95 Starter drill, 220 dugouts double plays coach’s behavior in, 113 base-running tips for avoiding, 154 defined, 38 breaking up by sliding, 158, 254 encouraging in enthusiasm in, 20 defined, 51 illustrated, 36 drills for, 220, 222–223, 238–239 DVDs force out in, 175 of player highlights, 341 runner on first, 174, 175–176 recording for team, 340–341 runner on third, 174 second baseman skills for, 78 shortstop skills for, 78 • E • techniques for second baseman, 174–176 eating. See diet and food Double-Play Throws drill, 222–223 emergency treatment authorization doubles. See also fielding doubles or triples forms, 64 defined, 45 emergency/first-aid situations. See also ground-rule for, 52 injuries drag bunts, 143–144 assessing, 301 drills. See also practices; specific drills first-aid kit, 289–291 adjusting for improved skills, 122–123 taking action, 302 age and talent levels dictating, 210 ending the season, 339–342 for base running, 213–215, 232–234 enthusiasm for catcher, 217–219 disinterested kids, 84 consistency in, 94–95 , encouraging, 20 defensive, 215–226 good sportsmanship for, 116 as discipline, avoiding, 321 during practices, 94 evaluating skills during, 74 for practices, 209 evaluating skills for, 73 pre-game inspirational talk, 111–112 for , 219–220 showing yours, 21 for first practice, 98 team cheer, 22, 112 30_089606 bindex.qxp 2/21/07 6:59 PM Page 348

348 Coaching Baseball For Dummies

equipment. See also specific kinds fielding. See also specific players and for catcher safety, 31 kinds of fielding ensuring for practices, 96 stance for, 162–163 first-aid kit, 289–291 line drives, 167, 187 inspecting for safety, 32 pre-game warm-up for, 110 league’s responsibilities, 30–32 preparation as key to, 260 listing responsibilities for parents, 65 shifting players before the pitch, 284–286 players’ responsibilities, 29–30 fielding bunts pre-game check of, 107 by catcher, 206–207, 217–218 errors, defined, 45, 51. See also mistakes by pitcher, 236–237 evaluating skills sacrifice, 281–283 adjusting drills for improvements, fielding doubles or triples 122–123 with bases empty, 271–273, 274–275 asking for help with, 75 hit to left center field gap, 274, 276 for filling out lineup card, 75–80 hit to left field corner, 271–272 identifying strengths and weaknesses, 75 hit to right center field gap, 275, 277 importance of, 73 hit to right field corner, 272–273 recognizing improvements, 120–122 with runners on base, 271–272, 273, starting at first practices, 74 276–277 tools for, 74 fielding fly balls or pop-ups even stance for batting, 136–137 by catcher, 206, 208, 218–219 Extra-Base Challenge drill, 233 in outfield, 183–187, 226, 241 eye injuries, 298–299, 300 pop-ups, 168 eyesight, batting problems due to, 145 running catch, 185–187, 189, 241 in shallow center field, 279–280 in shallow left field, 278–279 • F • in shallow right field, 280–281 fair ball, defined, 37 by third baseman, 224 fastballs fielding ground balls batting, 249 backhanded play for, 178–179 for fooling batters, 193 basics, 163–165 fastballs-only rule, 41 crossover step for, 177, 178 four-seam, pitching, 193, 194 diving for, 165 hand signals for, 200 going under glove, 170 lacking velocity, 199 greeting, 164 favorites, never playing, 321 by outfielders, 187–188, 189–190 fear by pitcher, 216–217 after injury or trauma, 126 by shortstop, 177–179 flinching by catcher, 208 slow-moving, 180, 181 taking eyes off ball out of, 170 by third baseman, 180–181, 223–224 when batting, 145 fielding positions. See battery; positions in working with scared kids, 87–88, 129 the field feedback, getting fielding singles from kids, 336–337 with bases empty, 262–264 from parents, 128–129 with bases loaded, 268–270 field. See baseball field hit to center field, 263, 266, 269 fielder’s choice, 45, 51 hit to left field, 262, 265, 268 30_089606 bindex.qxp 2/21/07 6:59 PM Page 349

