Minnetonka Baseball

Coaching Guide

2009 Version 1 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide

Objectives ...... 4 Minnetonka Coaching Philosophies ...... 5 Responsibilities of Coaches ...... 6 Age Appropriate Skills ...... 7 Warm-ups...... 12 Defensive Skills ...... 14 Pitcher ...... 14 Catcher ...... 19 Infield...... 23 Outfield ...... 28 Offensive Skills...... 30 Hitting ...... 30 Bunting...... 36 Addressing Batting Issues...... 38 Common Batting Issues ...... 39 Base Running...... 41 Sliding...... 42 Batter and Runner Signs ...... 43 Covering and Backing Up...... 44 Defenses for Bunts, Steals, and Picks...... 51 Drills ...... 59 Hitting Drills ...... 59 Pitching Drills ...... 61 Infield Drills...... 62 Outfield Drills ...... 64 Throwing Drills...... 67 Situational Drills...... 68 Infield – the Skipper Way...... 70 Step 1 – “Star” ...... 70 Step 2 – “Show & Go”...... 70 Step 3 – “Ground Outs” ...... 71 Step 4 – “Double Plays” ...... 72 Step 5 – “Back Deep” ...... 73 Step 6 – “Slow Roller”...... 73 Step 7 – “Cut Him Down” ...... 74 Practices ...... 75 Sample Practice Plan #1...... 76 Sample Practice Plan #2...... 77 Sample Game Day Routine...... 78 Coaching Decisions ...... 79 Interaction with Players, Umpires, and Parents...... 84 Equipment...... 87 Resources ...... 93 Blank Form - Batting Order / Positions...... 94

Version 1 2 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide

April 8, 2009

To All 2009 Tonka Coaches:

The season of your leadership is about to begin. How exciting this is for you and will be for the young men that you will be guiding during the 2009 campaign! You are the right person at the right time for this baseball instruction and coaching.

This playbook should help you with the “X’s & O’s” to managing your squad. I applaud the efforts of the coaches who contributed to making this playbook look as professional as anything that I have ever seen at any level.

As a coach, you may think it is your job to make your team the best that they can be. This is right but it is not the only thing that will be on your plate this year. It is your job to make this experience enjoyable, coordinated, orderly, and respectful to all --- players, umpires, and those who watch. Finally, you will stand as a role model for all to see how this game of baseball should be played.

The players are looking for your discipline as to how they handle personal and team success as well as the failure that is so much a part of this game. Make this a fun learning experience for your team and most importantly…for yourself. If you are having fun, the players are having fun!

I wish you all well and “Thank You” again for stepping to the forefront to being a BASEBALL COACH! This is a great game and a privilege to be part of it. Remind your players of the reason why they are special: “If this game were easy, everyone would play.” They are playing because they are capable of playing baseball and they love playing…anytime!

Yours in Baseball,

Paul O. Twenge Head Baseball Coach

Version 1 3 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Objectives

This handbook is intended as a coaching aid for volunteer coaches in the Little League and Babe Ruth programs that feed into the Minnetonka High School baseball program. The content for this guide was gathered primarily from MHS Coach Paul Twenge. Thanks also to the volunteer coaches who contributed content and helped with the editing process.

Another objective of this handbook is to begin to formalize the fundamentals taught in the “feeder programs”. Ideally, all baseball players will have proper throwing mechanics, experience with key drills (e.g., Infield the Skipper way), and experience with key plays by the time they reach high school age.

Much of the content in this handbook is geared for the high school athlete. However, the fundamentals, when broken down into basic techniques and drills, apply at all levels of play. Each section will attempt to identify the age-appropriate skills or drills. The coach must select the content that is appropriate for his team.

Please send suggestions for corrections or additional content to [email protected] .

Version 1 4 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Minnetonka Coaching Philosophies

All the various mission and value statements stress fun, positive, learning experiences and the development of our youth beyond just athletic skills.

Minnetonka High School Baseball:

Minnetonka Baseball Teams will be good sons, good citizens, good leaders, good students, good teammates, and the first team on the field - first team off the field – first player waiting for the opponent’s pitcher to pitch. We will be ready to play!

Tonka Babe Ruth Mission Statement (draft): Tonka Babe Ruth, Inc. is dedicated to providing an open and supportive developmental baseball experience for all interested children in the Minnetonka school district; and providing a competitive program for players preparing for the Minnetonka HS baseball team.

STLL Mission Statement: South Tonka Little League is a program of service to the youth of our community. It is geared to provide an outlet of healthful activity and training under good leadership in an atmosphere of wholesome community participation.

South Tonka Baseball is dedicated to helping children become good and decent citizens. It strives to inspire them with goals and to enrich their lives towards the day when they must take their places in the world. It establishes for them the rudiments of teamwork and fair play.

ETLL Mission and Values: Mission - Provide a great baseball experience for children at every ability and experience level.

Values - As officials, coaches and parents we strive to: • Put safety above everything • Keep it fun – these are our children and it’s just a game • Develop the baseball skills of every child • Instill respect for the game including teammates, opponents, umpires and coaches • Encourage involvement of everyone who wants to play, coach or support the kids

Our Measure of Success: Kids are enthusiastic to come back and play next year.

Version 1 5 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Responsibilities of Coaches

It’s about the kids. Coaches, both formal and volunteer, are responsible for player development and team development through positive instruction and hands-on player experiences.

Coaches are expected to leverage the coaching resources available in the specific baseball program and to encourage players to seek opportunities for skills improvement in the community as well. Furthermore, coaches are encouraged to communicate with other coaches to share techniques, challenges, and philosophies of player development.

An excellent online course is available from the Babe Ruth League Coaching Education Center at www.baberuthcoaching.org. Some leagues require their coaches to pass a basic coaching course - Coaching Youth Baseball: The Ripken Way for Babe Ruth Coaches. While the title may imply Babe Ruth level material, virtually all of the material is applicable to Little League.

Specifically, coaches are asked to: - Focus on the learning experience for the player. - Focus on creating self-thinking players. - Attend clinics/meetings to share lessons learned and create continuity in coaching. - Participate in the coach certification process and other skill improvement activities supported by your specific league. - Adhere to the codes of conduct and enforce them on the team. - Attend all practices/games – make formal plans for coverage if you must be away. - Directly maintain or delegate the keeping of accurate records (e.g., waivers, attendance, game record, player stats).

Guidelines for teaching the game: - Stress a positive attitude and look at every situation in a positive light. Any situation is 10% what happens and 90% how you deal with it. - Demand the best. Players play to a coach’s expectation, so challenge the players to go farther than they think they can and push them beyond. - Stress a team concept. In everything we do, we must emphasize that no individual is more important than the team. - Use the “sandwich” method to critique a player. This approach involves placing two positive statements around the correction. The player is more receptive to the correction and can still feel positive. - Be aggressive at all times. Players showing initiative allows the coaching staff to accomplish more. - Never choose to embarrass a player. When handling a potential problem, conduct a 1:1 meeting. - Praise greatness. For many players, this is all the motivation they need. Don’t let great plays go unnoticed. - Teach by progression. Use one skill to build on another. - Observe the law of accumulation – little things lead to big things, both good and bad.

Version 1 6 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Age Appropriate Skills

Age Comment: The approximate, desired skill progression for youth baseball players is shown in the next few pages. Bear in mind that young players will develop physically and mentally at different rates. Regardless of how hard they throw or how fast they run, players should be able to demonstrate proper technique in specific baseball fundamentals.

Tee Ball

Understand the basic rules of the game: - Run to the proper place when the ball is hit - Touch all the bases - Run past 1 st base when appropriate - Learn how runs can be scored - Look at the base coaches - Understand the concept of three outs and the teams switch

Demonstrate the throwing basics: - Front shoulder points at the target - Throwing elbow above shoulder - Step towards target and throw

Demonstrate fielding basics: - Watch the ball into the glove - Cover the ball in the glove with the bare hand - Try to catch the ball in front of the body - Understand how to get an out (force at 1 st base, tag on a runner, ball caught in the air)

Demonstrate hitting basics: - Always wear a helmet - Only swing when in the batters box or batting cage - Hold the bat with hands together - Stand sideways to the pitcher - Hit off a tee - Try to hit soft toss

Teamwork - Field only the balls that come to you

Version 1 7 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Early Little League

Understand the basic rules of the game: - Understand balls and strikes - Know when a base runner must run and when he can stay put - Know not to run past another base runner - Understand force outs - Demonstrate when and how to tag up - Understand when to round 1 st base

Demonstrate the throwing basics: - Demonstrate initial four-seam grip (may use entire hand) - Point the front shoulder, step, and throw - Introduce follow-through after release

Demonstrate fielding basics: - See both the glove and the ball - Fingers up for balls above the waist; fingers down for balls below the waist - Use two hands - Demonstrate fielding ground balls to both forehand and backhand - Demonstrate 1 st base mechanics (straddle, see throw, stretch) - Demonstrate crossover and drop step

Demonstrate hitting basics: - Use proper grip (knocking knuckles) - Hit live pitches - Get used to batting drills (tee, soft toss drills, batting cage work) - Move to a load position when the pitcher begins his delivery - Demonstrate navel turned towards pitcher after swing

Teamwork: - Understand the positions and base coverage responsibilities - Begin working on coverage and backup responsibilities if the ball isn’t hit to you - Demonstrate basic relay throws

Version 1 8 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Late Little League

Understand the rules of the game: - Understand hitter’s count versus pitcher’s count - Understand infield fly rule - Understand balks

Demonstrate base running techniques: - Demonstrate straight steals and delayed steals - Understand 1 st and 3 rd situations as a base runner - Demonstrate techniques for extra-base hits (glance to outfield if ball in front, glance to 3 rd base coach if ball behind, etc) - Demonstrate straight, feet-first sliding technique

Demonstrate the pitching and throwing basics: - Demonstrate four-seam grip, two-seam grip, and change-up grip - Pitchers begin demonstrating both fast balls and change-ups

Demonstrate fielding basics: - See both the glove and the ball, catch in front of the body - Align feet and throw to the neck of the target - Demonstrate basic double play footwork - Catchers demonstrate blocking techniques and throws to all bases

Demonstrate hitting basics: - Accustomed to drill work (tee, soft toss, front toss, etc) - Demonstrate pitch selection - Begin to hit inside pitches to LF, outside pitches to RF - Demonstrate the fundamentals of bunting

Teamwork: - Demonstrate base coverage and backup responsibilities on every hit (everyone moves) - Demonstrate basic cutoffs and relays - Demonstrate basic bunt defenses - Demonstrate basic 1 st and 3 rd plays - Demonstrate how to defend the steal - Demonstrate how to conduct a run-down

Version 1 9 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Early Babe Ruth

Demonstrate base running techniques: - Demonstrate proper leads at all bases - Understand 1 st and 3 rd situations - Demonstrate techniques for straight steals and delayed steals - Demonstrate how to get back to 1 st base

Demonstrate the pitching and throwing: - Demonstrate four-seam grip, two-seam, and change-up pitches - Demonstrate follow through (following the throw) on all throws - Demonstrate pitching mechanics using the whole body - Demonstrate hold and pickoff basics - Accustomed to long toss work

Demonstrate fielding: - Generate momentum towards target - Demonstrate double play depth - Demonstrate infield communication (plays, coverages, reading the batter, etc) - Demonstrate double play footwork - Demonstrate pitcher covering 1 st base - Catchers demonstrate signal calling and play calling

Demonstrate hitting: - Accustomed to drill work (tee, soft toss, front toss, etc) - Accustomed to selecting pitches based on count and coach signs - Begin to practice situational hitting (hit and run, sacrifice bunts, bunt for hit, etc)

Teamwork: - Demonstrate base coverage and backup responsibilities on every hit (everyone moves) - Demonstrate pickoff plays - Demonstrate bunt defenses - Demonstrate 1 st and 3 rd plays - Demonstrate cut plays - Demonstrate run-down techniques with runners on base

Version 1 10 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Late Babe Ruth

Demonstrate base running techniques: - Demonstrate one-way leads - Demonstrate breaking on pitcher’s first move - React to hits - Understand tag-up situations - Understand 3 rd base rules - Understand no-out, one-out, and two-out rules

Demonstrate the pitching and throwing: - Demonstrate four-seam grip, two-seam, change-up, and breaking pitches - Continue long toss work - Demonstrate throwing for accuracy – all distances - Demonstrate pitching mechanics using the whole body

Demonstrate fielding: - Ability to adapt to playing conditions (field, weather, etc) - Fence drill for outfield - Do-or-Die plays at the plate - Preventing extra bases

Demonstrate hitting: - Accustomed to drill work (tee, soft toss, front toss, etc) - Accustomed to selecting pitches based on count and coach signs - Demonstrate situational hitting - Demonstrate aggressive versus defensive swings

Teamwork: - Demonstrate cutoffs and relays (including trailers) - Demonstrate advanced pickoff plays (daylight, called by fielders) - Demonstrate full bunt defenses

Version 1 11 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Warm-ups

Age Comment: Players of all ages require time to warm up their muscles before exertion. Although the very young player may not actually require stretching to avoid injury, getting the team into the habit of stretching before exertion is important.

Stretching - Stretch slowly to a point of mild tension, not to the point of pain - Relax, breathe slowly, and stay under control as you hold the stretch - Do not bounce up and down in any stretch - Hold each stretch for 20-60 seconds - in the last half of the stretch move further until you feel a new point of mild tension - If muscle tension does not diminish after 15 seconds, ease off slightly - Respect the body positioning required for each stretch - Start from the ground up - finish with the shoulder and arm stretches - Do not perform a stretch that is painful

Leg stretches - Wide stance, head as close to knee as possible, repeat on other side - Hurdlers stretch, both legs - Toe touch, hang at bottom of stretch

Shoulder stretches - Arm horizontal under chin, pull elbow with opposite hand, maintain pressure for 20s - Sleeper stretch. Lay down on throwing side, elbow perpendicular to torso. Using other hand, push throwing wrist towards ground (throwing hand should move towards feet). Hold for 30 seconds, rest, and repeat 4 more times. - While standing, arms horizontal from body, create little circles, both ways.

Jog / Run - Jog to the foul pole and back - Sprint (in outfield) from foul line to approx 2 nd base, sprint back

Throwing - Wrist snap – with throwing elbow resting on glove and throwing arm in a 90-degree position. Toss ball to partner using the wrist. - Twist snap – stand approx 30 feet apart. Take a wide stance, rotate throwing arm back so shoulders are inline with target (partner). Throwing arm should be in a 90- degree position and glove elbow should be at shoulder height, pointed at partner. Twist the torso to complete the throw at 50% velocity. Gradually increase distance to base path length. Add bending from the waist to increase velocity to 75%. - Two-step throw – stand approx 50 feet apart from target. Turn sideways to the target. Take a small step forward with the throwing side foot and then stride towards the target with the other foot. Concentrate on 75% velocity throws to the partner’s glove.

Version 1 12 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide - Gradual long toss – continue the two-step throw and gradually increase distance while maintaining accuracy. If accuracy diminishes, move back closer.

If batting warm-ups are possible: - Three bunts - 9 swings (3 pitches inside, 3 center, 3 outside)

Special note: Exercises designed to strengthen rotator cuff muscles are not just exercises for pitchers. Rather, the exercises are for any athlete who participates in a sport with repetitive overhand motions (e.g., baseball, tennis, volleyball). See your league coach development representative or physical therapist for guidance.

Version 1 13 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Defensive Skills

Some skills and techniques are applicable to a baseball player regardless of age. In other instances, techniques are offered for players of varying experience. Coaches must rely on their own judgment in determining how fast to bring along a team.

Pitcher

Age Comment: Much of the content below is geared for the upper level pitcher. Younger players are encouraged to develop proper form for throwing. With proper throwing mechanics and consistent form, more advanced pitching techniques can be readily applied. As with any repetitive action, consistency in form allows for control and accuracy.

Youth pitchers should focus on developing proper form and control of their fastball. As they age, add the change-up. When in the Babe Ruth years, and if the other two pitches are solid, add a breaking ball. Control of a fastball is more important than an arsenal of pitches that can’t be thrown reliably for a strike.

Successful pitchers have a number of common attributes: confidence, concentration, and athleticism. Pitchers must be confident in their pitches and in their ability to get hitters out. They must assert themselves on the mound and challenge the hitters. Pitchers can’t dwell on the last pitch. They must block out distractions and concentrate on the task and on the target. Finally, pitchers must have general muscle flexibility, power, and endurance throughout the game.

