Tee Ball Base Running

A Fun and Engaging Way for Young Players to Learn the Basics of Running the Bases

Running the Bases for kids in the Little League Tee Ball Division introduces young players to the base path in a fun, energetic way, teaching them how to run the bases in the correct order with excitement and confidence.

This drill is a perfect introduction to base running for young tee ball players. With consistent practice, players will gain confidence in knowing the base order, setting a strong foundation for their future in baseball.

Difficulty Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (Easy)
Time Estimate: 10-15 minutes

Setup:

  1. Equipment Needed:
  • Bases (set up in a diamond shape, ideally 60 feet apart for tee ball)
  • Cones or markers (optional, for additional guidance or boundaries)
  • Whistle or bell (optional, to signal when to start and stop)
  1. Player Positioning:
  • Arrange players near home plate so they can start running the bases in the correct order.
  • Have a coach or assistant stationed at each base to help guide players if they need direction.
  1. Field Setup:
  • Ensure all bases are set up in the correct diamond shape.
  • Place cones along the base path if you’d like to help guide the runners or keep the younger players on track.

How to Run the Drill:

  1. Introducing the Bases:
  • Begin by introducing the players to each base, pointing out where first, second, third, and home plate are located. Walk them around the diamond once or twice while naming each base so they start to understand the base path.
  1. Fun Base Running Drill:
  • Line up players at home plate, and explain that they’ll be running around the bases just like they would in a real game. Emphasize the correct order: first base, second base, third base, and finally back to home.
  • Use a fun story to make it more engaging. For example, tell them they’re “running to each base to pick up their favorite snacks” or “sprinting to get away from a friendly mascot.” This makes the drill feel like an adventure rather than just a practice drill.
  1. Running the Drill:
  • Call out, “Ready, set, go!” and have each player start running from home to first base, following the base path around the diamond in the correct order.
  • If the group is large, have players go one or two at a time so each child can focus on the order without crowding. Encourage cheering and high-fives to keep the energy up.
  • Once they reach home plate, celebrate their “home run” with a cheer or fun celebration like a high-five line. Reinforce that they did a great job following the base path in the correct order.
  1. Repetitions:
  • Repeat the base running sequence 2-3 times to help reinforce the order and allow each child to feel comfortable and confident running the bases.

Why You Run This Drill:

The Running the Bases drill teaches young players the fundamental concept of base running in baseball. For players as young as 4-5 years old, the base path can be confusing, and they may run to the wrong base or skip bases entirely. This drill introduces the correct order of the bases in a playful, memorable way, helping them build good habits for when they play real games.

Key Skills Developed:

  • Base Path Awareness: Helps young players understand the order of the bases, setting a foundation for proper base running as they advance.
  • Coordination and Speed: Allows young players to practice running with purpose, developing their coordination and basic running skills.
  • Following Directions: Teaches players to follow a specific sequence, building focus and listening skills essential in baseball.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Fun and Engaging: The drill keeps young players entertained and active, which is essential at this age.
  • Builds Foundation Skills: Players learn the correct base path early on, helping them build good habits for future games.
  • Positive Reinforcement: Celebrating each player’s “home run” builds confidence and enthusiasm for the game.

Cons:

  • Short Attention Spans: Younger players may lose focus, so it’s essential to keep the drill fast-paced and upbeat.
  • Repetitive for Some Players: Players who learn the base path quickly may get bored, so you may need to add challenges, like running with a pretend scenario, to keep it fun.

Coaching Notes & FAQs

Coaching Tips:

  • Make it Fun: Young players respond well to play-based learning. Use fun stories or themes, like “pirate treasure” at each base or “collecting magic points” as they round the bases, to keep them engaged.
  • Use Visuals: For younger players who are still learning numbers and sequence, consider using visual markers, like colored cones or symbols, at each base. This can help them recognize the correct order.
  • Keep it Encouraging: Every time a player completes the base path, give them praise. Positive reinforcement goes a long way in building excitement for the game.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. What if players run to the wrong base?
  • If a player runs to the wrong base, gently guide them to the correct one without making them feel bad. This is a learning process, so keep it lighthearted and encouraging. Remind them of the base order before the next turn.
  1. How do I handle a large group?
  • If you have a large group, run the drill in small waves of 2-3 players at a time. This allows each player to focus on their path without crowding or confusion. While one group runs, keep the others engaged by cheering for their teammates.
  1. Can this drill be adapted for older players?
  • Absolutely! For older players, you can increase the challenge by timing their base running, encouraging proper turns, or even having them run the bases as a relay with their teammates. These variations help make the drill more challenging as players develop.