Index 349

hit to right field, 264, 267, 270 food. See diet and food with runner on first, 265–267 force out, 46, 175 with runner on second, 268–270 forearm and wrist stretch, 293 with runners on first and second, 268–270 foul balls with runners on first and third, 265–267 from bunting, correcting, 147 Find the Fly drill, 239 catcher’s fielding of, 206, 208, 218–219 Find the drill, 218–219 defined, 37, 52 Find the Pop Up drill, 224 as a strike, 44 first base tagging up on fly ball, 153, 254 coaching runners on, 256–257 foul lines, 36, 37 rounding, 150–151 foul out, 46 running from, 254 full count, 51 running through, 149 sliding into, 149 first baseman. See also infield • G • drills for, 219–220 game day handling high throws, 173 coaching responsibilities, 14 handling low throws, 172–173, 174, 219–220 cool-down after, 295 left-handers for, 77 hand signals, 113–114 ready position for, 171 important points to reinforce, 14 receiving throws, 171–173 lopsided games, 117 responsibilities of, 50, 77, 171 mid-season adjustments, 121 symbol in diagrams, 260 motivating players, 112–113 traits and skills of, 77–78 nervousness, 329 troubleshooting, 173–174 post-game talk, 117–118 first-aid kit, 289–291 pre-game checklist, 105–107 flinching by catcher, 208 pre-game team meeting, 110–112 fluids pre-game tips, 329–332 for maintaining energy, 305 strategy adjustments, 115 staying hydrated, 307–308 substitutions, 114–115 water breaks, 92 warm-ups, 107–110, 294–295 fly balls or pop-ups winning and losing gracefully, 116–117 from bunting, correcting, 147 gaps catcher’s fielding of, 206, 208, 218–219 defined, 52 catching in outfield, 183–187, 226, 241 hits to, bases empty, 274–275 catching pop-ups, 168 hits to, runners on base, 276–277 drills for, 218–219, 224, 226, 239 Get Low drill, 215 pop-ups, defined, 168 glossary, 51–53 running catch, charging in, 185, 189, 241 gloves, baseball running catch, going back, 185–187, 189 for catcher, 31 running strategies for, 254, 255 ground balls going under, 170 sacrifice, 252 overview, 29 to shallow center field, 279–280 using for ground balls, 165 to shallow left field, 278–279 gloves, batting, 30 to shallow right field, 280–281 glucose, 305 tagging up on, 48, 53, 151–154, 254 goals third baseman’s fielding of, 224 creating plans for achieving, 126–127 fly out, 45 creating realistic, 21 Fly-Ball Frenzy drill, 226 goal board versus scoreboard, 24 30_089606 bindex.qxp 2/21/07 6:59 PM Page 350

350 Coaching Baseball For Dummies

goals (continued) for holding kids’ interest, 125 • H • for injured or traumatized players, 126 hand signals involving kids in setting, 125 for batting, 113–114, 258 involving parents in setting, 126 by catcher, 195, 200, 201 multiple, 124 overview, 113 in pre-game talk, avoiding, 111 for tagging up, 153 setting mid-season, 124–126 by third base coach, 258 sharing progress with kids, 127–128 when ball is in play, 114 tying to games, avoiding, 125 handcuffed swing, 145 value of, 124 handouts for parents, 58 good sportsmanship. See sportsmanship head. See also helmets greeting ground balls, 164 concussion, 299–300 grip injuries involving, 301 for batting, 134–135 movement when batting, 146 for bunting, 141 head-first sliding for changeup, 194 league rules against, 41, 156 for four-seam , 193, 194 situations for, 156 for infield throws, 165 technique for, 157 for tagging base runners, 169 health. See diet and food; injuries; safety groin stretch, 293 heat exhaustion, 304 ground balls. See also bunts and bunting heatstroke, 304 backhanded play for, 178–179 helmets crossover step when fielding, 177, 178 for batting, 30, 44 diving for, 165 catcher’s, 31 drills for, 219, 220–224 for drills, 230 fielding, basic steps for, 163–164 wearing in on-deck circle, 248 fielding, by outfielders, 187–188, 189–190 hip-flexor stretch, 293 fielding, by pitcher, 216–217 Hit the Target drill, 238 fielding, by shortstop, 177–179 hits. See also fielding fielding, by third baseman, bunting for, 143–144 180–181, 223–224 covering shallow outfield, 278–281 going under glove, 170 defensive strategies for doubles and greeting, 164 triples, 271–277 hard-hit, to third baseman, 181 defensive strategies for singles, 261–269 in-close setup risks with, 284 defined, 45 keeping head down, 165 pull hitters, 285–286 legging out after hitting, 149 hitting. See batting running strategies for, 254, 255 home plate slow-moving, 180, 181 catcher’s protection of, 205–206 using glove for, 165 running from third base, 255 using two hands for, 165 home , 45 ground out, 45 hook slide technique, 158–159 Ground-Ball Mania drill, 223–224 hydration, 305, 307–308 ground-rule double, 52 guest speakers, 334 30_089606 bindex.qxp 2/21/07 6:59 PM Page 351