Sample Pre-Game Routine: The pitcher’s pre-game preparation begins 45 to 60 minutes prior to game time. 0:05 Jog to increase blood flow 0:10 Standard stretching routine 0:05 Loosen up by playing catch (longest distance is 120’) 0:10 Begin overhand throwing from the mound. Work into full motion. 0:15 Warm-up pitches. Start with fastball, concentrating on mechanics and location. Next work each pitch until it feels comfortable and consistent. Finally, mix pitches as if you were throwing to a hitter. Work full windup first (60%) and then the stretch (40%). 0:05 Meet with catcher to review signs and the game plan

Version 1 14 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide The Pitching Game Plan: Establish a pitching game plan for the opposing hitters requires consideration of the following factors: . The pitcher’s strengths and weaknesses . The opposing hitter’s strengths, weaknesses and tendencies . The opposing base runner’s abilities and tendencies During the game, factors such as the score, the inning, the count on the batter, the quality of a particular pitch that day, and the pitcher’s fatigue level all influence pitch selection and location.

A very basic pitching game plan might be: - Throw low fastballs, inside corners, and outside corners to find the umpire’s zone - Try inside and outside corners to see if the pitcher has control - If control is there, flash signals to catcher or allow catcher to call the game - If control isn’t great, rely solely on speed - fastball and off-speed pitches - Pitch the larger hitters low and outside (but still within the strike zone) - On a pitcher’s count with two strikes, throw the high fastball - If a batter can’t catch up to the fastball, keep throwing it.

For the younger pitchers, their best pitch is the one they can throw for a strike. It’s OK to have the batter hit the ball. Nobody expects dominant pitchers and lots of strike outs. Putting the ball in play gets the rest of the defense involved and lets them do their jobs.

The confidant pitcher with challenge the hitters. Pitchers get in trouble when they try to be too fine early in a pitch count. They fall behind and get hit hard or give up a walk. - Challenge the hitter early to get that first or second pitch strike. - The 1-1 pitch is important because it tips the scale in your favor or in the hitter’s favor, and batting averages on 2-1 counts are much higher than on 1-2 counts. - Once you’re ahead, paint the corners. Target specific locations in or around the strike zone. The more ahead you are, the more finesse you can afford. An 0-2 count allows you to use two pitches to target a specific weak spot or to set up your strikeout pitch. - Be focused on your target - the smaller the target, the better your control. - Do not give the hitter too much credit (respect the hitter; don’t credit the hitter).

Setting up Hitters

Tilting - Move the ball up and down, in and out - Throw a hard pitch inside to move the hitter off the plate and improve the effectiveness of your outside pitches - Stay on the outside corner for a few pitches and then jam the hitter in

Patterns - Change patterns to keep the hitters from anticipating your strategy - Change the location of your first pitch the next time you face the hitter

Version 1 15 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide - Use different pitches in the same count from one batter to the next - Back-to-back tactics: if you missed outside on the first pitch, go back there. Also, back-to-back change-ups can be effective. - If you are in trouble with the hitter – stick to your change-up!

Location - Having good command of a pitch means you can throw to a specific area of the strike zone. - In counts where you are behind or even with the batter, you should throw the ball in the zone, ideally on a corner. - In counts where you are ahead you should throw to the outer edges of the strike zone, ideally with only a fraction of the ball crossing through the strike zone. - In counts where you are well ahead (0-2 or 1-2) you should throw just outside or inside of the strike zone, try to make the batter chase a bad pitch.

Pitching Absolutes 1. Balance and direction. Balance is essential to control the pitching delivery. All components of the delivery (arm action, stride, etc.) must be directed toward home plate. 2. Deception. The wind-up should keep the batter from being able to see the hand and ball for as long as possible. 3. Challenge the hitter. Get ahead in the count to keep all options open and prevent the hitter from zoning in on a specific pitch and location. 4. Location, location, location. Pitch command is far more important than velocity. Develop control to target specific locations in and out of the strike zone. 5. Change speeds and patterns. Better hitters look for and adapt quickly to patterns. Vary pitch selection, speed and location. 6. Create movement on the vertical and horizontal planes. A pitch that moves down and away (two-way movement) is much, much harder to hit. 7. Maximize velocity to apply pressure to the hitter and reduce his margin for error. 8. Work fast. A fast-paced pitcher impresses the opposing hitters and keeps the defensive players strong. Communicate well with the catcher so you do not have to constantly call him off and go through the entire series of pitches. 9. Study your opponents to find out their strengths, weaknesses and tendencies. Who swings at the first pitch, chases high pitches, is out ahead of everything, etc.?

Psychological Factors To Be Considered 1. A pitcher has to concentrate to concentrate- work to keep your mind on the game. 2. The game is never over until it is over- “Bear down on every pitch.” 3. Pitching is control and variation of speed. 4. Be the great stoneface: no facial expressions, no glove gestures, no feet gestures, and no body gestures. 5. Never acknowledge the other dugout. Never look in there. Remember that no batter has ever hit the ball with his mouth.

Version 1 16 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide 6. A successful pitcher gets good movement on his pitches. 7. Be good at throwing to bases, but be great at throwing to home. 8. Do not pitch against your team - work together to defend the hitter 9. Never second-guess the catcher, if things backfire - you are pitching the game. 10. Sit with the catcher as often as you can between innings; go over the game, hitters, etc. Go over the pitching chart and note what you threw and how each hitter performed. 11. Know the geography of the field and pitch accordingly. 12. Do not let the elements bother you; always think of them as a psychological advantage. Example: a. Cold – great day for a pitcher. My catcher and I will the only warm ones in the park. I cannot wait to throw on the batters’ fists because hitters do not want to hit on a day like this. b. Hot- great day for a pitcher. Humidity will really get me loose and help my breaking balls. c. Windy- great day to pitch. My fastball will have great movement, and my breaking ball a lot more break. d. Wind blowing in - great day for the pitcher. I will throw more strikes and use my fastball to my advantage; it is not going to go anywhere even if they hit it. My changeup will be even more effective. 13. There is no universal way to pitch to a hitter. Study the stance, swing, and bat position as well as any known weaknesses. 14. Work your fastball a lot in the earlier innings and mix in more movement pitches as the game progresses. 15. There is no such thing as a wasted pitch. One pitch sets up another. When ahead try to hit a corner, or even miss it and get the batter to chase. 16. Work on your changeup! Keep your motion the same. 17. Pitching is throwing a ball to a particular location. The more practice, the more control one has. 18. The more physically fit one is, the better one feels mentally. 19. It is an “old wives’ tale” that lifting weight hurts a pitcher. Weight lifting is the answer in all athletics! Be as strong, both mentally and physically, as you can!!

Setting Pitching Goals

1. Pitchers should set very specific goals that are within their reach. 2. The individual pitcher can impose his will on his thoughts and acts. He cannot impose his will on bad hops, bad umpiring, bad defense, or wind direction. 3. Goals should be adjusted based on the degree of progress made. If little or no progress has been made, the goal set was probably too high. There is no “failure” implied by an adjustment of a goal. 4. One of the purposes of setting goals is to help encourage the pitchers to be more confident, as a result of individual daily achievement.

Version 1 17 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide 5. A pitcher will bring on difficulties if he allows the expectations of others to become his goals. He must learn to distinguish the difference and approach his goal-setting appropriately. 6. The following are examples of goals that might be long or short depending upon the needs and inclinations of the individual: a. Throw inside more often and at appropriate times b. Improve a specific pitch through concentrated work in the bullpen and a willingness to throw it with conviction in appropriate game situations. c. Be more aggressive early in counts. d. Improve the ability to hold runners (better move to 1B, varying moves, quicker to the plate – under 1.2, without negatively effecting control) e. Improve a specific fielding technique (e.g., ball down the 3B line). f. When ahead in count, finish hitters in 3 pitches or less. g. Pitchers should set goals with input from coaches. h. Express goals in positive language rather than in language that dictates what he does not want to do. “I want to attack the strike zone” rather than “I don’t want to walk guys”. i. Prioritize goals according to need. j. Put in writing. k. Keep record of progress. l. Be reasonable in the evaluation. m. An unattainable goal should be abandoned. n. Understand that goals relate to performance, not self-worth. Failure to reach a goal does not make him a failure.

Checklist of Pitching 1. Be consistent in your windup. 2. Keep the ball hidden throughout the delivery. 3. Make a good pivot, keeping the foot parallel to the rubber. 4. Retain your weight during the pivot. 5. Use your hips properly - Activate them! 6. Have a well-balanced leg lift - don’t start the kick too soon. 7. Keep your eyes fixed on the target - CONCENTRATE 8. Do not over stride. 9. Drive off from the rubber – get a good thrust. 10. Open up the stride and unlock the hips – don’t throw across the body. 11. Do not rush the stride. 12. Have good rhythm – put it all together. 13. Use strong wrist and finger action. 14. Throw strikes – stay ahead of the hitter. 15. Be quick with top part of your body – whip the arm through. 16. Use a comfortable and natural arm angle. 17. Create a consistent point of release. 18. Follow-through in a natural manner.

Version 1 18 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide

Catcher

Age Comment: Much of the content below is geared for the upper level catcher. Younger players are encouraged to develop proper form for both “no runners on base” and “runners on base” with an emphasis on safety. As catchers progress, the focus gradually includes proper blocking, tagging, and throwing to bases. Upper level catchers will also call pitches and defenses.

Basic catcher stance: - To flash signs to the pitcher o Torso upright o Glove open near left knee to block vision from 3 rd base coach o Fingers against cup so only the pitcher and middle infielders can see signs - With no runners on base, get comfortable and low o Right hand behind back or under right leg, with thumb tucked o Glove hand thumb down elbow out o Coaches might ask the catcher to always block dirt balls - With runners on base, sit a little higher o Stay on toes with butt elevated and back flat or parallel to ground o Right hand is now behind the glove (for a quick ball transfer) with thumb tucked

Catching the ball: - Soft hands are critical o Glove should be worn loosely o No tension in wrist or arm (can’t have soft hands if the arm is taut) o Thumb down o Grasp the ball o Advanced players may turn the hand slightly clockwise when closing the glove to allow the wrist to loosen - If possible, “frame” the pitch o Framing helps make the pitch look better to the umpire. The objective is to keep as much of the glove as possible in the strike zone and still catch the pitch. o Move the glove around an imaginary “C” (picture the “C” on its side, opening down). Rather than moving the entire arm to reach a pitch, turn the glove around the “C”. The catcher’s arm remains in the initial position and the pitch looks better. o Any time the catcher must turn the glove palm-side up, the umpire knows the ball is too low. If possible, catch a low pitch with the glove in the thumb-down position. If the pitch is still too low, block the ball.

Version 1 19 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide

Blocking the ball: - Keep ball in front of you using “C” shaped legs and back. The knees form one end of the “C”, the top of the catcher’s helmet forms the other end. - The catcher should tuck his chin down and keep his eyes on ball. - Do not attempt to catch a dirt ball with the glove. The catcher should drop immediately to his knees and just block the ball. - Put the glove, open but on the ground, in the 5-hole (opening below the crotch), with the bare hand tucked behind and thumb tucked inside the other fingers. - Direct the ball back to home plate by letting it bounce off the chest protector. - Leave helmet on. - Jump to your feet immediately if runners are on base (or 3 rd strike in Babe Ruth). - Know which pitch is being thrown and the count.

Throwing to bases: - Pick off to 1 st base - only really works on pitch to the first base side of plate - Bunt down 1st base line – field the ball and clear your body from the baseline (need clear throwing lane to 1 st baseman). - Bunt towards mounds - circle either way. Make certain footwork and momentum is towards 1 st base. - Bunt towards 3 rd base line – Run directly to ball, field, shift weight, step and throw. - Throw to 2 nd base on a steal – Keep your body low and shoot towards second from the crouch. Footwork is right left throw. - Throw to 2 nd base on a bunt - Stay in control. Field ball. Footwork is still right left throw. - Throw to 3 rd base on a steal - Batter and pitch location determines the footwork. If an outside pitch – step in front of the hitter. If an inside pitch – step behind the hitter.

Receiving throws: - Play like a shortstop. - Catch the ball and hold glove closed with bare hand. - Protect your legs – keep armor towards the sliding path. - Tag with both hands and sweep away.

Catching pop-ups: - Pitch location determines where to look for ball. - Keep mask in hand until you find the ball, and then throw the mask to the side. - Face the backstop if possible as the ball will spin toward you. - Use two hands.

Version 1 20 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide

Sample Catcher Evaluation Checklist: - Stance o Feet – shoulder width apart, weight inside each foot. o Arms – relaxed, elbows outside knees (never resting on knees), outstretched (not stiff & locked) to the ball ready to receive. o Throwing hand – Relaxed behind glove with runner, by hip no runner o Body – set up to receive ball on corner of plate, in position to block ball in dirt, etc. o Upper body – proper position to receive pitch – tall for high pitch, low for low pitch. o Feet – alignment, good balance position, slightly angled if throw to base likely. o Head – near glove, facing directly toward pitcher, blink eyes just before pitch so you don’t blink while the ball is in flight.

- Giving the signal o Glove – outside, below left knee, blocking view of 3B coach. o Knees – narrow, to hide view from base coaches (kick heels out). o Signals – per coach, one for pitch, one for location, and others for misdirection. o Movement – after batter is in box, shift to frame location (sway to one side, step to side, or jump to side). o Fingers – stay even with legs when giving signal. Otherwise both dugouts will see signs below the catcher.

- Receiving the pitch o Hands – in position to receive the ball and make quick ball transfer. o Body – moves to receive ball with body behind the ball o Framing – hand arm action, pulls ball into strike zone o Ball Transfer – turns glove to throwing hand (glove is at axis of body, hands stay high in throwing position) o Feet – Moves behind ball, getting lead foot out first o Dirt balls – blocks ball with body, maintains body balance, upper body curls over ball, uses both hands

- Throwing o Explosive hop step, quickly into throwing position o Hands stay high for quick release and proper follow through o Overhand throw, short arm motion o Front leg firm and back leg follow through similar to pitching

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Catcher Defensive Plays 1. Fields bunts with two-handed scooping motion by the back foot, using the glove to sweep ball into the throwing hand. Prior to fielding bunt, the catcher aligns his feet in the throwing direction. 2. Backs up plays at 1B when no one is on 2B or 3B with less than 2 outs. 3. Communicates and lines up cut person for throws to plate. 4. Communicates to infield and calls plays in the infield. 5. Blocks balls on throw home. 6. Sets up 18 inches up the foul line, with left foot on line, and is squared to receive the throw home. 7. Places a two-handed tag on runner coming in at home, keeping the ball in the throwing hand if possible. 8. Demonstrates proper technique in blocking sliding runner. If possible, the catcher places his left foot on the foul line, pointed at 3B. The intent is to avoid exposing the inner thigh or knee of the left leg to the runner. Once the ball is caught, the catcher pushes towards the runner for the tag and drops to both knees. 9. Throws each pitch back to the correct shoulder of pitcher. 10. Throws knee high to the inside corner of the bag on steal of second. 11. Has a low inside throw to 1B and 3B on pick plays. 12. Has knowledge of pitching techniques and correctly calls the pitch for situations. 13. Communicates with the pitcher in a positive way. 14. Has knowledge of the opponents and batters’ weaknesses. 15. Works effectively with the umpire and is aware of the umpire’s strike zone. 16. Is aware of each pitcher’s strengths and weaknesses and is able to adjust calling the game accordingly.

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Infield

Age Comment: The basics of the ready position and fielding the ball are applicable to all ages. Basic double play mechanics are generally introduced in late Little League and then fully employed in Babe Ruth.

Ready-Set position - As the pitcher gets set, each infielder should walk into position / Right-Left - End with the glove foot slightly in front of throwing side foot - Keep the knees bent – a good athletic position - The fielder’s weight should be on the front half of the feet - Keep hands out in front of feet and open glove left of center - Always keep eyes on the ball while in a balanced position

Fielding the ground ball - Proper footwork o Right handed thrower steps are: Right, left, field – Right, left, throw o Left handed thrower steps are: Left, right, field – Left, right, throw - Secure the ball o Keep glove open to the ball – no pointing the glove up and flinging the wrist open at the last second. o Keep hands in front of your body (glove left of center on approach). o Approach ball on line with left foot if right-hand thrower. o Imagine a sheet of glass hanging down from your neck – Don’t let the ball break the glass! o Grasp the ball with the glove inside the gloveside foot, in front of big toe. o “Set the ball” by moving the glove out, up, & then in. o The throwing hand traps the ball in the glove. - Throwing the ball for an out o The target is 1 st baseman’s throat. o Push, right, left, & throw (step in front of glove side foot). o Make the fielding movement and the momentum towards 1B continuous. o If the speed of the grounder permits, take a “banana” route to the ball so momentum, and the lined up toes, are moving towards 1B when the glove closes on the ball.

