306 BASE COACHING TASKS AND TIPS

The base coach contributes to a winning effort just like the players. They have to make decisive judgement in holding or sending runners. Although, runners are generally responsible for their own actions, base coaching can be a big help to them. As they can help runners in locating the ball and give them directions.

Coaching First Base:
1. Be alert and encourage the batter and runners.
2. Help the runner find the ball before he leads off.
3. Watch the pitcher and catcher for a pick off play.
4. Alert the runner if he should go for two bases on a batted ball.

Coaching Third Base:
1. Coaches must know their own players speed and instincts as well as the
    defence of the opposing team.
2. Coaches should understand the percentages involved with plays having
    runners at third and the ball hit to the infield. With this knowledge they can
    make the right decision as to the advancement instructions to the runners.
3. Your signals must be clear and emphatic so there is no confusion.
4. You must watch the middle infielders when there is a runner on second base
    and be ready to alert the runner if there is a pick off attempt.
5. Keep the base runners alerted to game situations as they change.

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