Index 351

serious, 299–301 • I • sliding and risk of, 155, 156, 157, 159 icons in margins of this book, 5 stretching for preventing, 292–294 in the hole, defined, 52 twists, sprains, and strains, 298 in-close setup, 284 warm-ups for preventing, 292, 294–295 Individual Toss drill, 211 inexperienced kids, working with, 87 ending game before completing final, 43 infield. See also specific players late, protecting a lead, 284–285 assigning players, 77–78 late, sacrificing during, 252 catching fly balls, 168 limited, for younger kids, 41 catching line drives, 167 mercy rules, 41 covering bases on stealing attempts, 169 rules for, 43 defined, 37 top half versus bottom half, 43 drills for, 219–224, 235, 237–240 two-out, for youngest kids, 41 fielding ground balls, 163–165 inspirational talk, pre-game, 111–112 fielding stance, 162–163 intentional walk, 52 players, 48 italic text in this book, 2 pre-game warm-up, 108, 110 rundowns, 169–170 • J • tagging base runners, 168–169 throwing, 165–167 jerseys, 31 troubleshooting, 170 jock straps, 30 warm-up drill, 235 Infield/Outfield Practice drill, 235 injuries. See also safety • K • adjusting goals after, 126 Kneel Toss drill, 211–212 avoiding, 291–295 from being hit by pitch, 249 coach’s responsibilities after, 296 • L • common, treating, 296–301 late players, 320 concussion, 299–300 leading off from base, 151 cool-downs for preventing, 295 , 80 cuts and scrapes, 297 . See also outfield emergency/first-aid situations, 301–302 double or hit to, 271–272 first-aid kit for, 289–291 shallow pop fly to, 278–279 handling players at the scene, 302 single hit to, bases empty, 262 heat- and sun-related, preventing, single hit to, runner on first, or first 303–304 and third, 265 involving head, neck, or spine, 301 single hit to, runner on second, first and knowing history of kids’, 326 second, or bases loaded, 268 legal issues, 296 symbol in diagrams, 261 limiting throwing drills to avoid, 234 traits and skills of, 79 minor, treating, 298–299 left-handers protecting catcher’s throwing hand from, drag bunts by, 143–144 201–202 for first baseman, 77 30_089606 bindex.qxp 2/21/07 6:59 PM Page 352

352 Coaching Baseball For Dummies

legal issues for injuries, 296 mouth guards, 30 lightning dangers, 303 Mystery Bases drill, 214 line drives from bunting, correcting, 147 catching, 167, 187 • N • defined, 52 NAYS (National Alliance For Youth Sports), line out, 45 as “we” voice in this book, 2 lineup. See also specific players neck, injuries involving, 301 assigning fielding positions, 76–79 neck stretch, 293 choosing a batting order, 79–80 nervousness before game, 329 coaching philosophy for, 60–61 newsletter, team, 342 creating, 60–61 nicknames, 337 filling out card for, 43, 107 nosebleed, 299 positions in the field, 48–50 nutrition. See diet and food using evaluations for, 75–80 for youngest kids, 39–40 lingo, 51–53 • O • losing obstructing a player, 47 downplaying, 21 offense. See also batting; running bases; good sportsmanship in, 116–117 sliding; stealing bases not best indicator of progress, 120 drills for, 210–215, 229–234 as part of learning, 23 strategies for, 247–258 shaking hands with opponents, 24, 117 on-deck circles defined, 38 • M • illustrated, 36 tips for players in, 248 makeup games, policies for, 26 on-deck hitter, 38, 248 mask, catcher, 31 on-the-field coaching, 38, 40 meals. See diet and food open stance for batting, 137 medical evaluation forms, 64 opposing coaches meeting with parents. See communicating congratulating after game, 117 with parents poor sportsmanship modeled by, 317–318 mementos, 341 pre-game meeting with, 106 mercy rules, 41 unsafe play encouraged by, 316–317 missing a base, 47 orbital fracture, 300 mistakes out of play, defined, 52 errors, defined, 45, 51 outfield. See also specific players during game, handling, 112 assigning players, 78–79 helping kids handle, 330 catching fly balls, 183–187, 226, 241 not disciplining kids for, 321 catching line drives, 187 as part of learning, 14 defined, 37 substitution after, avoiding, 115 drills for, 225–226, 235, 240–241 Mixed Speeds drill, 232 fielding hits, 187–188, 189–190 Morgan, Joe (Baseball For Dummies), 255 gaps, defined, 52 motivating players hits to gaps, bases empty, 274–275 on game day, 112–113 hits to gaps, runners on base, 276–277 tailoring to personalities, 21 knowing base-running situations, 183 tips for, 21–22 knowing teammates, 183 30_089606 bindex.qxp 2/21/07 6:59 PM Page 353