When to field the ball - Experienced infielders will time their footwork to field the ball in one of two places: the short hop or the peak of bounce. - The short hop is a very predictable moment for a grounder. If the ball is fielded just as it leaves the ground, there is no opportunity for a bad hop. - At the peak of the bounce, the fielder can see the ball well and has his head up for the throw. - The worst moment to field a grounder is on the way down to the ground. The ball becomes harder and harder to reach and the fielder’s head goes down.

Version 1 23 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Techniques for specific ground balls - Ground ball hit directly at you o Play the ball; don’t let the ball back you up. If possible, catch the ball on the short hop to minimize the potential for a bad hop or skip. - Hard hit/sinking line drive o Open towards the ball and bend at the waist and knees to get your eyes lower. From a lower vantage point, the ball is easier to judge. - Glove side ground ball o Extend hands towards the ball. Try to field the ball inside the gloveside foot in front of the big toe. - Throwing side ground ball o Circle – if the ball speed permits, circle the ball (take a “banana” route) to align feet and have movement towards the base when fielding the ball. o Backhand Take an angle towards the ball (rather than a straight 90-degree angle) and field the ball inside the throwing side foot. If the ball is hit sharply, field the ball inside the glove side foot and swipe through the ball. Take some dirt! If the ball must be fielded outside the gloveside foot, take another step to plant the right foot, rise up , and use R, L, throw footwork. - Slow rolling ground ball o This fielding play takes lots of practice. The key is quickness – quick to the ball and a quick release. o Rules of thumb: If the ball is rolling, use the glove. If the ball is rolling to a stop or it’s a “do or die” situation, use the bare hand. o For the barehanded play, field the ball on the right side of the body and throw within one step after grabbing the ball. o If the ball is thrown off the right foot, the player should fall on his right side. This play must be practiced to get the 3 rd baseman accustomed to falling. o If the ball is thrown off the left foot, the 3 rd baseman should rise up (without slowing or stopping) and throw over the top. o The throw should be targeted up the line to lessen the chance of contact with the runner. - Laying out –90 degree angle ground ball o As the name implies, this is a diving stop. This angle to the ball is only used when there is no other opportunity to get the glove behind the ball. - Special wrong foot fielding o This type of fielding can occur with slow rollers and some double play situations. o In this type of fielding, the right foot ends up ahead of the left foot. The fielder must, push the glove and bare hand even farther forward.

Version 1 24 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Double Play Feeds and Turns

The footwork for these plays can be confusing for new middle infielders. The goal is to get the lead runner and, if possible, the runner at 1 st base. The key is quickness. Coaches should start with more simplistic plays and gradually add the others. Break the plays down into slow motion steps to emphasize the mechanics.

SS Feeds to 2B - Underhand toss o This toss is used when the ground ball is taking you towards 2B. o Clear ball from your glove so the 2 nd baseman can see it in your bare hand. o Start at knee with your hand and finish at shoulder. o Keep moving as you toss and run by 2B. - Rock’n’Go o This throw is used when a ground ball is hit directly (and hard) at the SS. o The SS clears the ball from his glove so the 2 nd baseman can see it. o SS shifts weight over his throwing side leg and throws from where he fields the ball. Note: the feet are already aligned towards 2B. - Wrong foot field o This throw is used when the SS has to come into the baseline to field o The SS clears the ball from his glove so the 2 nd baseman can see it. o Right/Left/Right/Left/Field o Shifts weight over glove side foot and throws from where he fields the ball. - Raise’n’Throw o Used when the ball is played by the backhand in front of the throwing side foot. o The SS clears the ball from his glove so the 2 nd baseman can see it. o The SS stands up & throws over the top. - Back Door o Used when ball is played by the backhand outside the glove side foot. o SS does a jump turn 180 degrees to face 2B. o The SS clears the ball from his glove so the 2 nd baseman can see it. o The SS throws over the top.

Version 1 25 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide 2B Feeds to SS - Underhand toss o Same as SS, but from the 2B side. - Drop knee o Used when the ball is hit sharply to 2 nd baseman o Drop glove-side knee toward the ground as you turn your chest towards the SS. Do not let the knee touch the ground . o The 2 nd baseman clears the ball from his glove so the SS can see it. o The 2 nd baseman throws over the top. - Option Feed o Used when ball is played in the baseline. o The 2 nd baseman takes a short step toward SS with throwing side foot. o He stays low & backhands the ball to SS. The ball is tossed with thumb pointed down . o This flip can travel up to 20ft with good strength. o The 2 nd baseman follows the throw. - Jump Turn o Used when ball is fielded inside the glove-side foot, going away from 2B. o Jump to turn inside toward 2B (180 degrees). o The 2 nd baseman clears the ball from his glove so the SS can see it. o The 2 nd baseman tries to keep weight on toes, focuses on the SS, and throws over the top. o The 2 nd baseman finishes falling forward towards SS as weight shifts to his front leg. - Back Door o Used when ball is fielded outside the glove foot, going away from 2B and towards RF. o Turn 180 degrees with back to infield. o The 2 nd baseman clears the ball from his glove so the SS can see it. o Keeping weight on toes, the 2 nd baseman focuses on the SS and throws over the top.

SS Double Play Footwork for Feeds from 2B - Get to 2B as fast as possible. - Take short steps around the bag - breakdown at the bag and keep feet moving. - Keep chest behind ball. - Give a good invite with both hands. - Expect a bad feed. - Out with two hands, in with two hands, out with one. - Step to throw with left foot. - Try to receive throw to the 1 st base side of 2B. - Right foot touches bag/kicks dirt on the bag - Practice footwork from different angles: o Throws from 2B coming to the bag o Throws from 1 st baseman (inside or outside) o Throws from catcher or pitcher

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2B Double Play Footwork for Feeds from SS - Get to 2B as fast as possible. - Take short steps around the bag - breakdown at the bag and keep feet moving. - Keep chest behind ball. - Give a good invite with both hands. - Expect a bad feed. - Out with two hands, in with two hands, out with one. - Left foot to bag/right foot to ball - Left foot off bag as you touch the ball - Step towards 1 st base with left foot. - Try to receive throw to the 1 st base side of 2B. - Right foot touches bag/kicks dirt on the bag - Practice footwork from different angles: o Throws from SS coming to the bag o Throws from 3rd baseman (inside or outside) o Throws from catcher or pitcher

Version 1 27 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide

Outfield

Age Comment: The basics of running to the ball, fielding the ball, and hitting cut-offs are applicable to all ages. More advanced players will learn fielding on the run, fielding off walls, and a variety of cut plays.

Outfield basics: - When a ground ball is fielded, you are the last line of defense. By getting down on one knee, you will reduce the chances of the ball getting by you due to a bad bounce. - With no runners on, catch the fly ball out in front and just above eye level. The ball should be caught on your glove side, with fingers to the sky. - With runners on base, catch the ball in a rotated position (turned sideways, ready to throw) o The footwork is step, catch, and throw. o If the ball is hit deep, the footwork is step, catch, skip step, and throw). - Run full speed to where the ball will land. Don’t drift slowly under the ball trying to follow it. - Outfielders run to back up a play or base on every hit.

Catching a fly ball: - It’s OK to catch a fly with one hand when chasing a ball down. - If at all possible, work from behind the ball. Catch the ball moving forward toward the infield. - Catch the ball with two hands, above and in front of the eyes. - Use the glove to protect eyes from the sun if needed. - If runners are on base and time permits, position for the throw as the ball drops.

Fielding a ground ball single: - Catch the ball first. - Catch the ball inside the glove-side foot, opposite knee down, if runners are not a threat to move up or score. - Catch the ball outside the glove-side foot if charging on a “do or die single”. - Work the glove from the ground up so the ball cannot roll under glove.

Ready position for the outfielder: - Outfielder faces straight to the hitter, not sideways. - As the pitcher delivers, outfielder has hands on thighs. - Do not track the ball from the pitcher to the plate. Rather, watch the hitter and the angle of his bat.

Relay throws to cutoff man: - Look for the cutoff man with arms up. - Throw the ball on a line, no rainbows. It’s OK if the ball bounces. - Try to hit the cutoff man in the neck. Don’t throw a “strike”. - Relay call system

Version 1 28 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide o Cut: relay man cuts and runs the ball to infield o One: relay cuts and throws to 1B o Two: relay cuts and throws to 2B o Three: relay cuts and throws to 3B o Relay: relay cuts and throws to home o Nothing said: let ball go through o Automatic cut: throw is off line

Playing the line drive: - Get below the ball (bend at the waist to better see the trajectory)

Call system between outfielders: - Ball, Ball, Ball! - Duty of non-catching fielder: “up”, “back”, distance to fence, position for rebound - Center fielder is the boss - Call early - Do not call someone off too late

Risk taking: - Do not dive at a ball if you have no chance of catching it. - You cannot throw out a runner without fielding the ball first. - Do not run up on a fly ball until you are sure of its depth.

Version 1 29 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Offensive Skills Hitting

Age Comment: The basics of hitting sound simple but can take an eternity to master. Younger players should focus on the mechanics of stance, hip turn, swing, and follow through. More advanced players will get into keeping “hands in”, hitting through the ball, and pitch selection discipline. Some of the descriptions below may get too technical for younger players. Lessons from an experienced coach or professional instructor can be extremely helpful.

Getting Ready to Bat: - Three batters ahead of you o Find your batting gloves, bat, and helmet o Think about what you are going to do - In the hole o Think mechanics o Feel the perfect swing o Positive self talk (pitcher is good, I am better. I’m going to get a hit) - On Deck o Time the pitcher o Watch the pre-motion for “tells” - In the Box o Enter the box and get to load exactly the same way every time o Stop thinking, just relax and swing the bat o Read the tells and react to the situation (see ball, hit ball)

Stance: - For the younger players, 5 – 9 yr olds, keep the concepts simple: “Four S’s”: o Stance – athletic position, feet even with shoulders, toes straight across, bat at 1-2 o’clock o Stride – pick up and place down front foot where it started (just want a weight shift) o Swing – keep bat barrel slightly above hands, squish the bug with the back foot o Statue – finish the swing with balance

- For the older players, more sophisticated concepts are appropriate. All hitters must achieve a comfortable and balanced stance. This stance will facilitate their view of the pitcher and ball, weight shifting, hitting the various pitches (inside, outside, high, low, off speed, etc) and avoiding pitches. o Head – the head is held level with the ground and turned so both eyes have full view of the pitcher . o Hands and arms – the hands are relaxed and held about chest high. The elbows are placed in a relaxed position, forming a wide triangle with the

Version 1 30 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide hands. The bat is held at 45 degrees, pointing the knob towards the opposite batters box. o Hips and knees – the hips are level with the ground and parallel or slightly closed, the knees are slightly flexed. o Trunk – the shoulders are level with the ground, parallel or slightly closed relative to home plate. There is a slight bend at the waist to shift the body weight to the front part of the feet. o Grip – to promote wrist action and bat speed, the bat is gripped in the middle knuckles of both hands with the bat handle resting on the pads located at the base of the fingers. o Feet – the back foot is pointed straight across the batters box, never angled towards the umpire.

Load: - Batters get to their load position, as pitchers are about to release the ball. The purpose of any stride is to shift the body weight to the back foot and to get the body into a launching or cocked position for the swing. - The front knee is slightly brought in to close the hips (away from the pitcher) and unload the front foot. - The trunk rotates in slightly, bringing the hands back 4-6 inches into a launching position. The head does not move up or down . Regardless of hitting styles and stances, all good hitters roughly end up in this position before they swing. - A low, short (4-8 inch) stride is taken toward the pitcher or the front foot simply raises and lowers. The weight is on the inside part of the partially closed front foot, to keep the weight back and the front side closed. - In the launch position, about 60% of the body weight is still on the back foot. - The head remains still , eyes focused on the ball.

Swing: - First recognize the ultimate location of the pitch and confirm the decision to swing. It’s “Yes, Yes, Yes, and NO”, not “No, No, No, YES.” Think hit, not walk. - Initiate the swing with a powerful hip rotation to the ball. On the backside, pivot on the ball of the foot and flex the knee into an “L” shape to release the back hip and allow rotation forward. - Shift the weight onto a flexed but firm front leg, to push against the back leg and generate powerful hip rotation. - Pull the hands, ahead of the bat, past the body. To this point, keep the back elbow bent and held comfortably away from the body. - Drive the barrel of the bat through the hitting zone with a powerful extension of the back elbow and a push (top hand) and pull (bottom hand) action of the hands. - At contact, the palm of the top hand is facing the ball. - After contact, the top hand rolls over the bottom hand. - The batter should finish up in a balanced position. He should not fall back or across the plate.

Version 1 31 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Coaching Tips - “Kiss your shoulders for a perfect swing” o To develop a proper shoulder turn, imagine kissing your front shoulder, then your back shoulder. o At the launching position, the batters chin touches or is close to touching the front shoulder. o During the swing, the head will turn to focus on the expected ball contact point, bringing the chin against the back shoulder at contact. - “Chop down a tree” o A common challenge with younger batters is the tendency to drop their hands or the bat head when initiating the swing. o The expression “chop down a tree” describes the downward path of the hands and bat. o Be short and quick to the contact zone, and long and level through the zone.

Hitting Various Pitches - Hitting the low pitch o Point the front shoulder downward toward the ball. o Don’t open the hips too soon. o Bend both knees a little more to get down. o The hands take a lower path and swing the bat through the ball. o You don’t need an uppercut swing to hit this pitch. - Hitting the high pitch o To hit this pitch well, keep the hands at the top of the strike zone in the ready and load position. o Batters who hitch (i.e., drop their hands down) will have trouble hitting the high pitch solid and consistently. o Use a downward swing to hit the ball. “Chop down a tree.” o During the swing, the barrel of the bat is swung above the hands. - Hitting the inside pitch o The barrel of the bat must make contact with the ball in front of the body. If the batter stands in the middle of the box, this will bring contact in front of the plate. o Think “bat speed” but not “power”. o Explosive hip rotation is essential. o Quick wrists are important, particularly the top hand. o Flex both elbows to first bring the hands close to the body and quickly get the hands out in front, then extend. o Hip rotation should be complete. Right-handed batters should end up with the navel roughly pointing to left field. - Hitting the outside pitch o On the outside pitch, “stay back”. Keep the weight and hands back a little longer before swinging. o The upper body leans over the plate slightly to improve reach on this pitch. The front shoulder points to the ball.

Version 1 32 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide o Do not open your hips too early. o Ball contact occurs a little later – a little deeper into the plate. o At contact, the batter’s navel points to the opposite field. - Hitting the change-up o A change-up is a deceiving pitch, even more so if the pitcher’s mechanics are the same as for the fastball. o The key is to keep the weight and hands back. If the weight is shifted too early, or if the hands move prematurely, there will be no power left in the contact, resulting in a slow ground ball, a weak fly ball, or missing the ball completely. o For better results, batters should think about hitting lines drives up the middle or to the opposite field.

Position in the Box - How deep in the box? o The deeper you stand in the box, the longer it takes for the ball to reach you and the more time available to you to track the ball and swing. However, this position affects your plate coverage – it makes it more difficult to hit pitches on either corner of the plate as the ball passes over. o Standing in front of the plate improves plate coverage and helps to hit breaking balls, but hard fastballs are more difficult to hit. o The most flexible position is in the middle of the box. - Open, parallel, or closed stance? o In a closed stance, the batter’s front foot is closer to the plate, his back foot is more turned toward the pitcher, hands and bat further back. This helps to generate more bat speed and power, but the view of the ball is not as good as for the other stances. The swing will be longer. o The open stance improves the view of the ball and places the hands and bat closer to the contact zone, for more compact and consistent swings but less power. o The parallel stance should be introduced to younger hitters since it offers a good compromise between the open and closed stances. - How far away from the plate? o Full plate coverage is a key objective for every hitter. o Some batters stand away from the plate to protect a weakness inside, hoping that the pitcher will focus on the outside corner. o Other batters stand away, and then step in toward the plate as they stride, for good outside plate coverage but they often experience difficulties on hard pitches inside. o Many power hitters stand with the hands and elbows over the inside part of the plate for outstanding plate coverage from the middle out. However, they must be ready to fight off inside pitches, the expected tactic from an aggressive pitcher. o The most flexible approach is to stand close enough so the bat can touch the middle of the plate while still being able to hit inside pitches as well.

