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
Categories
Team DefenseInfield
Focus Areas
SituationalTagging
Age Groups
7-89-1011-12
Players
4-18 players
Difficulty
beginner
Equipment Needed
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