Team Defense Drill: Force Out, Tag Out (Baseball & Softball)
Teaches the difference between force outs and tag outs. Fielders practice tagging runners or racing to bases on coach commands.
How to Run This Drill
- Divide the group into pairs of one runner and one fielder with a glove and a ball. Spread the pairs out across the base pads standing about 10 feet apart.
- Once set, call out one of two commands:
- On "Tag Out!" - the player with the ball must try to tag their partner.
- On "Force Out!" - the fielder must run to a bag and tag it with their foot before the runner gets there.
- Players get a point each time they tag a base or another player, so ask them to keep track of their score.
- After about 60 seconds, call stop and have the runners and fielders switch
- positions.
Coaching Points
- On the playground tag means youre it - on the diamond tag means youre out
- Force out = tag the base before the runner arrives
- Tag out = tag the runner with the ball
- Help younger players understand the difference between the two types of outs
Quick Actions
At a Glance
Equipment Needed
Similar Drills You Might Like
Explore more drills to build your practice plan and develop well-rounded skills
Refuse to Lose
Advanced competitive drill where offense and defense face high-pressure late-game scenarios with rewards for winning each situation.
Belly Up
Reaction drill where players start lying on their backs and must quickly get up to field ground balls. Builds explosiveness and focus.
Groundball Quick Catch
Fast-paced drill emphasizing clean catches over flashy plays. Partner rolls ground balls at varying speeds and angles.
Add This Drill to Your Practice Plan
Use our free Practice Planner to build complete practice plans with this drill and 100+ others. Drag and drop to customize timing and order.
Try the Practice PlannerFree forever - No account required