Version 1 33 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Hitting discipline: - Don’t swing for the fences o Line drives are the best (70% success rate) o Ground balls are hits 20% of the time o Fly balls are hits 10% of the time - Understand the pitcher and the count o What does he throw on the first pitch (usually his best pitch) – fastball inside? o What does he throw when ahead in the count (0-1, 0-2, 1-2)? Strike or waste pitch? What location? o When does he throw a change-up? o What does he throw when behind in the count (1-0,2-0,3-0,2-1,3-1)? Pitchers tend to throw their best pitch 70% of the time Most pitchers throw the same pitch to the same location each time. - Understand the umpire and the strike zone o Umpire consistency – does the strike zone remain constant? o Does he call the zone tight or give the corners? o Will he award a called third strike or make the pitcher put it in the zone? - Hitters have their own strong spots and weak spots in the strike zone. o Against normal pitching, a hitter should be comfortable in about 70% of the strike zone. In the remaining 30%, the hitter should not swing unless he has two strikes. o Rather than focus on repairing the 30% weaknesses, coaches should keep the 70% coverage intact while gradually shrinking the area of weakness. - Take what you’re offered o When the pitch is in your favored area of the strike zone or you have to protect the plate, hit the pitch, and let the ball go to the appropriate field. o While some hitters will attempt to pull hits into their power alley, most batters should look for line drives. o Inside pitches are taken in front and pulled, center pitches are taken up the middle, outside pitches are taken deep and driven to opposite field - Choose your “zones” o When ahead in the count, take advantage of the situation by only swinging at pitches in your favorite zones. o If you normally crush the inside, mid-thigh fastball, then this is the pitch you wait for when ahead in the count. Let go any other pitch while you have the advantage.

Version 1 34 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Reading the Pitcher’s Habits (“Tells”) – watch the pitcher warm up and observe his movements against other batters. Hitters can sometimes predict the pitch selection and location. - Typical fast ball habits o Pitcher’s favorite pitch, quicker out of the set o Release point is consistent o Nostrils flare, big inhale o Just before release, batter will see two fingers - Typical curve ball habits o Watch throwing hand, side of wrist may face you during motion (rather than gripping the ball on top) o Release point is slightly up o Pitcher’s eyes may squint, index finger bends and/or tightens o Pitcher will lift front knee higher and take a shorter stride o Ball may appear darker (gray) on curve - Typical change-up habits o Hand goes deep into glove (takes more time to get set) o Grinding in glove as pitcher gets into a change-up grip o Shortens up stride, stops legs o If index finger is out of glove – tapping o You should see three fingers at release

Mental Approach to Hitting - Goal setting – ambitious, attainable, and positive goals motivate players to achieve performance standards. Some goals focus on measurable results such as hitting .300. Others are task oriented such as “stay back on the off-speed pitch”. - Mental imagery – successful hitters mentally rehearse the night before a game, on game day, and even in the on deck circle. They visualize what pitches they are going to get and how they will hit them. They see themselves spraying line drives to all fields or hitting a sacrifice fly. - Routines – some batters follow the same routine before each pitch. For example, (1) line up the back foot, (2) check the grip, (3) lift the bat into place with the top hand. - Visual control and tracking – consistent eye patterns and control are important to pick up the relevant information for hitting. o Start with a broad focus on the pitcher’s release point as he starts his delivery. o Once the ball is released, track the ball to pick up its speed, direction, and rotation to recognize the type of pitch. Determine its final location and confirm the decision to swing.

Version 1 35 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide

Bunting

Age Comment: Bunting is an appropriate skill to teach once players are facing live pitching. Even in the younger leagues where the tactic may not be necessary, the process of watching the ball come to the bat, up close, can help batters learn to focus on the ball. Some young players need a great deal of practice before they can hit a thrown ball. Bunting can help them put the ball in play while their batting improves. At the older levels, all players must be able to lay down a sacrifice bunt.

Bunting mechanics: - Hitter stance should be slightly wider and open, and slightly forward in the box. If a batter remains in the back of the box, the foul lines begin ahead of him and foul balls are more likely. - “Square up” when the pitcher’s lead leg strides toward home plate. That is, the batter should pivot his feet toward the pitcher and square his hips and shoulders. - Knees should be bent slightly with most of the weight on the front foot to avoid lunging at the ball. - The top hand slides to the trademark area and the bat is pinched between the fingers. - Remember soft hands. The idea is to let the ball hit the bat, not the reverse. - Start the bat at the top of the strike zone with the barrel above the hands. - Bend at the knees to keep eyes on the same plane as the ball. - When contacting the ball, keep the bat at the same vertical angle. Bunting towards 3rd base or 1 st base is achieved by moving the left hand. - The batter should bunt the top half of the ball. - Balls should contact the bat in the same place a swinging bat would hit the ball. - Catch the ball on the bat to deaden the bounce.

There are two fundamental kinds of bunts and lots of variations: 1. Sacrifice bunt . This is the most common bunt in which a batter “sacrifices” his at bat to advance a runner into scoring position. The batter turns to face the pitcher, or “squares up”, before the ball is released. This turn will cause the 3 rd baseman and possibly other infielders to charge towards home to field the ball. As a result, the batter will likely be thrown out at 1 st base, but the baserunner has a very good chance to advance.

- The objective is to advance the runner. Square up right away. Don’t also try to reach 1 st base by trying to be too perfect, waiting too long to show the bunt, or running before the ball is on the ground. - Pitch selection. Bunting success is dependent upon a good pitch. Bunting at poor pitches decreases both the chance of success and the chance of a walk. - The hitter must walk into the batter’s box knowing which direction to bunt the ball o To advance a runner from 1B to 2B, bunts tend to be towards 1 st base. o To advance a runner from 2B to 3B, bunts tend to be towards 3 rd base. o A poorly placed bunt should go foul and not to the pitcher. - Get the ball on the ground. A pop-up not only makes an easy out, but also increases the chance of a double play.

Version 1 36 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Squeeze play: This is a sacrifice bunt where the batter tries to bring in the runner from 3rd base. This type of play is rare and typically used late in a game and with less than 2 outs. In the “suicide squeeze”, the runner on 3 rd base breaks for home as soon as the pitcher moves towards home plate. The runner slides into home regardless of the pitch or the success of the bunt. If the batter fails to make contact, the runner is easily tagged out. In the “safety squeeze”, the runner breaks from 3 rd base only after the ball is bunted.

2. Bunt for a hit . As the name implies, the intent of this bunt is not to sacrifice the batter, but to get the batter on base. Often, a batter will use a drag bunt to lay down the bunt and get a quick break towards 1 st base. The batter does not square up until the ball is released, so the infield corners have more ground to cover to get to the ball. The batter starts running towards 1 st base as the ball hits the bat.

Bunting adds another dimension to the game and engages the whole defense. The defensive plays are used to keep runners close and, hopefully, get the lead runner out. The pitcher may also throw high in the strike zone to make bunting more difficult for the batter.

Drag bunting. - Unlike the sacrifice bunt, the batter does not square until the pitcher releases the ball. - Showing the defense that the batter may bunt may cause the corners to move and open up the infield a little more. - Stress that poor bunts should go foul. The one place a bunt should not go is directly back toward the pitcher. - Right-handers. o Cheat up in the box. o Once the pitcher is about to release, move back foot slightly away from home and the front foot slightly towards 1 st base. o The left hand pulls the bat into position. o Do not transfer weight to front foot until ball is bunted. o It’s OK to step out of the batter’s box once the ball has passed. - Left-handers. o Cheat up in box. o Open front foot slightly. o Right hand pulls bat into position. o Weight shifts to right foot as ball approaches. o Back foot moves toward pitcher. o Location of the bunt is more important than the jump out of the box. Do not leave too early.

Version 1 37 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide

Addressing Batting Issues

- It takes considerable attention for coaches to detect batting faults, and then talent and patience to assist hitters in correcting them.

- During the game: o Do not correct mechanics. Hitters should concentrate on strategy and the task at hand, not techniques. o Provide hitters with positive reminders to help them get ready for the next at bat. o Note the things to address with the players later in practice.

- Observing hitters: o Learn as much as you can about hitting and about your hitters. o Develop a hitting checklist to guide your observations and make notes on what you see. First check the stance in the ready position, then start watching the swings from the ground up. If the base is OK, keep moving up the ladder. o Move around so you can see the swings from different angles. o Watch several swings before making a judgment. Focus on tendencies, not something you see only once every 10 swings. o Use a video camera, then review the tape with the player.

- Communicating with hitters o Fight off the urge to overload hitters with technical information. o Get batters to focus on how they feel when they swing. o Develop a simple vocabulary with them (e.g., squash the bug tells the hitter to pivot on the back foot to allow proper hip rotation).

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Common Batting Issues

- Lunging - “Lungers” have difficulty staying back for the ball, and a tough time hitting off-speed pitchers. Their upper body is driven slightly ahead of the lower half, causing a loss of balance and power. o Remedies: Widen the stance. Emphasize proper weight shift back and inward rotation into a launching position to initiate the swing. “Stride first, then hit” versus “stride and hit at the same time.”

- Upper cutting – Collapsing the bag leg or dropping the back elbow during the swing often cause upper cutting. The back hip and shoulder drop down to result in a big looping swing upward, fly balls, and a weakness against high hard pitches. o Remedies: Widen the stance. Emphasize proper weight distribution in the ready position, the shifting of the weight back, and finally forward into the swing. In the ready position, keep the front shoulder down. Have the batter hit ground balls (with backspin) to the infielders to develop a downward swing.

- Over striding – Hitters who over stride are usually too anxious or aggressive at the plate. Over striding will slow down hip rotation, reduce power, and may cause weakness on pitches high in the strike zone. o Remedies: Widen the stance and emphasize a shorter stride. Emphasize proper weight shift onto the front foot.

- Hitching – a hitch drops the hands down as the stride is taken. It results in pop-ups, foul balls, or no contact at all when trying to hit pitches high in the strike zone. o Remedies: Emphasize quiet, still hands in the ready and launching (load) positions. Raise the hands higher in the stance. Rest the bat on the back shoulder in the ready and launching positions. Practice swings in front of a mirror.

Version 1 39 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide - Stepping in the bucket – describes a batter striding away from the plate, rather than at the pitcher. This affects plate coverage against outside pitches and power is lost. o Remedies: Emphasize proper stride direction. Close the stance, or widen it to reduce movement away. Teach how to properly avoid pitches. Talk with the hitter to help him overcome his fear.

- Head turning – the head and eyes follow the front shoulder and lose sight of the ball, causing poor contact. o Remedies: Emphasize proper weight shift back and inward rotation into the launching position. Keep the front shoulder closed longer. Tell the batter to “kiss his back shoulder” at contact – keep the chin tucked into the shoulder. Ensure proper stride direction. Have the batter follow the ball right into the catcher’s glove.

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Base Running

- Running to 1B a. Look for the ball only if it’s in front of you. b. On a ground ball, run full speed through 1B, touching the leading edge of the base. Once past, use a basketball, quick-feet type of stop in case an error is made and you have a chance to advance. c. On a base hit, round the bag touching the inside corner of the bag. Decision time: break down and return to 1B, or dig for 2B on error/weak arm.

- Lead offs a. Take a primary lead … step, cross over, and shuffle with eyes on pitcher . b. For secondary leads: i. Basic lead off 1B is a quick start to a double lead ii. To come back to bag, crossover and dive to touch bag (10’ approx) iii. Basic lead off 2B is same as 1B plus one large step iv. Basic lead off 3B is a lazy lead outside the foul line about 8’

- Tag up plays a. Review the rules with the players. b. We want the runner to time the play, not the base coach. c. The runner tags the bag and pushes off as the fielder catches the ball.

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Sliding

- Slides are used for a variety of reasons: a. Stop at a base without going past b. Get back to a base c. Avoid a tag d. Break up a double play - In some leagues, when a play at a bag is likely, slides are mandated to help reduce the potential for injury.

- Figure 4 slide – also known as the bent-leg slide. This is the basic baseball slide. The top leg is nearly straight, but not locked at the knee. The other leg is bent and the ankle placed under the knee of the top left. Hence the figure 4 shape. a. This slide should begin approximately 2 body lengths from the bag. The runner should glide (not drop or flop) into the figure 4 position with his weight centered on his bottom (not leaning either way), head up, and hands out for balance. The goal is to get the heel of the shoe to the bag – not the toe. The toes should point upward to avoid catching cleats. b. If a runner is trying to break up a double play, the runner watches where the infielder is likely to be positioned to make his throw and slides towards that spot. As he approaches the bag, he lifts his top foot to irritate the fielder and make him consider changing his footwork. The intent is never to hit a fielder with a raised cleat.

- Pop-up slide – similar to the Figure 4 slide, but the runner uses his momentum when his lead foot hits the bag to “pop up” to a standing position. This kind of slide allows the runner to quickly get to his feet and see if the fielding will allow him another base.

- Hook slide – this slide is used when the ball is expected to beat the runner to the bag. The slides starts like the Figure 4 with a balanced landing position on the rump but both feet are extended forward. However, the runner is aiming for a point 2-3 feet to the side of the bag, away from the expected tag. As the runner slides towards the bag, the toe of the inside foot will hook the bag and stay in contact with the bag. The result will be the runner leaning back in a hurdler’s stretch position with the inside leg curled bag – toe still in contact with the bag.

- Back door roll – typically used in a close play at home plate. The runner slides past the plate on the outside and then rolls to his left to touch the plate with his hand.

- When practicing slides, particularly with young players, choose a damp day and work in the wet grass. Once the players can judge where to begin their slide and can stay balanced in the basic slide position, practice on a drier day on the base paths.

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Batter and Runner Signs

Age Comment: Batter and runner signs are a key component of the offense. Although the younger teams may only have bunt, swing, and take signs, the signs engage the players mentally (including those in the dugout) and build good habits.

Sample Sign Systems

One Touch System - the first hot area touched will be the sign. All other signs remain the same. - Shoulder = bunt - Chest to waist = steal - Below waist/Hip = Hit ‘n’ Run (Run ‘n’ Hit)

No Touch System – the area NOT touched is the sign that is on. All signs must be on the right side touched by the right hand only. It can go from top to bottom or from bottom to top. If no runners on base or two outs, take is automatically on. - Shoulder = bunt - Chest to waist = steal - Below waist/Hip = Hit ‘n’ Run (Run ‘n’ Hit) - All three areas = fake bunt - Thumb to field = hit - Thumb away from field = take

More advanced signs: - Right hand down left arm – base hit bunt - Fist to palm – balk steal - Hand to back of neck – squeeze bunt - Hands to knees – safety squeeze bunt - Right hand to right ear – delay steal - Point at you – you’re on your own - Point at me – watch me for signs - Rolling hands – decoy steal - Clapping or rubbing hands together – all signs are off

Special sign: Left hand down right arm-First/Third Double Steal (LHP) - Runner on 3B leaves first, early - Runner on 1B leaves second, also early

To acknowledge the sign has been received, runners adjust helmets and hitters tap bat to cleats (clean dirt off spikes) or adjust helmet.

Version 1 43 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Covering and Backing Up Each player has a role to play, regardless of the specific action that follows the delivery of the ball to the batter. The role will be to field or catch the ball, to cover a base, or to back up. From an off-field position, all nine defensive players should be seen to move in unison.

Where Who When 1st base 1B All plays to 1 st base, except when 1B is drawn away to field the ball. For all pick-off plays, except when 2B is assigned to cover. When a runner is caught off base between 1 st and 2 nd . 2B When 1B is assigned to field bunts. When the pick-off play requires 2B to cut behind the runner for a tag. When 1B is drawn away to field the ball. Pitcher When 1B and 2B are pulled away from the bag – rare. RF When 1B is serving as the cut-off player and 2B cannot get there. 2nd base 2B For all hits to the left side of the field. When the pick-off play requires 2B to cut behind the runner for a tag. SS For all hits to the right side of the field. For all bunts with a sole runner on 1 st base. When assigned to cover 2 nd base on a steal. When the pick-off play requires SS to cut behind the runner for a tag. When the runner is caught between 1 st and 2 nd or 2 nd and 3 rd . (If 2B gets there first, he covers. If SS gets there first, he covers.) CF For all bunts with runners on 1 st and 2 nd , 1 st and 3 rd , or bases loaded. 3rd base 3B For all plays to 3 rd , except when drawn away to field the ball. For all pick-offs, except when arranged for SS to cover. SS For all bunts or shallow hits to 3 rd with a runner on 2 nd . When a runner attempts to steal 3 rd and 3B cannot cover. Pitcher For bunts to 3 rd with a runner on 1 st . LF For bunts to 3 rd with a runner on 1 st and pitcher cannot get there. Home Catcher For all plays at home unless drawn away by a ball getting past. When runner caught between 2 nd and 3 rd or 3 rd and home. Pitcher When the catcher is drawn away to retrieve a ball. 1B When both catcher and pitcher drawn away from plate – rare.