Index 353

making throws, 188–189 personal packets for, 64–65, 91 players, 48 pushing your own child, 15 playing the count, 183 removal from stands, 62–63 pre-game warm-up, 109, 110 scrimmaging with kids, 103 ready position, 182–183 sportsmanship programs for, 310 responsibilities of players, 50, 182 win-at-all-cost, 310–311 running catch, charging in, 185, 189, 241 , 52 running catch, going back, 185–187, 189 drill, 230–231 shallow, covering, 278–281 personal packets, 64–65 throwing home, 240–241 philosophy of coaching throwing to bases, 225–226 for ages 6 and under, 18–19 troubleshooting, 189–190 for ages 7 to 9, 19 understanding game conditions, 183 for ages 10 to 12, 19 warm-up drill, 235 for ages 13 to 14, 20 outs for behavior in the stands, 61–63 rules for base-running, 46–47 bonding with kids, 18 rules for making, 45–46 creating lines of communication, 22–23 rules for youngest kids, 40 developing before you start, 15 rundowns, 169–170 emphasizing teamwork, 20–21 tagging base runners, 168–169 explaining to parents, 18, 58–63 third-strike, automatic, 41 focusing on fun and skill development, 23–24 fostering positive atmosphere, • P • 22, 330–331 pants, 30 impact on kids’ lives, 9, 13–14 paperwork lineup in, 60–61 documenting playing time, 313 modeling good sportsmanship, 24 handouts for parents, 58 motivating players, 21–22 league forms, 63–64 playing time in, 59–60 noting injuries, 296 sound, elements of, 18 personal packets for parents, 64–65 sticking to, 18 progress reports for kids, 338 phone lists, 65 parents. See also communicating with photo album, team, 341 parents photo coordinator, 68 as assistant coaches, 66–67 pickles (rundowns), 52, 169–170 coach/parent dual role, 15, 32–34 Pillow Slide drill, 214–215 controlling emotions with, 11 pinch hitter, 52. See also substitutions disruptive, 313–315 , 52. See also substitutions encouraging practice at home with, . See count 124–125 pitcher and pitching. See also battery getting feedback from, 128–129 breaking balls, 195 good sportsmanship by, 61–63 changeup, 193–194, 196 help with practices, 102–103 coach’s pitch programs, 19, 27, 28, 41 helping roles for, 65–66, 68–69 drills for, 216–217, 236–237 importance of working with, 10–11, 55 fastball, four-seam, 193 involving, 11, 312 fastball lacking velocity, 199 listening to, 314–315 fastballs-only rule, 41 pairing with kids in drills, 103 fielding bunts, 236–237 30_089606 bindex.qxp 2/21/07 6:59 PM Page 354

