Equipment Needed
- Baseball field or infield area
- Baseballs
Setup
- Place runners on first and second base; coach or pitcher works from the mound.
- Use a catcher to simulate throws or have a coach at home plate to receive throws.
Instructions
- Runners practice taking a proper lead off the base, ready to return if a pickoff attempt occurs.
- Coach simulates pitch and occasional pickoff throws - runners work on quick returns and timing.
- Run controlled steal reps where the runner takes the lead, reads the pitcher, and breaks on a cue; focus on slide technique into second base.
Coaching Points
- Keep weight on the balls of the feet for a quicker first step.
- Watch the pitcher's arm and hips for cues; don't get deceived by head fakes.
- Practice safe sliding technique to reduce injury risk.