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Single / No Runners Ball hit to Left P Moves toward 1B C Trails runner to 1B 1B Backs up 2B, yells if runner goes to 2B 2B Covers 2B 3B Moves toward mound for deflected ball SS Lines up throw to 2B and throws LF Fields grounder to 2B CF Backs up LF RF Moves to backup 2B in line with throw

Ball hit to Center P Backs up 2B C Trails runner to 1B 1B Makes sure runner touches base and then covers 1B 2B Covers 2B 3B Backs up 2B for deflected throw SS Lines up throw to 2B LF Backs up CF CF Fields grounder and throws to 2B RF Backs up CF and will cover 2B if ball is hit to CF’s right

Ball hit to Right P Breaks for 1B, backs up catcher if RF throws behind runner C Follows runner to 1B 1B Goes after ball and stays away from 1B so runner can round 1B 2B Short cuts position and lines up throw to 2B 3B Backs up 2B SS Covers 2B LF Backs up throw to 2B CF Backs up RF RF Throws to 2B, looks for possible play at 1B

Version 1 45 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Single with Runner on 1 st Base

Ball hit to Left P Backs up 3B C Backs up Pitcher on play 1B Make sure runner touches 1B, backs up 2B 2B Covers 2B 3B Covers 3B SS Lines up throw to 3B LF Fields ball and throws to SS in cutoff position CF Backs up LF RF Goes toward 1B area

Ball hit to Center P Backs up 3B C Covers home 1B Watches runner touch base, stays near bag 2B Covers 2B 3B Covers 3B SS Lines up throw to 3B LF Backs up CF CF Fields ball and throws to 3B RF Backs up CF

Ball hit to Right P Backs up 3B C Backs up Pitcher, covers home 1B Watches runner tag 1B 2B Covers 2B 3B Covers 3B SS Cutoff man for throw to 3B LF Backs up 3B CF Backs up RF RF Fields ball and throws to 3B

Version 1 46 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Single with Runner on 2 nd Base

Ball hit to Left P Backs up home C Covers home 1B Covers 1B, moves to cutoff position if to left of SS 2B Covers 2B 3B Lines up throw home SS Covers 3B LF Fields ball and throws home CF Backs up LF RF Moves to infield area

Ball hit to Center P Backs up home C Covers home 1B Cutoff man behind mound area 2B Covers 1B 3B Makes sure runner touches 3B, covers 3B SS Covers 2B LF Backs up 3B CF Fields ball and throws home RF Backs up CF

Ball hit to Right P Backs up home C Covers home 1B Cutoff man for throw home 2B Covers 1B 3B Covers 3B SS Covers 2B LF Backs up 2B area CF Backs up RF RF Throws to 1B in cutoff position

Version 1 47 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Single with Runners on 1 st and 2 nd Base

Ball hit to Left P Goes between 3B and home and reacts accordingly C Covers home 1B Covers 1B and makes sure runner tags it 2B Covers 2B 3B Cutoff man near home SS Covers 3B LF Fields ball and throws home CF Backs up LF RF Moves in toward infield

Ball hit to Center P Goes between 3B and home and reacts accordingly C Covers home 1B Cutoff man for throw home 2B Covers 2B 3B Covers 3B SS Lines up throw to 3B LF Backs up CF CF Throws to cutoff man near home RF Backs up CF

Ball hit to Right P Goes between 3B and home and reacts accordingly C Covers home 1B Cutoff man for throw home 2B Covers 2B 3B Covers 3B SS Lines up throw to 3B LF Moves in toward infield CF Backs up RF RF Throws to cutoff man near home

Version 1 48 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Sure Double

Ball hit to Left P Backs up 3B C Covers home 1B Watches runner touch base, trails him to 2B 2B Covers 3B 3B Backup man on tandem relay SS Front man on tandem relay LF Fields ball and throws to front man on tandem relay CF Backs up 2B RF Moves toward 1B area

Ball hit to Center P Backs up 3B C Covers home 1B Watches runner touch base, trails him to 2B 2B Front man on tandem relay 3B Covers 3B SS Backup man on tandem relay LF Backs up 3B CF Goes for ball, hits front man on tandem relay RF Goes for ball, hits front man on tandem relay

Ball hit to Right P Backs up 3B C Covers home 1B Cutoff man for throw home 2B Front man on tandem relay 3B Covers 3B SS Second man on tandem relay LF Backs up 3B area CF Moves to 2B area RF Goes for ball, hits front man on tandem relay

Version 1 49 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Pop Foul, Runners on 1 st and 3 rd Base

Pop-up to 3 rd Base Line P Covers 3B C Covers home 1B Cutoff man for throw home 2B Covers 2B 3B Goes for ball SS Goes for ball LF Goes for ball CF Comes to 2B area RF Covers 1B

Pop-up Straight Back P Covers home C Goes for ball 1B Goes for ball 2B Cutoff man for throw to 2B 3B Goes for ball SS Covers 2B LF Goes to 3B area CF Backs up 2B RF Covers 1B area

Pop-up to 1 st Base Line P Covers 1B C Covers home 1B Goes for ball 2B Goes for ball 3B Cutoff man for throw home SS Covers 2B LF Covers 3B CF Comes to 2B area RF Goes for ball

Version 1 50 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Defenses for Bunts, Steals, and Picks

Age Comment: Defenses range from simplistic to very complicated. Coaches need to select the level of sophistication appropriate for their team. Simplified defenses and signals can be used for the older Little League teams. The touch zones below are used by the catcher to call the defenses for bunts, steals, and picks.

Touch Zones:

0 = straight through 4 = dead number 5 = 3B 6 = SS

Tri = triangle

Wipe (chest protector) = Picks

Rot-Pick = rotation pick

The next few pages describe five basic bunt coverages. The intention of bunt defenses is to get the lead runner if possible but to always get an out. Coaches must draw these plays for the players and explain them in detail.

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A. No runners – this is the basic coverage.

CF

RF LF

SS 2B

1B 3B

P

H

C

- The catcher does not give signs. - Infielders will watch the batter’s feet, not the pitch. When the batter’s feet move, they charge to their bunt coverage positions. - 1st baseman covers his bag and lets the 3 rd baseman or pitcher field the bunt. - 3rd baseman will play and adjust his positioning with the pitch count. - Both the SS and 2 nd baseman will first move towards the batter in case of a hard bunt past the pitcher. This is true for all bunts. Once they see the ball on the ground, and it’s not coming into their zone, they move to their base or backup assignment. - Pitcher covers the 1 st base side. - 3rd baseman covers the 3 rd base side. - The outfielders all sprint to their backup assignments at either 1B or 2B. - If the catcher is not involved fielding, he runs to backup 3B.

Version 1 52 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide B. Runner on 1B – Triangle

CF

RF LF

SS 2B

1B 3B

P

H C

- The catcher calls the defense with touches to both knees and the face – 3 touches. - The “triangle” of pitcher, catcher, and 3B is in effect. - If possible, the fielder gets the runner at 2B. Bases are backed up in case of errors. - The 1 st baseman reads the bunt. If he charges, he yells “One!” to wave off the pitcher. If not, he goes to cover his bag. - The pitcher covers the 1B side. Once he fields the ball and makes the play, he is responsible for covering home. Otherwise, he backs up 3B. - The 3 rd baseman covers the 3B side. Once he fields the ball and makes the play, he covers home. Otherwise, he runs back to 3B. - The catcher covers anything short. If he fields the ball and makes the play, he then goes back to cover home. If the 3 rd baseman fields the ball, he runs to cover 3B. Otherwise, he backs up 3B. - As always, the outfielders back up bases. The LF starts toward 2B, if the play goes to 1B, he runs to back up 3B.

Version 1 53 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide C. Runner on 2B – regular coverage

CF

RF LF

SS 2B

1B 3B

P

H C

- The catcher uses decoys signs – 3 touches. - Middle infielders distract the runner or play cat & mouse to keep him close. - If possible, the fielder gets the runner at 3B. Bases are backed up in case of errors. - The pitcher covers the 3B side. If he does not field the ball, he backs up 3B. - The 1 st baseman covers the 1B side. - The 2 nd baseman sprints to cover 1 st base. - The SS leans toward 3B and then covers 2B. - The 3 rd baseman decoys bunt coverage but charges ONLY if the ball is bunted hard down the line. Otherwise, he runs back to the bag for a potential tag. - The catcher covers anything short. - As always, the outfielders back up bases.

Version 1 54 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide D. Runner on 2B – rotation coverage (read pick) This bunt coverage incorporates an optional pick play. Practice is necessary for smooth communication (verbal and non-verbal) between the infielders and the pitcher.

CF

RF LF

2B

SS

3B 1B P

H

C - The catcher signals rotation – touches both knees and double wipes left arm. - In this coverage, the corners charge early towards the plate with the intent of getting the lead runner at 3 rd base. - There is a specific order of movement once the runner takes his lead: o SS yells, “Back!” and runs to 3B while the 3 rd baseman charges. o 2B reads the runner. If he wants to attempt the pick, he “flashes” the pitcher by sticking his throwing hand straight out and charging for 2 nd base. The pitcher then makes his move. o If the runner leans towards 2 nd base, the 2B yells, “Back!”. The 2B heads for 1B and the 1B charges towards home. The 1B yells, “Go!” so the pitcher knows when to pitch (a lefty pitcher will see the 1B break). o The pitcher can also use a high fastball and a slide step to disturb the batter’s timing and form. - Otherwise, the bunt coverages are straight forward o The 3B, pitcher, and 1B cover their zones. o The 2 nd baseman covers 1B, the SS sprints to covers 3B.

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E. Runner on 3B – triangle, single wipe coverage

CF

RF LF

SS 2B

1B 3B

P

H C

- The catcher signals triangle – touches both knees and face – 3 touches. - This defense is appropriate for “squeeze” situations - most likely to occur with bases loaded, less than two outs, and a full count. - Aggressive offensive teams may try to score 2 runs if a play is made at 1 st base. - It is critical for the 3 rd baseman to recognize the bunt and charge. - The 3 rd baseman, pitcher, and 1 st baseman all charge. Whoever thinks he has it yells “ball!” - The 2 nd baseman covers 1B. - The SS sprints to covers 3B, but must react back to 2B if the runner is safe at 1B. - The catcher covers anything short but must cover home. - As always, the outfielders back up bases. - If there is also a runner on 1 st base, the 2B yells “Runner!” if the man on 1 st base tries to advance.

Version 1 56 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Steal Coverage - Runners on 1B and 3B a. Use the 0-4-5-6 catcher’s rectangle b. 0 = catcher’s throw straight through to 2B c. 4 = dead number d. 5 = catcher’s immediate throw to 3B e. 6 = catcher’s immediate throw to SS. The SS takes two steps toward 2B and comes to get throw from the catcher. SS decision to throw to home, 3B, or run at the runner.

Pick-Off Plays – pitchers should not make a throw to a base unless the coach has OK’d the move. Rather, pitchers should vary the looks they take at runners and the timing of the looks. Pitchers can step off the rubber if a runner takes an excessive lead.

A popular philosophy is that the best time for a pitcher to get an opponent out is when he is batting, not when he is standing on base.

- “Cap” – pitcher, SS – must have runner at 2B a. SS signals play, 2B will finish the play b. Shortstop dances back to base and then comes off c. 2B goes to bag for throw from pitcher (on the 1001 count) d. Pitcher acknowledges play by adjusting hat as he turns his head back to plate e. Pitcher throws to bag on the 1001 count

- “Belt” – SS – must have runner at 2B a. SS goes to 2B and around runner b. 2B takes throw at bag c. Pitcher acknowledges play by adjusting hat as he turns his head back to plate d. Pitcher throws to bag on the 1001 count

- Daylight – SS/2B – must have runner at 2B a. SS/2B (either) flicks glove as he breaks to 2B b. Pitcher sees SS/2B going to cover 2B c. Pitcher throws to base immediately

- 3B to 1B (RHP) / 1B to 3B (LHP) – must have runners at 1B and 3B a. RHP decoys throw to 3B – turns inside to pick off runner at 1B b. LHP steps off rubber, decoys throw to 1B, turns inside to pick runner at 3B. c. Catcher touches whichever leg is the first decoy and the other leg for pick- off. d. Catcher drops glove – pitcher begins decoy

Version 1 57 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide - “Dirt Play” – could have runners at any base a. Catcher throw dirt in the direction of the base where he will throw b. Player who is covering base on throw will acknowledge with hat adjustment c. Catcher makes immediate throw after pitch - “Drop Glove” – could have runners on any base a. Catcher throws dirt in direction of base where pitcher will pick-off if needed . b. Catcher taps to indicate to which base to throw - (right leg – 1B, cup – 2B, left leg – 3B) c. Catcher drops glove down slightly d. Pitcher throws ball to that base after that 1001 count

- “Glove” – could have runners at any base a. Fielder rests open glove on hip b. Pitcher uses 1001 count (turning head toward plate as he counts) and then throws to that bag

- “50” Pick – runner at 1B a. Catches touches 4-6 and wipes across chest b. Catcher signals for pitch out c. Pitcher comes set – 1B breaks in on bunt coverage (2B loops behind runner at 1B) d. Pitcher delivers pitch-out when 1B comes into his eye sight e. Catcher throws down to 1B to 2 nd baseman covering bag

- “46” Pick – runner at 1B a. Catcher touches 0-5 and wipes across chest b. Catcher signals “open hand” c. Pitcher comes set, 2B breaks in on bunt coverage d. Pitcher picks runner at 1B when 2B comes into his eye sight (go early or late)

- “Rotation Pick” – runner at 2B a. Catcher touches both knees and wipes across chest b. Catcher signals “open hand” c. Pitcher comes set and uses 1001 count d. 3B and 1B both break in on bunt coverage e. SS runs to cover 3B f. 2B decoys coverage to 1B and breaks back to 2B bag g. Pitcher turns and picks runner at 2B

Version 1 58 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Drills Hitting Drills

Hitting drills are designed to help batters learn the feel of proper technical execution. Batters (and volunteer coaches) must be told the specific goal of each drill, what to focus on when executing, how to set-up for the drill, and any safety guidelines.

Pivot and Rotation Drill Purpose: To develop the push and pivot action of the feet and hip rotation. Procedure: Bat behind the back, held with elbows. From the ready stance, execute the stride, coiling action, and hip rotation into the swing. Pivot on the ball of the back foot. Point the navel to the pitcher.

Infield Ground Ball Drill Purpose: To develop a compact downward swing and stride. Procedure: Ask a player to hit groundballs to the infielders. Use a short downward stroke and try to impact backspin on the ball. Coaches should allow only one ball in play at a time.

Batting Tee Drill Purpose: To develop a compact swing for balls in different locations and heights. Procedure: Place the tee in front of home plate, a various heights and locations. Look at the imaginary ball release point (pitcher’s hand), initiate the stride, and then turn the head to the contact point.

Bottom Hand Toss Drill Purpose: To develop bottom hand action. Procedure: Choke up on the bat. Use the bottom hand only. The knob of the bat is driven toward the pitcher then the wrist releases to drive the bat through the ball. Focus on hitting the top of the ball.

Soft Toss Purpose: Allows the batter to focus on a number of batting techniques: stance, load, keeping hands inside, etc. Procedure: Toss one ball at a time. For a pitch on the inside corner, the ball is tossed to the front of the hitter front side hip. For a pitch on the outside corner, toss to the “belly button”.

A number of variations on the soft toss are useful for developing certain traits:

Backside Toss Purpose: Develop quick hands Procedure: Tosser sets up in a deep, catcher position and tosses through the strike zone. Toss one ball at a time. Be patient with this drill. The batter will need some repetition to make contact.

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Anti-sweep Toss Purpose: Encourage keeping hands inside the ball (discourage reaching out for the ball) Procedure: Position the batter facing the side net within a batting cage. Use the bat to establish the distance between the batter’s stomach and the net. Set up similar to the backside toss and ask the batter to hit the ball without touching the net.

Rear Barrier Drill Purpose: Encourage keeping hands inside the ball. Procedure: Place a BP net directly behind the batter (about a foot away) along an imaginary line from the pitcher to the catcher. Soft toss or front toss to the batter and ask for normal swings. If the bat hits the barrier, the batter isn’t pulling his hands towards the ball.