354 Coaching Baseball For Dummies

pitcher and pitching. See also battery mid-season adjustments, 120–121, 129 (continued) moving in close, 284 fielding ground balls, 216–217 numbering, 49 foot placement, 37 on-the-field coaching, 38, 40 four-seam fastball, 194 outfield players, 48, 78–79 hand signals, 195, 200, 201 protecting a lead, 284–285 hitting the batter, 45, 249 for pull hitters, 285–286 limitations to avoid arm problems, 41, 42 responsibilities for each, 49–50 pre-game warm-up, 109 rotating players, 74, 76, 324 responsibilities of pitcher, 49, 191 shifting players before the pitch, 284–286 softball versus baseball, 42 strategies for, 50 stance on mound, 192–193 symbols in diagrams, 160–161 strike zone, 44, 135, 198 for youngest kids, 39–40 symbol in diagrams, 261 power hitters too high, correcting, 198 batting order for, 80 traits and skills of pitcher, 77 generating power, 146 troubleshooting, 198–199 practices. See also drills watching the pitcher, 248, 250 achieving goals, 126–127 windup and delivery, 195–198 adjusting during the season, 95 Pitcher’s Fielding Practice drill, 216–217 allotments (frequency and duration), 90 pitcher’s mound basing on upcoming game, 95 defined, 37 batting cage for, 334–335 illustrated, 36 breaking into segments, 91–92 softball versus baseball, 42 bringing new faces to, 333–334 pitching rubber building skills, 99 defined, 37, 192 choosing skills to focus on first, 98 illustrated, 36 closing chat for, 104 pitcher’s stance on, 192 coaching your own child, 33 playing field. See baseball field for coach’s pitch programs, 28 playing time consistent, 94–95 at advanced levels, 60 contests at, 336 in beginning-level program, 59–60 cool-downs after, 209, 295 coaching your own child, 34 ending on positive note, 103–104 communicating with parents about, 59, equipment for, 96 60, 312–313 evaluating skills during, 74 as discipline tool, 320 first of season, 96–98 dissenting assistants, 319 fun and effective, tips for, 13–14 league policies regarding, 40, 41, 43, 313 fun drills for, 102 plays. See double plays; fielding generating enthusiasm for, 209 policies. See rules, league hand signals during, 113 pop out, 45 helping struggling kids, 99–100 pop-up slide technique, 157–158 at home, encouraging, 124–125 pop-ups. See fly balls or pop-ups identifying strengths and weaknesses, 75 position, ready. See stance or ready position influencing kids’ lives, 13–14 positions in the field. See also battery; letting kids help select drills, 93 specific positions line drives in, 167 assigning, 76–79 making each one beneficial, 98–103 explaining changes to kids, 121 making notes for, 91 infield players, 48, 77–78 parents’ help with, 102–103 30_089606 bindex.qxp 2/21/07 6:59 PM Page 355

Index 355

pitting kids versus coaches, 335 Remember icon, 5 planning, 89–95 responsibilities of coaches praise during, 100–102 after injuries, 296 rotating players during, 74 base coaches, 256–258 sample plans, 227–228, 242–244 behind-the-scenes, 10–12 scheduling, policies for, 26–27 in competitive leagues, 28 scheduling well in advance, 13 game day, list of, 14 scrimmaging, 92 impact on kids’ lives, 9, 13–14 selecting drills for, 92 knowing rules and terminology, 12, 35 standing in line, avoiding, 93 parents’ difficulties with, 59–60, 61, 67, 121 stress-free, 14 pre-game checklist, 105–107 tone for, 94 safety of kids, 15–16 warm-ups, 294–295 setting tone of practices, 94 water breaks, 92 working with parents, 10–11 praise responsibilities of players for athletically gifted kids, 83 catcher, 49–50, 77, 199 cheering runners, 257 first baseman, 50, 77, 171 cheering successful plays, 20 outfielders, 50, 182 for good sportsmanship, 24 pitcher, 49, 191 for great effort, 22 second baseman, 50, 174 for hustle, 113 shortstop, 50, 177 importance of, 21 third baseman, 50 for opponents, 116 . See also outfield at practices, 100–102 double or triple hit to, 272–273 for shy kids, 23, 82 shallow pop fly to, 280–281 for uncoordinated kids, 82 single hit to, bases empty, 264 when coaching your own child, 33 single hit to, runner on first, or first and pre-season preparations third, 267 developing coaching philosophy, 17–24 single hit to, runner on second, first and gathering equipment, 29–32 second, or bases loaded, 270 knowing , 12 symbol in diagrams, 261 knowing league policies, 15, 25–28 traits and skills of, 78–79 knowing terminology, 12 rotating players meeting with parents, 55–58, 310 in batting order, 79 progress reports for kids, 338 to evaluate skills, 74 Progression Hitting Off the Tee drill, 231–232 helping struggling kids, 324 pull hitters, 285–286 for learning and experience, 76 , defined, 52 rounding the bases drill for, 213 technique for, 150–151 • Q • rubber Quick Mystery Throws drill, 237 defined, 37, 192 illustrated, 36 pitcher’s stance on, 192 • R • rules, league Range Reactor drill, 221 age and practice opportunities, 26 ready position. See stance or ready position communicating to parents, 11 recreational league characteristics, 27–28 communicating to team, 25 relay, defined, 52 for competitive leagues, 28 30_089606 bindex.qxp 2/21/07 6:59 PM Page 356

