How to Become a Better Baserunner

Baserunning is one of the most essential skills in baseball. It’s not just about speed—it’s about awareness, instincts, and execution. Whether you’re trying to stretch a single into a double or score the game-winning run, effective baserunning can be the difference between winning and losing. Here’s how to take your baserunning game to the next level.

1. Master the Basics

Before you can become an elite baserunner, you need to nail the fundamentals:

• Proper Running Form: Run with your chest slightly forward, pump your arms, and maintain a consistent stride. Efficiency beats raw speed in most situations.

• Explosive Starts: Practice quick first steps out of the batter’s box or off a lead. Reaction time can make or break your ability to beat a throw.

• Sliding Technique: Learn when and how to slide. Headfirst slides are quicker but riskier; feet-first slides are safer but can be slower. Use the technique best suited to the situation and your comfort level.

2. Be Mentally Engaged

Elite baserunners are mentally ahead of the game. Always think, “What’s next?”

• Know the Situation: Understand the number of outs, the count, and where the ball might be hit. For example, with two outs, you’re running on contact, while with less than two outs, you may have to hold up on a fly ball.

• Read the Field: Study outfielders’ arm strength and positioning before the play. Look for gaps or tendencies to misplay balls.

3. Lead Off Like a Pro

Taking a good lead is crucial for stealing bases or getting a jump on balls in play.

• Primary Lead: Stay balanced and about 3-4 steps off the base. Be ready to dive back if the pitcher checks you.

• Secondary Lead: When the pitcher starts their motion, take two aggressive shuffles toward the next base. Be in motion but ready to react.

• Timing: Watch the pitcher’s move. Many have tendencies like long strides or a certain rhythm. Use these cues to time your lead and potential steal.

4. Hone Your Instincts

Instinctual baserunning separates good players from great ones.

• Read the Ball Off the Bat: Anticipate where the ball will go and decide quickly whether to advance. Trust your gut but also practice reacting to different hits.

• Listen to Coaches: Use your base coaches as your eyes. Look at them as you approach second or third, but also take responsibility for reading the play.

5. Improve Your Speed and Agility

While speed isn’t everything, it definitely helps.

• Sprints and Drills: Incorporate sprinting drills to build raw speed. Cone drills can improve your agility and quickness around bases.

• Strength Training: Focus on explosive leg workouts like squats, lunges, and plyometrics to boost your power and acceleration.

• Endurance: Long games require stamina. Mix interval training with steady cardio to improve your endurance.

This is an area that I can assist with particularly well via virtual coaching!!!

6. Be Aggressive but Smart

Aggression can put pressure on the defense, but it must be calculated.

• Take the Extra Base: Always look for opportunities to advance. If the outfielder bobbles the ball, push for the next base.

• Know When to Hold: Sometimes, staying at the current base is the smarter play. Don’t risk a costly out by being overly aggressive.

7. Learn from the Best

Study players known for their baserunning, such as Rickey Henderson or Lou Brock. Watch videos of their games and analyze how they anticipate plays, take leads, and steal bases.

8. Practice, Practice, Practice

Baserunning is a skill that improves with repetition. Set up game-like scenarios during practice:

• Simulate stealing bases against live pitchers.

• Practice running first-to-third or second-to-home on hits to the outfield.

• Work on timing your jumps off pitchers and reacting to pick-off attempts.

In Conclusion

Baserunning is a combination of physical skill, mental sharpness, and instinct. By mastering the fundamentals, staying engaged, and practicing with intention, you can become a game-changing force on the basepaths. Remember, great baserunners don’t just rely on speed—they rely on smart decisions and preparation.

Take these tips to heart, and the next time you’re on the bases, you’ll give your team the edge they need to win.

Now, go run like the game depends on it—because it often does! Let’s get out there together… Let me know how I can help you!

~Lucas