Two-ball Toss Purpose: Develop focus on the ball and a quick bat release Procedure: Standard soft toss setup, but with two balls. The tosser will toss both balls at the same time and call out “top” or “bottom” when the balls are at the top of the arc. The batter must react quickly and hit the proper ball. Once the drill is familiar, the tosser should also occasionally remain silent – the batter should remain in the load position and NOT swing.

Rapid Fire Toss Purpose: Encourage efficient swing Procedure: Standard soft toss setup. Tosser prepares five baseballs. As the batter completes each swing, the next ball is tossed. The rapid progression of tosses requires the batter to get to load position quickly and acquire the next target. Don’t throw the next ball to early – allow the batter to have a complete follow-through.

Direct Toss Purpose: Similar to batting practice, allows the batter to see a variety of pitch locations and speed. Two batters doing this drill can share a batting cage. Procedure: Tosser sits on a bucket and remains completely behind a BP net for safety. If the net has holes, do not use. Batter takes normal stance and works through a variety of pitch locations and speeds. Tosses are delivered underhand.

Round of BP Purpose: Typically done at the end of practice to change from drills into a more competitive but fun activity. Procedure: Have the players line up in the on deck circle with their helmets on. A coach throws BP. Each player comes up to hit and continues to hit as long as they hit a ball fair that would be a hit (coach’s discretion). Up to five hits per batter. If the batter hits a foul, pop fly, or misses, they go to the end of the line. Coaches can call for bunts as well.

Version 1 60 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Pitching Drills

One Knee Drill Purpose: Freeze the lower body and focus on developing proper upper body and arm motion. Procedure: Pitchers pair up and kneel on their throwing-side leg. The player with the ball will turn his glove-side shoulder toward his partner and extend his throwing arm back, hand on top of the ball. He then throws the ball with a follow through that includes bending forward and getting the throwing elbow past the opposite knee.

Balance Point Drill Purpose: Helps the pitcher get into a controlled position before beginning the motion towards the plate. This drill is particularly good for to pitchers who “fall” towards the plate. Procedure: The pitcher goes through his wind-up without the ball. When he gets to the balance point, he will stop and wait for the coach (or partner) to hand him the ball. The coach should vary how quickly he hands the ball to the pitcher - from three- to five- seconds. Once the pitcher has the ball, he will look to the catcher’s glove and throw. The coach must ensure a complete follow through.

Towel Drill Purpose: Practice reaching forward to establish a release point in front of the body. Procedure: Place a chair several feet in front of the pitcher. The pitch should hold a dishtowel with the first two fingers (ala fast ball grip) and take a full windup. As the wrist snaps during the release, the towel should hit the chair. Once the towel is easily making contact with the chair, move the chair slightly farther away. The intent isn’t to create giant pitching strides (keep the stride consistent) but rather to encourage the pitcher to reach forward.

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Infield Drills

4-Corners Purpose: Practice strong throws, two hand targets, and basic footwork for turning a double play Procedure: Divide the team into groups at each base and home plate. Using just one ball, begin throwing from one base to the next in clockwise direction. The fielders can begin in a 1 st base-style position for the first few cycles. The focus at this point is throwing footwork and accuracy. The target for each throw is the neck of the next fielder. When the team can throw consistently, add basic footwork. Each receiving fielder begins behind the bag and steps on the bag with his glove-side foot, catches the ball, plants his back foot on the far side of the bag (out of the way of the virtual runner), steps towards the next base, and delivers an accurate throw. As the players get comfortable with the drill, the step-catch-throw motion should be fluid and coaches can increase the speed.

Banana Route Drill Purpose: Practice proper footwork for “rounding” a routine grounder. Procedure: Line up the infielders at shortstop and hit moderately paced grounders. Try not to force a backhand grab. For less experienced fielders, use a cone placed directly in front of the fielder’s position to force them to take a circular route. The goal of the drill is to get fielders to grab the ball with feet and momentum aligned towards 1 st base.

Short-hop Partner Toss Purpose: Practice fielding grounders immediately after the ball bounces. Procedure: Partners toss underhand short hops to each other focusing on each of the three basic fielding positions: forehand between the feet, forehand to the side (players should turn their feet as if they have moved to their left), and backhand (again, players should turn their feet and assume a crossover step). The motion for the fielder is to catch the ball immediately as it bounces with the glove moving from ground up. Coaches should explain that a short hop is far easier to catch than a grounder at waist level. When the ball is one inch from the ground, even a bad hop will go into the glove. If the ball bounces five feet in front of the fielder, the ball can skip or bounce in many directions.

Hit the Bucket Purpose: Divide into two teams, one lined up at SS and the other at 2B. Place a bucket on home plate. A coach hits fungos one at a time to SS and then 2B. As each player fields the grounder, he throws home to hit the bucket on the fly. The first team to knock over the bucket wins.

Backstop drill Purpose: Practice making pass ball plays at the plate. Procedure: Put several balls along the backstop behind the catcher. As the catcher to squat behind the plate and the pitcher to stand where he finishes his follow-through. When the coach yells “Cover!” the catcher must turn around, go for a ball, look quickly, and backhand the ball to the pitcher running in. The pitcher works on fielding the ball and

Version 1 62 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide making the tag. The catcher works on positioning his body for a thumb-down backhand to the pitcher about knee high. The pitcher straddles the 3 rd base foul line in front of the plate.

Infielder's Shovel Toss Purpose: Practice the technique for the underhand shovel toss typically used by middle infielders and 1 st basemen. Procedure: Hit alternating grounders to the middle infielders. When fielding close to second base, the middle infielders use the underhand toss. As the fielder fields the ball, he stays low and heads towards the bag. He holds the ball in his bare hand, palm up, and visible to the other fielder. He steps with his left foot and releases the ball with a firm throw at the fielder’s chest. The receiving fielder should have both the glove and bare hand extended and framing the target in front of his chest. Once the fielder has tossed the ball, he continues walking towards the bag to ensure accuracy. If he stands up to make the toss, the ball will have a tendency to go high. Another use of the underhand shovel toss is for 1 st baseman to field the ball and then toss to a pitcher running over to cover 1B. In this situation, the 1 st baseman makes the same type of toss but aims just ahead of the running pitcher. Ideally, the pitcher will catch the ball in front of his chest and then look down to step on the bag with his right foot.

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Outfield Drills

Toss Fly Balls Purpose: Provide controlled situations for outfielders to practice the fielding basics. Procedure: Line up the outfielders of to the side. Ask one outfielder at a time to take a position 50 ft from the coach. The coach will point left or right and the OF will break into a sprint. The coach then lofts the ball and the OF positions for the catch. The coaching is looking for specific mechanics: • The first movement is a drop step to the proper side. • Try to keep your eyes on the ball. • Catch with two hands, above the head, and on the glove side to aid in a quick transfer for a throw. • Locate the ball and determine the angle to run: o If time permits, circle the ball, and catch the ball with momentum forward towards the target. o If time is short, sprint on a direct angle to where the ball will land. • Do not extend the glove until the last moment.

Ground Balls with No Runners Purpose: Practice blocking ground balls Procedure: Throw or hit ground balls to individual outfielders with instruction that the hit is a sure base hit and no runners are already on base. In this situation, the outfielder cannot make a play on a runner but must ensure the ball is kept in front of their body. Ensure the OF runs to get in the direct path of the ball and waits for the ball to cover the last 10 feet. The OF then turns sideways and drops the throwing-side knee to the ground, in contact with the glove-side heel. The glove is placed touching the ground in front of the knee and the upper body is rotated so the chest faces the ball. Players can use either knee if desired. With no runners on base, the speed of the throw from the OF isn’t critical.

Fence Drill Purpose: Practice fielding balls that hit the fence. Procedure: This drill uses outfielders and a relay. The outfielders form a line in left, right, or center field. A coach about 15 feet from the fence throws the ball so that it lands against the fence. From a fielding position about 20 feet in front of the fence, an outfielder sprints to the fence, plants his back foot, picks up the ball, listens for the relay's voice, and throws to him.

Overlap Drill Purpose: Let outfielders practice communicating, taking angles to the ball, and backing up each other. Procedure: Two lines of outfielders about 40 feet apart face a hitter with a catcher. Balls are hit between the two fielders. One outfielder calls for the ball and takes a direct angle to the ball. The other outfielder takes a deep angle and backs up his teammate, ready to

Version 1 64 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide field the ball. Players can put balls in buckets to save time and arms. Players rotate to the end of the opposite line.

Lines and Gaps Purpose: Practice fielding balls down the lines and in the gaps. Procedure: This drill uses four outfielders (LF, RF, and two CF), fielders at 2B and 3B, a hitter, and a catcher. Because the CF is involved in any ball hit to the gap, it is best to use two--one teams with the LF and one team with the RF. Hit balls down each line and into each gap. Outfielders work on communication, back-ups, and hitting the relay or base. Have each fielder throw to both second and third base.

Blooper Drill Purpose: Practice communication on balls hit between the infield and outfield. Procedure: A catcher, middle infielders, and outfielders take their normal fielding positions. Hit bloopers between the infielders and outfielders. Emphasize the infield going back hard until called off. If necessary, outfielders should dive for bloopers to make the catch. Players return the ball to the catcher at home.

Hold Runners to a Single Purpose: Practice with the LF holding the batter to a single. Procedure: Several outfielders form a line in left field. A second baseman and catcher are at their normal positions. The outfielder assumes a normal defensive position. A coach hits down the left-field line. A runner leaves from the plate and makes an aggressive turn toward second. The LF must field the ball cleanly and throw to 2B to hold the runner.

Bounce Throw Competition Purpose: Help outfielders learn to throw the ball to home with a bounce (or two) rather than a rainbow. Procedure: Put a base 15’-20’ in front of home plate as a guide for where the ball should bounce. The outfielder should hit that base with the throw and the ball should bounce once or twice to the plate. Outfielders stand in a line in centerfield. A fly ball is tossed to the outfielder who fields it properly and throws home. Scoring can be added for throws that are on a straight line to the plate: Throw off line = 0 points Straight throw, but no bounce = 1 point Straight throw, > two bounces = 2 points Straight throw, two bounces = 3 points Straight throw, one bounce = 4 points

Version 1 65 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Relay Competition Purpose: Work on hitting the cut off properly while making the throws and relays as fast as possible. Procedure: Divide players into teams. Each team has one player at each end and one or more “relays” in the middle. Each team has one ball. On “GO” the first player throws to the relay person in the middle who turns and throws to the player on the other end. The throws are then reversed. The fastest time wins. With younger players, focus on accurate throws and the relay person turning towards his glove side. With the older players, throws to the relays should be targeted to the neck. Throws to the players on either end should be targeted at the belt buckle to simulate a tag. The relay players should move their feet so they can the ball in a position to make a quick transfer and throw to the next person.

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Throwing Drills

Wrist snap (all ages) Purpose: Warm up routine. Help younger players develop the snap stage of a throw. Procedure: Players line up 15ft across from a partner in a kneeling position, throwing side knee down. Support the throwing arm under the elbow with the glove. Hold the throwing elbow above the shoulder and toss the ball to the partner using only the wrist.

Twist snap (all ages) Purpose: Warm up routine. Help younger players develop the full upper body throwing motion. Procedure: Players line up 15ft across from partner in a standing position, feet shoulder width apart. Twist the upper body towards throwing side in preparation for the throw. The glove side elbow should be shoulder height and pointed at partner. The throwing hand should be on top of baseball and raised to a 90-degree angle. Complete the throw. More advanced players should also bend at the waist and have the throwing hand follow through to just outside the opposite knee.

Long toss (all ages) Purpose: Warm up routine. Help strengthen throwing motion. Procedure: Players line up 60ft across from partner in a standing position, one partner on a foul line. Using proper form (step, stride, throw or crow hop throw), throw to the partner. After five throws back and forth, the partner in the outfield moves back five feet. Continue the throws until accuracy suffers. Then move back in to the last position and throw again. The goal here is to throw as far as possible with proper form, with accuracy, and without throwing a rainbow. Coaches must tailor the starting distance and the duration of the drill for the ages of the players.

Timed throwing (older players) Purpose: Practice throwing accuracy and the exchange from glove to throwing hand. Procedure: Players line up 60ft across from partner in a standing position. The partners play catch and attempt to throw to the neck of their partner. Ideally, the receiving fielder catches the ball at neck height with the bare hand next to or behind the mitt. The fielder turns the mitt around to a waiting hand. The bare hand grabs the ball and completes the throwing motion. The drill should be done slowly at first to establish the mechanics and the increased in speed. Do not let the fielders close the distance between them.

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Situational Drills

Live Batting Practice Purpose: Combined infield and outfield practice with batting practice. Procedure: Divide the players into three groups of 4. The first group of 4 is in the outfield, with one player on “bucket duty” (as balls are hit, the fielders throw to the person with the bucket and he puts it in the bucket). The second group is at the 4 infield positions. The third group is hitting. One coach is prepared to hit fungos to the OF and another is prepared to hit to the IF. Of the hitters, one player is up to bat, a second is on deck shagging foul balls, a third is hitting off the tee and a 4 th is running the bases, playing the ball live as it is hit. One coach is throwing BP. If the hitter hits the ball fair, the fielders play it live and the runner also plays it live (if the runner scores, he goes back to first base). If the ball is foul or not hit, the coaches will fungo to the IF and OF. You must time it so a live ball is not hit the same time as a fungo is hit. On the 5 th hit, the hitter runs it out and becomes the base runner. The base runner goes to tee work, the tee guy goes on deck and the on deck hitter starts hitting live. All OF switch OF positions and likewise with the IF positions. After the first hitting group has hit, they go to OF, the OF group goes to IF and the IF group comes in to hit.

Second Base Steal Drill Purpose: Practice dealing with runners attempting to steal second base. Procedure: The pitcher takes the mound with a bucket of balls. The catcher takes position behind the plate. The pitcher throws a regular fastball down the middle of the plate. The catcher catches the ball shooting forward and throws to second base. The player covering second base should start with his glove on the ground and pull it up for bad hops. Once the drill is routine, introduce other pitches and placements. For balls to either side, the ball should be pulled across the catcher’s body and into throwing position.

Bunt coverage practice Purpose: Practice the mechanics of bunt coverages without live bunting. Procedure: Work with a full infield and the catcher in full gear. Place a baseball on the ground. The coach calls “bunt!” and the players move. The coach can break down the coverages and footwork for each potential bunt location. As always, every player has a base or backup assignment. Once the team is able to handle short bunts (1 st base line, towards pitcher, 3 rd base line), work the team on deeper bunts down each line. More advanced teams may include bunts into the no-mans-land past the pitcher. Finally, include a runner on 1 st base to require the fielders to choose between the lead runner and the runner heading for 1 st base.

Working on the Pickoff Purpose: This is a good drill for all aspects of stealing. The drill gives the catcher a lot of practice throwing to the bases, allows the infielders to practice tags, and allows the base runners a chance to practice leads and slides.

Version 1 68 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Procedure: Put players at each of the infield positions. Have the rest of the team put on helmets and line up at 1st base. The base runners will each run the bases in this pattern: lead off on the first pitch; steal on the second. Allow only one runner on base at time. The first runner gets a lead at first. The pitcher delivers the ball and the runner takes a secondary lead. The catcher attempts a pick-off at first and the runner tries to get back in time. On the next pitch, the runner attempts to steal second and the catcher tries to throw him out. The players repeat this process at second. At third base, the second pitch is a deliberate passed ball/wild pitch that gives the catcher and pitcher a chance to practice a tag at home.

Version 1 69 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Infield – the Skipper Way

Age Comment: This set of infield drills can be performed by teams of any age. Tailor the speed and repetitions to your team. Ask the infielders covered 2 nd base to catch the ball in front of the bag to shorten the throw for early season and for younger players. Coaches can have players take turns at each position and will definitely want more than one catcher.

The purpose of this infield is to do the following: 1. Throw with your feet. 2. Throw to a target with urgency. 3. Receive the ball with the chest behind the ball whenever possible. 4. Simulate situational infield throwing and catching. 5. Impress your opponent that you can take INFIELD. Step 1 – “Star”

Practice this drill with one baseball until it is routine. A second baseball can be added, after the 2 nd throw, once the players are comfortable. 1st throw – Catcher to SS 2nd throw – SS to 1B 3rd throw – 1B to 3B 4th throw – 3B to 2B 5th throw – 2B to Catcher

Things to look for: - Receive the ball with two hands (2 out / 2 in / 1 out) - Chest behind the ball - Stepping to the ball as you receive ball - Stepping to target of your throw - Finishing your throw Step 2 – “Show & Go”

All balls are now fungo’d to infielders. Pretend there is a runner at third who DOES NOT break for home on contact.