356 Coaching Baseball For Dummies

rules, league (continued) breaking up double plays, 158, 254 knowing before you start, 12, 25 drills for, 213–215, 232–234 for makeup games, 26 evaluating ’s arms, 256 for older kids, 41–42 to first base, 148–149, 154 in personal packets, 64–65 from first base, 254 for playing time, 40, 41, 43, 313 on fly balls, 254, 255 for recreational leagues, 27–28 going outside base lines, 46, 149 for removal of parents, 62–63 on ground balls, 254, 255 for rescheduling practices, 26–27 hand signals for, 114 for substitutions, 115 importance of, 148 for youngest kids, 39–41 leading off, 151 rules of baseball leaving the batter’s box, 148–149, 154 for base-running, 46–48 legging out a ground ball, 149 for batting, 44 rounding the bases, 150–151 batting order, 43 for, 140–143, 251–252 changing for scrimmages, 92 sacrifice fly for, 252 communicating to parents, 11, 64–65 scoring on wild pitches, 255 for getting on base, 44–45 from second base, 254 innings, 43 situational tactics for, 253–255 knowing before you start, 12 strategies, 252–255, 256–258 for making outs, 45–46 tagging up, 48, 53, 151–154, 254 in personal packets, 64–65 from third base, 255 softball versus baseball, 42 troubleshooting, 153 , 52 rundowns, 52, 169–170 runners on base, coaching, 256–258 • S • runners on base, fielding with sacrifice bases loaded, 268–270 bunting for, 140–143, 251–252 doubles or triples, 271–272, 273, 276–277 covering bunts, 281–283 first and second, sacrifice bunts, 283 defined, 52 first and second, single hits, 268–270 fly ball for, 252 first and third, single hits, 265–267 safety. See also injuries first, double plays, 174, 175–176 in batting cage, 109 first, sacrifice bunts, 282 for bunting practice, 143 first, single hits, 265–267 catcher equipment for, 31 sacrifice bunts, 281–283 coach’s responsibility for, 15–16 second, sacrifice bunts, 283 for drills, 230, 234 second, single hits, 268–270 first-aid kit for, 289–291 third, double plays, 174 for heat and sun, 303–304 running hydration for, 305, 307–308 basic form for, 148 inspecting equipment for, 32 for pre-game warm-up, 108 inspecting field for, 106, 111 as punishment, avoiding, 321 league paperwork regarding, 63–64 running bases. See also sliding; stealing limiting throwing for, 234 bases not getting hit by pitch, 249 avoiding double plays, 154 in on-deck circle, 248 base coaches, 256–258 opposing coach encouraging unsafe play, basic running form, 148 316–317 30_089606 bindex.qxp 2/21/07 6:59 PM Page 357

