So what makes a good baserunner? Let’s review this. As far as I know, there are two ways to get from point A to point B to point C as fast as possible. Run very fast or close the distance.
Learning to cut the bases.
You just hit a high, hard fastball and send it screaming to left center, you immediately know you have an extra base hit.
Running as fast as he can and knowing where the ball was hit, as he gets closer to first base he will sway slightly into foul territory, shifting his approach to first base from straight to an angle.
Step on the inside of first base, with your right foot if possible, but don’t miss a step, hit it with your left foot. This allows him to touch base without any reduction in speed and propels him straight toward second base. As you may remember from high school math…the closest avenue from point A to point B is a straight line.
As you approach a small pass halfway to second base, look to your third base coach for direction, as he’s been watching the ball the entire time. If he tells you to continue to third base, you turn slightly toward right field as you approach second base. Hit the base in the inside corner with your right foot, which, again, will propel you straight toward third base.
Rules for Running the Bases
Speed is only a small part of being a good baserunner and in some cases it turns into a negative because the runner will foolishly think they can beat the baseball no matter the situation.
There are certain cardinal rules for running the bases that, if learned and followed, will make you a very good baserunner.
Never attempt to advance a base when the ball is hit in front of you.
You’re the runner on second, the batter hits a ground ball to shortstop. You never try to advance to third. You must assume that the shortstop will clear the field with the ball. The first responsibility of all fielders is to try to get the lead runner out and since his throw to third is so short, he will easily get you out at third base.
You are the runner on base and the batter hits a whoop line. As a runner, you are taught to run on contact. This is still true, but as with all rules, there are exceptions. You always have to know where the ball is hit, it’s not a ground ball, so you’re not in a forced situation, don’t try to drive forward unless the ball goes through the infield.
You’re the runner on second base, the batter hits a ground ball to the right side of the infield. This is a situation where he runs at the sound of contact, since he can see the ball is on the ground (there is no starting line), the second baseman won’t even consider a throw to third unless he trips.
You are the runner on second when the batter flies out to right field. You immediately realize that if the right fielder misses the ball, you’ll be able to score from second base, so your goal is to try to get to at least third base.
By buntting, you must decide if the ball is hit deep enough for you to drive forward or if the right fielder’s arm is weak or strong. Deciding the ball is deep enough, he times his jump from second base to instantly be over the catch and advance to third. Don’t hesitate, run as hard as you can.
Lastly, you are the runner on second base and the batter flies out to left field. While looking at the left fielder, go a third of the way to third and wait to see if they catch the ball. (Remember to try to move forward with a hit ball in front of you.)
If they catch the ball, return to second base immediately, if it strays, advance to third.
In short, a smart baserunner is always aware of his situation. He knows if there are other runners and his speed. He knows if he’s the fastest runner on the team, but the slowest runner is at second base in front of him, he has to be careful not to run over his own teammate’s back.
As opposing outfielders throw their practice pitches between innings, watch them and see if you spot a weak arm. You may be able to run with that arm later in the game.
It is important that all players, fast or slow, are taught that they can become excellent baserunners. Follow the cardinal rules and always think.