1st Ball – hit to 3B who fields GB/shows ball to runner/throws to 1B who throws to Catcher. 2nd Ball – hit to SS who fields GB/shows ball to runner/throws to 1B who throws to Catcher. 3rd Ball – hit to 2B who fields GB/shows ball to runner/throws to 1B who throws to Catcher. 4th Ball – hit to 1B who fields GB/3B yells “4!” – 1B throws to catcher who throws to 3B who throws to 2B (covered by 2 nd baseman) who throws to 1B who throws to catcher.

Version 1 70 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Coach should look for: - Feet move to the target for each throw. - The catcher swipe tags at home after he receives the 1 st throw from 1B. - Look for controlled throws, not hurried throws.

Step 3 – “Ground Outs”

The catcher makes cover up throws to the base after the second groundball to that infielder.

Two balls are hit, one at a time, to each infielder – one to glove side and one to backhand. The last ball hit to the infielder is away from the base that he covers.

1st two balls – Coach hits to 3B who throws to 1B. As the 1 st baseman throws to the catcher, the SS yells “Runner!” to simulate runner stealing 3 rd base. The catcher throws to 3B and 3 rd baseman makes a swipe tag. The 3 rd baseman now throws to 2B who throws to 1B who throws to catcher.

2nd two balls – hit to SS who throws to 1B. As 1B throws to catcher, he yells “Runner!” to simulate a steal of second which is covered by the SS who will swipe tag the second base and throw to 3B who throws to catcher.

3rd two balls – hit to 2B who throws to 1B. As 1B throws to catcher, he yells “Runner!” to simulate a steal of second which is covered by the 2B who will swipe tag the second base and throw to 3B who throws to catcher.

4th two balls – hit to 1B who throws to 3B. After the second throw to 3B, swipe tag of base by 3B who then throws to second base covered by 2B who throws to 1 st base covered by 1B who throws to the catcher.

5th two balls – are for the catcher to simulate a bunt down the first base line and a bunt down the third base line. On both of these, the catcher throws to 1B. 1B will throw to second covered by SS who throws to third base covered by 3B who throws to the catcher.

Coach should look for: - All players throw the ball so it does not touch the ground. - Catcher throws from behind home plate. - Infielders play through the ball. - The drill is so solid that it looks like the infielders are just playing catch. - Lots of talk among the players.

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Step 4 – “Double Plays”

The catcher makes cover up throws to the base after second ground ball to each infielder. Simulates runners on 1 st and 3 rd with less than two outs and stealing.

Two balls hit (one at a time) to Infielder – one to glove side and one to backhand side. Last ball hit to Infielder is away from the base that he covers on throws from catcher.

1st two balls – hit to 3B who throws to 2B who throws to 1B completing the double play. After the second GB, 3B will cover his base for the throw to third. As 1B throws to the catcher, he yells “Runner!” simulating the steal of 2 nd base with a runner on third. Catcher throws to 3B and all Infielders yell “4” for the return throw to the catcher.

2nd two balls – hit to SS who throws to 2B who throws to 1B completing the double play. After the second GB, SS will cover his base for the throw to second. As 1B throws to the catcher, he yells “Runner!” simulating the steal of 2 nd base with a runner on third. Catcher throws to second and all Infielders yell “4” for the return throw to the catcher.

3rd two balls – hit to 2B who throws to SS who throws to 1B completing the double play. After the second GB, 2B will cover his base for the throw to second. As 1B throws to the catcher, he yells “Runner!” simulating the steal of 2 nd base with a runner on third. Catcher throws to second and all Infielders yell “4” for the return throw to the catcher.

4th two balls – (one GB coming off the bag and the second from behind first) hit to 1B who throws to SS who throws to 1B completing the double play. If 1 st baseman can get back to the base to cover, the throw goes to 1B. If not, SS decoys throw to first, whirls and throws to 3B who throws to catcher.

5th two balls – are for the catchers throw to second base that is covered by SS and 2B. (One throw is covered by SS, and the second throw is covered by 2B). SS/2B throw to 1B to complete the double play. These throws come off simulated bunts in front of the plate.

Things to look for: - The feet of the SS/2B are not locked on the bag. - Throws are in the air to the target. - Ball is out of the glove of the player making the throw and the ball can be seen by the “turn man”.

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Step 5 – “Back Deep”

Infielders are back as deep as possible, on the edge of the outfield grass. Simulates the longest throw they will have to make to 1B.

1st ball – hit to the backhand of 3B on the LF foul line. 3 rd throws to 1B for the out. 2nd ball – hit to the backhand of SS in the hole. SS throws to 1B for the out. 3rd ball – hit to the backhand of 2 nd over the bag. 2B throws to 1B for the out. 4th ball – hit to 1B on the RF foul line who throws to 3B on the bag who throws it to 2B on the bag who throws to 1B on the bag who throws to catcher.

Things to look for: - Throw to 1 st /3 rd , infielder needs to rise to make throw to target. - Throws are strong and in the air to target.

Step 6 – “Slow Roller”

Infielders are back as deep as possible. A slower hit ball makes the fielder come get the ball with bare hand or glove.

1st ball – hit to 3B who charges ball and throws to 1B, within one step of touching GB. 2nd ball – hit to SS who charges ball and throws to 1B, within one step of touching GB. 3rd ball – hit to 2B who charges ball and throws to 1B, within one step of touching GB. 4th ball – hit to 1B who charges ball and throws to 3B, within one step of touching GB. 3B throws to 2B on the bag who throws to 1B on the bag who throws to catcher.

Things to look for: - Infielder making a balanced throw up the line to 1B. (Ball has to be thrown toward the RF foul line and away from the runner). - Infielder charges the ball HARD! - Infielder uses glove on slow roller to glove side of body. - Infielder uses bare hand on slow roller to throw side of body.

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Step 7 – “Cut Him Down”

Infielders are up on the front edge of the infield grass to make short hard throws to the catcher who has to tag at home plate. Simulates runner at third breaking towards home on contact.

Two balls are given to each infielder. First ball fungo’d by coach and the second rolled to infielder by catcher just as infielder is fielding the fungo’d ball.

1st ball – hit to 3B who throws to catcher to cut the runner. He fields the slow roller from the catcher and throws to 1B for the out. Then Infielder runs off the field to his dugout. 2nd ball – hit to SS who throws to catcher to cut the runner. He fields the slow roller from the catcher and throws to 1B for the out. Then Infielder runs off the field to his dugout. 3rd ball – hit to 2B who throws to catcher to cut the runner. He fields the slow roller from the catcher and throws to 1B for the out. Then Infielder runs to play first base for the final throw. 4th ball – hit to 1B who throws to catcher to cut the runner. He fields the slow roller from the catcher and throws to 1B (covered by 2B) for the out. Then Infielders run off the field to the dugout.

Things to look for: - Feet are in position to throw to plate before throw is made. - Throws do not expose the catcher to being knocked over by the runner. - Crisp/hard throws to the target. - Hustle off field after completion.

Again, the purpose of this infield is to make every possible throw that may happen in the game practiced prior to the game you are playing at that time. To make the opponent watch you when you take infield before games. Prove to your opponent that you can play catch and throw.

Any team can do this infield and it does make players move their feet to catch and throw. Concentration and focus is needed to make sure that no one is injured during this infield. Players need to know where the ball is going and where it is coming from. Players will learn to be visual and verbal during infield.

Version 1 74 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Practices

Always have a written and timed practice plan. Start on time. Both players and parents will get the idea.

One two-hour practice is more effective than 2 one-hour practices.

Get commitments from volunteer dads/moms at the outset. The team needs at least three coaches present to have a well-organized practice.

Make the warm-ups count - make them efficient, purposeful, and timed.

Work on fundamental throwing technique at every practice.

Work on long toss at every practice.

Run 3 to 4 stations at a time (tee work, soft toss, live pitch, infield practice/outfield practice, pitching drills, etc.). Avoid players waiting in lines. Change things up periodically after warm-ups.

Create mini-competitions and excitement throughout practice.

Work on base running situations and offensive/defensive situations at every practice.

Pitching and fielding will make you competitive more easily than hitting.

Work on pitching from day 1. Develop 4 to 6 players as pitchers and at least two others as catchers.

Hitting live pitching is far more useful than hitting machine pitch.

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Sample Practice Plan #1

Warm-up - 10 minutes

Slow Jog Stretch Legs Stretch Torso Stretch Arms

Base Running - 10 minutes

Infield Hit (Through First) Round First (Single) Run for a Double Run for a Triple Note: After each sprint to a base, the player should jog back to home plate.

Throwing - 10 minutes

One partner should be on foul line and the other in the outfield. 4-corners throwing

Stations - Total of 40 minutes (10 minutes each)

Ground Balls Pop-ups / Fly Balls Hitting on field or in batting cage/s Fielding balls hit by batter or hitting off of batting tees Note: Groundball and Flyball stations need to be outside of the playing field if the players are hitting on the baseball diamond.

Team Work Examples - 50 minutes

Scrimmage Work-up Cut-offs / Relays Run-Downs Base Stealing Base Running – rounding, tagging up, look-in, look-out, etc.

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Sample Practice Plan #2

Jog, stretch, sprints Basic ¾ power overhand throws - Include basic step, catch, and throw routine - One knee throwing drills and isolate wrist snap drills Long ball throwing - Incorporate variations including relay drills - Include footwork drills (jab steps, cross over steps, drop steps)

Note: the above is standard at all practices. The routines below vary from practice to practice.

Fielding ground ball drills. - Basic infield warm-up drills. o Corners field and throw to first and home. o Middle infield work on going to the bag (2B). - Demonstrate how to field, how to throw, and where the throw should be. - Show the receiver of the ball how to go to the bag and how to receive the ball.

Outfield drills. - Ground ball basics. - Fly ball basics

Hitting Drills. - Set up hitting stations based on equipment and volunteer help available. - Basic T drill - Soft toss drills - Balance beam slow motion swing drills while waiting your turn batting. - Hitting live and off pitching machine when time permits. - Bunts (basics of sacrifice bunt, slap bunting, drag bunting, etc.). o Note: a left-hand slap hitter should be able to run from home to 1B in 3.0 seconds. Otherwise, it’s a waste of time to teach.

Basics of Running. - Include the mechanics of running, running from home to first (ground ball), rounding the bag, and advancing bases. - When time permits, include steals (straight and delayed), hotbox plays, and sliding.

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Sample Game Day Routine

Warm-ups Jogging Dynamic stretching Throwing o Wrist snaps for 5 minutes o “21” for 10 minutes o Long toss for 10 minutes

Infield warm-up - Skipper Infield

Outfield warm-up

Pitcher warm-up (starter and reliever, with catchers in full gear) Review signs with catcher Full motion on all pitches 10 fastballs – down the middle 10 change ups – down the middle 3 curves (if pitcher permitted to throw curves) 5 fastballs inside 5 fastballs outside 2 change ups 2 high fastballs 3 fastballs

Batting Practice (if cage available) Three bunts 9 swings (3 pitches inside, 3 center, 3 outside)

In dugout: Review game plan Review batting order Review offensive and defensive signs

Version 1 78 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Coaching Decisions

Line Up and Substitutions

Starting line up Hitter Quality or Traits 1 Good eye, patient, excellent knowledge of strike zone, seldom K’s, high percentage on base, puts the ball in play, very quick and fast. 2 Good bunter, knows how to advance the runner, good speed, contact hitter. 3 Best offensive player, has power and high batting average. 4 Best power hitter, high RBIs, handles pressure. 5 Next best batter. 6 Next best batter. 7 Similar to #2 hitter, not as much base speed, draws walks. 8 Weakest batting average in line up. 9 Gets on base any way possible, weak hitter, but quick and fast.

Substitutions - Good speed - Smart - Knows how to come hard and slide - Timing of substitutions: a. Usually late in the game or when you need to advance a runner b. The starting athlete is slow or not good at sliding, etc. - Alternatives: a. Get everyone in the game b. Big lead, play the bench c. Change the makeup of the game for the opponent d. Pull the pitcher because loss of confidence

Version 1 79 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide 1st Base Coach

The batter base runner is the responsibility of the 1B coach until he rounds first and goes toward second. Once the runner advances toward 2 nd base, the 3B coach takes over.

On leads off 1B, the 1B coach helps the runner spot the pitcher’s movement and brings him back on pick plays.

Guidelines: - Hustle to and from the 1B coaching box at all times. - Never say anything to a member of the other team if their dugout is on the 1B side. Ignore any improper comments from them. - Allow the head coach the opportunity to represent the ball club in any dispute. - Know the arm strength of the left fielder. You must assist the batter-runner in advancing when the ball is hit to the 3B side of the shortstop. - Assume a position in the coaching box as deep as possible so the batter-runner can easily pick you up as he approaches 1B on a ball hit to LF. Stay close to the baseline. - When assisting the batter-runner, use the following visual signs: a. No sign, you want the runner to run through the base b. Arms up, round the base aggressively but look for the ball. Hold unless error. c. Wave arm in circular motion means go to the next base. d. Flash the sign when the runner is halfway to 1B. - The batter-runner must read a poor throw and react appropriately. - Make the runner aware of the number of outs and other runners. If he misses a sign or is confused, help him out. - When the runner leads off, watch the fielders behind him (2B, RF) for pick off attempts. If the runner’s lead is too short, say, “okay one”. If the lead is too long, say “back one”. If you detect a pickoff move, yell “back…back”. - Inform the runner when the defense makes shifts. - Attempt to read the pickoff moves of the defense. - Encourage the runner to advance on pass balls and wild pitches. Also, steal on balls in the “dirt” when appropriate. - On base hits with the lead runner advancing from 2B or 3B to home, yell at the batter-runner “make the throw go through”. Watch for the cut play on your runner. - Inform the runner on short fly balls and tag up plays.

Version 1 80 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide 3rd Base Coach

Guidelines: - Hustle to and from the 3B coaching box at all times. - Never say anything to a member of the other team if their dugout is on the 3B side. Ignore any improper comments from them. - The head coach will argue with the umpires. - Know the arm strength of each defensive player. You must assist the batter-runner in any situation where they cannot see the ball. - Move around in the coaching box to keep sight of the ball and remain visible to your runners. Move towards home when sending the runner and then move toward left field to pick up the next runner. - You must know the speed and base running ability of each player.

Managing Third Base - Keep a grasp on the situation a. Time limits, run rules b. Home or visitor c. Inning, score, and number of outs d. Place in the batting order e. Importance of this particular game f. Weather and field conditions

- Knowledge of our team a. Speed and bench speed b. Awareness of the situation c. What can our hitters do? Can we score lots of runs? d. What is our ability to perform under pressure? e. Other considerations (do we leave someone in to develop them, etc.)

- Knowledge of the other team a. Type of schedule they play (highly competitive)? b. Record? c. Tendencies (what will they try to do in various situations)? d. Do they give away what they will do? e. How do they adjust defensively to bunts, steals, etc? f. Do they have good game sense, handle pressure, etc? g. Physical condition, injuries, game last night? h. Do they score a lot of runs? i. What coaching philosophy? (Important to win? Everyone plays? Run up the score?) j. What do we know about their pitchers, catcher, defense, and batters?

Version 1 81 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Guidelines for advancing base runners: Swing Delayed Runners Outs Bunt Steal Hit/Run Away Squeeze Steal 1B 0, 1 Great Good Good Normal N/a Ok 2 Seldom Good Great Normal N/a Good 2B 0, 1 Good Seldom Good Normal N/a Ok 2 Seldom Ok Great Normal N/a Good 3B 0, 1 for hit Seldom No Normal Good Good 2 Seldom No No Normal Bunt/run Great 1B & 2B 0, 1 Ok W/fake bunt Maybe Normal N/a Good 2 Seldom Ok Good Normal N/a Good 1B & 3B 0, 1 Seldom Or dbl steal Maybe Normal Good Great 2 Seldom Or dbl steal Yes Normal Seldom Great 2B & 3B 0, 1 Seldom Seldom Seldom Normal Great Yes 2 Seldom Seldom Seldom Normal Seldom Yes Loaded 0, 1 Seldom Seldom No Normal No Seldom 2 Seldom Seldom No Normal No Seldom

- Decision Time – ball in play a. Understand runner speed, quickness, brains, ability to turn corners, and slide. b. Understand defensive outfielder speed, quickness, arm strength, how he sets up to throw, number of steps to throw, whether he drops hands, and whether he double pumps. c. Know relay person depth (too shallow?) d. Knowledge of fielder at the bag i. Does he set up on the bag or off the bag? ii. Can he handle a short hop throw? iii. How does he apply the tag? e. Runner on first – bring him to third on deep fly base hits, balls to right when RF has a weak arm (throws rainbows), RF fields the ball toward the foul line, RF takes lots of steps, RF pumps to throw, weak relay player, or weak base fielder.