Index 357

pitching limitations for, 41, 42 traits and skills of, 78 protecting catcher’s throwing hand, troubleshooting, 179 201–202 shy kids sliding head-first banned for, 41, 156 communicating with, 23 in sliding practice, 155 working with, 81–82 stopping a game for, 317 side-hurdle stretch, 293 tracking storms for, 303 signs. See hand signals scared kids. See fear singles, defined, 45. See also fielding scheduling singles giving copies to parents, 65, 91 sliders, age for pitching, 195 makeup games, 26 sliding practice frequency and duration, 90 bent-leg technique, 155–156 practices, policies for, 26–27 to break up double plays, 158, 254 practices well in advance, 13 defined, 48 scoreboard drills for, 214–215 goal board versus, 24 into first base, 149 minding when stealing bases, 256 hand signals for, 114 not best indicator of progress, 120 head-first, league rules against, 41, 156 scorebook, keeping, 53 head-first technique, 156–157 scrimmaging, 92, 103 hook technique, 158–159 seated spinal stretch, 293 importance of, 154 second base, running from, 254 injury risk with, 155, 156, 157, 159 second baseman. See also infield pop-up technique, 157–158 double-play techniques, 174–176 short of base, 159 in drag bunt play, 144 tagging out sliders, 169 drills for, 220–221 teaching on grass, 155 ready position, 174 troubleshooting, 159 responsibilities of, 50, 174 Slow Roller drill, 217–218 symbol in diagrams, 260 snacks, 306, 307 traits and skills of, 78 socks, 30 troubleshooting, 176 Soft Toss drill, 109, 211–212 shaking hands softball versus baseball, 42 with opponents, 24, 117 special-needs kids with opposing coach, 106 alerting umpires about, 106 sharing bases, not allowed, 47 asking opposing coach about, 106 shin guards for catcher, 31 asking parents about, 69 shin splints, 299 working with, 85–86 shoes, 29 Speed Hitting drill, 231 short attention span, 82–83, 125, 210, 325 Speedy Double Plays drill, 238–239 Short Hoppers drill, 219–220 spikes or cleats shortstop. See also infield policies regarding, 29 drills for, 221–223 removing for sliding practice, 155 fielding ground balls, 177–179 sliding injury risk from, 156 ready position, 177 spine, injuries involving, 301 responsibilities of, 50, 177 sportsmanship symbol in diagrams, 260 awards for, 331 throwing to first, 177, 179 modeling good, 24 30_089606 bindex.qxp 2/21/07 6:59 PM Page 358

358 Coaching Baseball For Dummies

sportsmanship (continued) mid-season review, 123–128 by parents in the stands, 61–63 offense, 247–258 poor, by opposing coach, 317–318 for positions in the field, 50 as pre-game meeting focus, 110 preventing runs, 284 programs for parents, 310 protecting a lead, 284–285 recognizing in post-game talk, 118 for pull hitters, 285–286 toward opposing coaches, 106, 117 recognizing improvements, 120–122 toward umpires, 106, 116, 117, 331 revising during the season, 122–123 winning and losing gracefully, 116–117 for running bases, 252–255, 256–258 sprains, treating, 298 shifting players before the pitch, 284–286 square stance for batting, 136–137 for stealing bases, 255–256 stance or ready position strengths. See also evaluating skills for batting, 135–137, 146 identifying, 75 catcher, 199–202 maximizing, 50 first baseman, 171 tweaking drills for, 95 infield players, 162–163 stretching. See also warm-ups outfield players, 182–183 consistency in, 95 pitcher, 192–193 exercises, 293–294 second baseman, 174 injuries prevented by, 292 shortstop, 177 pre-game warm-up, 108 for tagging base runners, 168 Strike Challenge drill, 216 third baseman, 179–180 strike zone standing spine twist, 293 bat travel through, 139 stealing bases corner of, 51 catcher’s defense against, 204–205 defined, 44, 135 covering bases on attempts at, 169 spanned by catcher, 199 drill for, 233–234 throwing too high in, 198 league rules for, 41–42 , defined, 52 banned for youngest kids, 40 tips for, 255–256 defined, 46 stopping a game for safety, 317 strikes storms, tracking, 303 okay to take, 249 strains, treating, 298 rules for, 44 strategies when bunting, 142 for achieving goals, 126–127 struggling kids for batting, 247–252 analyzing problems, 324–325 coaching runners on base, 256–258 helping during practices, 99–100 covering sacrifice bunts, 281–283 physical issues, 145, 325–326 covering shallow outfield, 278–281 substitutions dealing with team dynamics, 119–123 batting order with, 43 defense, 259–286 league policies for, 115 for fielding doubles and triples, 271–277 in lopsided games, 117 for fielding singles, 261–269 overview, 114–115 getting feedback from parents, 128–129 pinch hitter, 52 handling weaknesses, 122 pinch runner, 52 mid-game adjustments, 115 unlimited for youngest kids, 41 30_089606 bindex.qxp 2/21/07 6:59 PM Page 359

