Baserunning Drill: Leads and Breaks (Baseball & Softball)
Advanced baserunning drill teaching proper leadoff stance, reading pitchers, and explosive first steps for stealing or advancing on wild pitches.
How to Run This Drill
- Runners line up at first base. Coach or player simulates a pitcher on the mound.
- Runners practice the proper leadoff: athletic stance, weight on balls of feet, hands ready.
- Take a shuffle-step lead while watching the pitcher. Keep your weight balanced.
- Practice reading the pitcher: watch the front shoulder and lead leg for timing cues.
- On the steal signal, explode with a crossover step - first step should be aggressive.
- Also practice getting back on pickoff attempts - dive back with hand on the base.
Coaching Points
- Keep weight on balls of feet in your leadoff stance
- Watch the pitcher front shoulder and leg for timing
- First step on steal should be an explosive crossover
- Keep your head up to read the play as it develops
- Practice both primary leads and secondary leads
- Work on getting good jumps without being picked off
Quick Actions
At a Glance
Equipment Needed
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