- Hit and Run (or Run & Hit) a. Batter is to hit behind the runner b. Two of three elements should be present in order to hit & run. i. High % of strikes thrown by pitcher ii. Good base speed iii. Good contact hitter c. Good pitch counts include 0-0, 1-0, 2-0, 2-1, 3-1 d. On hit & run, runner must go, and then look in for ball on third step off bag.

Version 1 82 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide - Ground ball and line drive guidance a. Runner on first (or first and second) i. Must go on all ground balls. ii. Avoid getting into a double play using a hard, safe slide. iii. If ball is in front of runner, the runner makes the decision on going to 3B. iv. If ball is behind runner, the runner looks to the 3B coach for the decision. v. Generally, on ball behind you with 2 outs, always take two bases. b. Runner on second i. Advance on any ground ball through the infield and most behind you. ii. Freeze on all line drives – see it through.

- Batter Base Runner (trailing runner) a. Take second on overthrows. b. Take extra base when play is on the lead runner and you have a high % of advancing safely. c. With 2 outs and next batter is very weak, create a hotbox situation to get an extra run in.

- Runner on Second a. Bring him home with two outs. Always take the extra base. b. Tag on deep fly balls and fly balls to RF when RF is weak. c. Bring him on any obvious weakness in the defense. d. Always look for and exploit any weak arms (side arm throws, rainbows). e. Take third on (after) throw from left side to 1 st base. f. Take third with idea of scoring on a ground ball behind you. i. If 1 st baseman drops the ball, you will score before he picks up the ball and recognizes that you are going. The trail runner should take second if possible.

- Runner on Third (depends on play) a. See it Through (less than 2 outs), go if: i. Runner must see the ball is past the 1 st or 3 rd baseman. ii. If to middle, the field must have to go left & turn back on throw. b. Go on Contact i. Big lead off third, run when batter hits the ball ii. Runner must see the downward trajectory of the ball c. Tag up plays i. Short fly ball = short lead ii. On most tag ups, the runner makes the decision to go when the fielder touches the ball. iii. Some coaches will use two signals: 1. Tag!: tag up and bluff toward home, come back to 3B. 2. Tag Up!: tag up and score when ball touched by outfielder.

Version 1 83 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Interaction with Players, Umpires, and Parents

Player Needs Questionnaire: 1. Why did you come out for the team this year? 2. Are there any particular skills you personally want to work on developing this year? 3. Where does participation in this sport fit into your priorities this year? 4. What do you like most about practice? 5. What do you like least about practice? 6. What can the coaching staff and/or your teammates do to help you this season? 7. Is there anything the coaching staff and/or your teammates should avoid doing or saying prior to a game? 8. What do you like to do before a content to prepare for competition? 9. Describe how you most like to receive corrective feedback. 10. List three ways you would like to be rewarded for your efforts. 11. List three things you perceive as being punishments. 12. Is there anything else you feel the coaching staff should know about you to help you reach your goals this season?

Interaction with Umpires:

Umpires are the absolute authority on the field, regardless of the accuracy of the call, crowd reaction, or age of the umpire. The decision of an umpire is final.

Only the head coach should address the umpire and only after the umpire grants time. All conversations should be conducted in a well-mannered tone with the objective of learning the umpire’s perspective.

No player should interact with an umpire other than to respond to a question, request time out, or ask for the count.

With coach permission, a catcher may interact with an umpire to learn the strike zone. Following a pitch, the catcher can ask the umpire about the pitch location: “Blue, was that pitch low?” or “Blue, was that pitch too far off the white?”

Batters also need to learn the strike zone of each umpire. Any player looking back at an umpire following a pitch is asking for a strike to be called. Players should never communicate their opinion of a call with body language.

Version 1 84 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Interaction with Parents:

Parents can be an excellent source for assistant coaches, statisticians, and team logistical support. Parents can be passionate about their child’s happiness and may be prone to sharing specific opinions. The coaching staff is well advised to conduct an organizational meeting at the first gathering to set expectations.

Sample Parent Meeting Topics (tailor to your league and age group)

Welcome and Introductions

Philosophy Put the ball in play Put the kids in position to succeed Get as sophisticated as the team/player will allow

Goals Have fun Learn more about baseball technique and strategy Evolve into error free defense Evolve into consistent run production

Season 12 practices, 18 games, potential for additional scrimmages as well We will play against 3 other in-house teams and these other leagues/cities… The schedule is not yet final, but will be posted online shortly. Opportunities for post-season play, tournaments, and all-star play will be communicated.

Key Baseball Rules (at this level) Rules will vary slightly at each park Adult umpires No run limits Must have 9 players to start a game otherwise forfeit Pitching Rules • Pitch counts • Curve balls • Playing both catcher and pitcher in a game Rest Rules • Days rest • Consecutive games Conduct rules • Umpires are always right, even when wrong • Fans shout only encouragement

Version 1 85 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Positions and Playing Time The league requires only one at bat and three consecutive outs in the field in a game. We plan to play each player in both infield and outfield in each game. Coaches will ask each player for favorite and hated positions. We plan to follow a 1/3, 1/3, 1/3 approach. We will attempt to keep defensive playing time roughly equal, but not promised. Players missing practices or games may see reduced playing time.

Batting Every player will bat regardless of whether he is playing in the field. Batting statistics will be tracked and will be a key input to the batting order. On base percentage and foot speed will also be key inputs to the batting order. Each game will start at the top of the batting order. Players batting at the bottom of the order will move up as performance dictates.

Time Off / Other Activities Vacations happen, recitals happen, illnesses happen – give advance notice as possible. Want to know now what other sports or commitments each player has scheduled. If your player is taking baseball lessons (they should), inform the coaches.

Coach Rules Run between the lines. Players must call coaches if they cannot attend a practice or game. No food or seeds in the dugout. Only coaches and players are permitted in the dugout. Maximum of 3 coaches (all with background checks) permitted in dugout during a game. No hat, no play. Long pants and cups are required to practice. No parent discussions before or during a game. Afterwards. Umpires, coaches, and players will make mistakes - shouts from the stands do not help.

Lessons All players will benefit from lessons. Skill development can increase dramatically with repetition using proper form.

When someone wants to learn how to hit a stationary round ball by swinging a flat surface (golf), lessons are the norm. When someone wants to learn how to hit a fast moving round ball, possibly curving, by swinging a curved surface, lessons SHOULD be the norm.

Lessons outside of the baseball practice/game schedule are strongly encouraged.

Version 1 86 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Equipment

Every player must wear a hat, long pants (ideally baseball pants), and a cup to every practice. Cleats are recommended (rubber through Little League, metal once in Babe Ruth). Helmets are provided in Little League. Players must provide their own helmet once in Babe Ruth.

Baseball bats are provided at the younger ages but are generally not provided in the older teams.

An approximate sizing chart is shown below. Check with your specific league (and any specific tournaments) for size limitations.

Approximate Bat Length (based on batter size) 3'-3'4" 3'5"-3'9" 3'10"-4' 4'1"-4'4" 4'5"-4'8" 4'9"-5' 5'1"-5'4" 5'5"-5'8" 5'9"-6' 6'1"+ < 60 lbs. 26" 27" 28" 29" 29" 61-70 27" 27" 28" 29" 30" 30" 71-80 28" 28" 29" 30" 30" 31" 81-90 28" 29" 29" 30" 30" 31" 32" 91-100 28" 29" 30" 30" 31" 31" 32" 101-110 29" 29" 30" 30" 31" 31" 32" 111-120 29" 29" 30" 30" 31" 31" 32" 121-130 29" 29" 30" 30" 31" 32" 33" 33" 131-140 29" 30" 30" 31" 31" 32" 33" 33" 141-150 30" 30" 31" 31" 32" 33" 33" 151-160 30" 31" 31" 32" 32" 33" 33" 33" 161-170 31" 31" 32" 32" 33" 33" 34" 171-180 32" 33" 33" 34" 34" 180+ lbs 33" 33" 34" 34"

Approximate Bat Weight 8-10 yr. olds 11-12 yrs Height (in) Bat Wt (oz.) Weight (lbs) Bat Wt (oz.) 48 16 70 18 50 16.5 80 19 52 17 90 19.5 54 17.5 100 20 56 18 110 20.5 58 18.5 120 21 60 19 130 21.5 Formula: Height /4 + 4 140 22 150 23 Formula: Weight /18 + 14

Version 1 87 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide What is the negative number on the aluminum bat? The negative number is the “drop” or “differential” of the bat – the difference between the weight (ounces) and length (inches) of the bat. Example: A 30” bat weighing 19 ounces has a drop of –11.

Little League allows for a bat with a 2 1/4” barrel and a –12 drop maximum.

Tonka Babe Ruth does not have official bat size restrictions, but most teams will play in tournaments and interleague games that do have restrictions. Here are recommendations that would meet past restrictions: - 13-year-olds - max of 2 5/8 inch barrel and no lighter than –9. - 14/15 - max of 2 5/8 inch barrel and no lighter than –5. - 16/17/18 - max of 2 5/8 inch barrel and no lighter than -3. - MN High School Rules – max of 2 5/8 inch barrel and no lighter than -3.

Junior Babe Ruth (13, 14, & 15 year olds) is a transition time and bat restrictions differ by league. For example some leagues, including TBR, allow 2 3/4 inch barrels. Others enforce the -3 drop at age 15. The guidelines above should work for all Babe Ruth games and 99% of the outside games in which TBR might participate.

Version 1 88 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Baseball Wisdom

Coach to Player

No one will take you out of the game because you worked too hard! You may be told you are out of the game because you are not good enough. Don’t be outworked.

Playing the game of baseball is precious and short lived. Treat it right and it will give you memories for life!

The longer we live, the more we realize the impact attitude has on our life. Attitude is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failure, than successes, than what others think, say, or do. It is more important than appearances or skill. It is not something that can be bought or won in a lottery. It will make or break a team…a church… a home. The remarkable thing is that we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one thing we have, and that is our attitude. Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it. We are in charge or our attitudes and the life we live. If being the best really means something to you, you will be.

Success is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration.

Coach to Coach

Players do not care how much you know until they know how much you care.

Not everyone will like you. No matter how many games you win, not everyone is going to consider you the greatest coach. Particularly the athletes that don’t play often, the parents of the athlete you had to discipline, and the opposing coach. Ignore the criticism. Do what is right for your team. The more success you have, the more criticism you’ll receive.

Try to play everyone.

Never run up the score. Find a way to keep the score respectable. Earn the respect of your competitors. Never intentionally embarrass others.

Be on time… everywhere. That goes for practices, games, and meetings.

Improve yourself. Make a sincere effort to read books about your sport, attend clinics, write articles, go to college games, and talk with other coaches. Give back to your sport.

When bad things happen, go back to fundamentals. When you hit a losing streak, put the trick plays back in the playbook. Practice basics – good things will happen.

Version 1 89 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide

Minimize your pep talks. Be brief and to the point. Most people stop listening after 7-10 minutes.

Never criticize officials in public. Negative criticism inspires a losing attitude. It’s an excuse for losing.

Spend time with average players. Let your assistants work with the superstars. You work with the bottom of the order. Make them feel important and they will improve by leaps and bounds. When the game is on the line, who is up to bat?

Player to Coach

I may forget what you said or did, but I’ll never forget how you made me feel.

The Ten Commandments of Baseball by Joe McCarthy 1. Nobody ever became a ballplayer by walking after a ball. 2. You will never become a .300 hitter unless you take the bat off your shoulder. 3. An outfielder who throws behind a runner is locking the barn after the horse is stolen. 4. Keep your head up and you may not have to keep it down. 5. When you start to slide, S-L-I-D-E. He who changes his mind may have to change a good leg for a bad one. 6. Do not alibi on bad hops. Anybody can field the good ones. 7. Always run them out. You can never tell. 8. Do not quit. 9. Do not find too much fault with the umpires. You cannot expect them to be as perfect as you are. 10. A pitcher who hasn’t control hasn’t anything.

Good Hitting Absolutes by Charley Lau: - Balanced workable stance a. Bend at hips, then at knees b. Gives you a solid, comfortable base to work from - Rhythm and movement in the stance a. Allows for a quicker weight shift - Good weight shift from a firm backside forward to hit from a firm front side a. Don’t anchor the back foot. Come up on it or you may come off it on outside pitches. The knees are slightly bent, but firm. - Stride with the front toe closed a. Take a short natural step - Have the bat in the launching (load) position at the moment the front foot touches down.

Version 1 90 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide a. Step and swing – don’t combine the two motions - Make a positive aggressive motion back toward the pitcher a. Quick – explosive. Go into the ball to hit it. - Tension free swing a. Be relaxed and fluid - Put your head down when you swing a. Lower your head to watch the ball at the moment of contact b. See the bat hit the ball…most important phase of hitting - Use the whole field a. Go with the pitch - Hit through the ball, finish high a. Keep the top hand on the bat as long as possible…it may come off - Other considerations a. Swing a controllable bat b. Keep arms slightly away from body c. Swing level – keep shoulders and hips level d. Keep front shoulder in e. Positive attitude – you know you can hit the ball f. Work out…lift weights, work with handgrips, etc. g. Work on form. Swing the bat 100 times per day.

List six ways for the offense to obtain 1 st base, without hitting the ball: 1. Base on balls (intentional walk) 2. Hit by pitch 3. Dropped third strike 4. Wild pitch (passed ball) 5. Catcher’s obstruction 6. Pinch runner

A runner can score from 3 rd base but not from 2 nd base on… 1. Illegal pitch 2. Catcher’s obstruction 3. Wild pitch 4. Passed ball 5. Hard hit ground ball through infield and directly to outfielder 6. Infielder’s error (ground ball) 7. A short pop fly, dropped 8. A short line drive single 9. A sacrifice fly 10. A fly ball dropped by an outfielder 11. A fair pop up dropped by an infielder with two outs 12. A walk to hit by pitch with the bases full 13. A wild throw to the pitcher from the catcher 14. A ground ball, early in the game with runners on 1B and 3B, no outs, and the defense goes for the double play 15. Pitcher drops the ball to the ground in his wind up

Version 1 91 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide 16. A wild throw by the catcher in a pick off attempt 17. With runners on 1B and 3B, catcher throws to 2B on a steal 18. Runner on 1B or 2B is picked off base while in a run down 19. A suicide squeeze bunt 20. A steal of home 21. An error on an infielder’s throw to first 22. Obstruction by an infielder on a run down play on the runner at 3B

Version 1 92 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Resources

Favorite publications: - Coaching Youth Baseball the Ripken Way, Ripken and Ripken. - Baseball Strategies – Your Guide to the Game within the Game, Stallings and Bennett. - Little League Instructional Guide, Jeff Burroughs. - Managing Little League Baseball, Ned McIntosh. - Strike One - A Guide to Proper Pitching Mechanics. Todd Oakes. - Why Good Coaches Quit - And How You Can Stay in the Game, Anderson and Aberman. - Heads-Up Baseball, Ravizza and Hanson. - Baseball Playbook, Polk. - Coaching Baseball Successfully, Lopez and Kirkgaard. - Baseball Coach's Survival Guide, Weinstein and Alston. - The Baseball Coach's Bible, Kindell and Winken. - Baseball Skills & Drills, ABCA/Johnson, Leggett, and McMahon.

Favorite links: Barton's Youth Baseball, http://youthbaseball_e_zine.homestead.com/index.html . Good source for drills to help beginning coaches teach the game.

E Team.Com, http://www.eteamz.com/baseball/instruction/tips/ . Good source for drills.

Baseball Excellence, http://www.baseball-excellence.com . See the link for instructions and fundamentals.

Local sources for coach and player instruction: Minnesota Baseball Academy, http://www.minnesotabaseballacademy.com/ .

Pine Tar Academy, http://www.pinetaracademy.com/ .

Players Only, http://www.playersonlyinc.com/ .

Swingtown Baseball Training, http://www.swingtownmarketing.com

Version 1 93 Minnetonka Baseball Coaching Guide Blank Form - Batting Order / Positions

Prepare the line-up and positions before the game. Hang it on a clipboard in the dugout. No player needs to ask where he’s batting or fielding.

Keep these sheets so you can track attendance, playing time, and variation in positions.

1 2 3 4 5 6

Brendan 3B 3B sit RF RF 2B

Thomas LF LF sit SS SS SS

Michael P P P sit LF LF

Erik C C C 1B 1B Sit

Joe sit 2B 2B 2B CF CF

…

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1 2 3 4 5 6

Remember the signs. Call timeout and ask if you forget.

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