Index 359

sun exposure/sunburn, 304 third baseman. See also infield swinging the bat, 137–140. See also batting drills for, 223–224 Swiping Bases drill, 233–234 handling hard-hit balls, 181 handling slow-moving balls, 180, 181 ready position, 179–180 • T • responsibilities of, 50 symbol in diagrams, 260 rules for, 46, 47 traits and skills of, 78 tagging base runners, 168–169 troubleshooting, 180–181 tagging up threats, avoiding, 22 defined, 48, 53, 151 three-strike discipline technique, 322–323 hand signals for, 153 Throw Home drill, 240–241 reminding players about, 254 throwing. See also pitcher and pitching technique for, 152–153 backhand toss, 176 taking a pitch, defined, 53 cutoff throws, 260, 261 tardiness, 320 double-play techniques, 175–176 Target Throws drill drills for infield, 220, 222–224, 238–240 for outfielders, 225–226 drills for outfield, 225–226, 240–241 for pitcher, 236 to first by shortstop, 177, 179 taunts, avoiding, 116 by , 165–167 T-ball. See also age; coach’s pitch limiting drills for safety, 234 programs by outfielders, 188–189 batting drill, 212–213 pre-game warm-up, 108–109 batting order for, 79–80 during rundowns, 169 coaching philosophy for, 18 troubleshooting, 170, 176, 179, 181 described, 28 underhand toss, 175–176 field placement for kids, 39–40 Tip icon, 5 field size reduced for, 39 tooth knocked out, 300 hand signals not needed for, 113 top half of inning, 43 practice frequency and duration, 90 tornado dangers, 303 shoes for, 29 trading cards, team, 340 shorter games for, 41 travel teams, 28 T-ball Target drill, 212–213 triceps shoulder stretch, 294 team parent, 68 , 53 team shirts, 31 triples, 45. See also fielding doubles team trainer, 68 or triples teamwork trips with kids, 342 building bonds, 21 trophy coordinator, 68 cheering successful plays, 20 troubleshooting dugout enthusiasm, 20 batting, 145–147 emphasizing, 20–21 bunting, 147 spreading ’s role around, 20–21 catcher, 207–208 terminology, 51–53 first base, 173–174 third base infield, 170 coaching runners on, 256, 257–258 outfield, 189–190 running from, 255 pitching, 198–199 30_089606 bindex.qxp 2/21/07 6:59 PM Page 360

360 Coaching Baseball For Dummies

troubleshooting (continued) establishing habits for, 209 running bases, 153 evaluating skills during, 74 second base, 176 Infield/Outfield Practice drill for, 235 shortstop, 179 injuries prevented by, 292 sliding, 159 pre-game, 107–110 third base, 180–181 stretching, 108, 292–294 twists, treating, 298 tips for, 294–295 two-out innings, 41 for younger kids, 292 Warning! icon, 5 water, 92, 307–308 • U • weaknesses. See also evaluating skills umpires dealing with, 122 alerting to special-needs kids, 106 identifying, 75 blaming, avoiding, 116 recognizing improvements, 120–122 discussing unsafe play with, 317 taking advantage of other team’s, 50 home-plate, adapting to calls of, 115 tweaking drills for, 95 parents as, 69 working on, in lopsided games, 117 pre-game meeting with, 106–107 weather thanking after the game, 117 heat, 303–304 yelling at, 62 makeup games, 26 uncoordinated kids, working with, 82 storms, 303 underhand toss for double plays, 175–176 win-at-all-cost parents, 310–311 upper-back stretch, 294 wind knocked out, 299 winning defining importance of, 23 • V • downplaying, 21 violence, avoiding, 315 as giving best effort, 21 visors, 31 goal board versus scoreboard, 24 visualizing success, 331 good sportsmanship in, 116–117 vocabulary, 51–53 lopsided games, 117 not best indicator of progress, 120 as part of learning, 23 • W • protecting a lead, 284–285 shaking hands with opponents, 24, 117 walks win-at-all-cost parents, 310–311 base on balls, defined, 51 wrists defined, 44 forearm and wrist stretch, 293 as good as hits, 249 stiff when batting, 145 intentional, 52 as sign of losing control, 250 warm-ups activities for, 294 consistency in, 95