Few youth activities provide the combination of physical exercise, camaraderie and fun that Little League baseball offers. And while you undoubtedly would like to see your son become a champion at the sport, winning is not always priority No. 1. In fact, according to a 1989 survey conducted by researchers at Michigan State University, more children said they play sports for fun than any other reason. Still, training your child to play hardball will give him greater chances of individual and team success, which can enhance the joy he derives from his days on the diamond.
Step 1
Pair your players and have them stand facing each other at a distance at which they're comfortable throwing the ball. Have them toss the ball back and forth for 10 minutes, and then have each of them step back 5 feet. Do another 10 minutes, and then add another 10 feet of distance. Finally, space them out as far as they can possibly throw the ball, and have them do a few minutes of long toss. Long toss improves throwing accuracy and ranges close and far, and it also stretches out and strengthens players arms and shoulders.
Step 2
Round up two other coaches and set up three teams of players, each consisting of an outfielder, and infielder and a catcher. At the same time, all three coaches should throw or hit a fly ball to their respective outfielder. The outfielder must field the ball, then quickly and accurately throw it to his infield teammate, who must then turn and fire it to his catcher. Instruct your infielders always to turn toward their glove side when pivoting to throw the ball home, as this makes for a quicker and more natural throwing motion. Award a small prize to the team that wins the most relays. This drill is essential because the relay play comes into play frequently during actual games, and efficiency is a must.
Step 3
Group players into fours and have three of them form a semi-circle facing the fourth player, who should be standing roughly 15 feet away, facing them and in his batting stance. One player starts the game by tossing the ball underhand to the batter, who then taps a soft line-drive or a ground ball at any of the three fielders. The fielder then quickly scoops the ball and tosses it to the batter underhanded again. Players can rotate between fielding spots and the hitting spot bases on number of pitches or "outs" recorded. This game, called Pepper, develops bat control in hitters and quick reactions in fielders.
Step 4
Set up your player facing a backstop or other fence, holding a bat and standing in his batting stance. Kneel facing him, with a bucket of balls at your side. One after another, toss the ball underhand toward his strike zone, and have him try to hit line drives into the fence. Aim for varying heights on your tosses so that he learns to adjust to pitches in different locations. Have him pivot on his front foot when swinging as if he's squishing a bug. This will force him to turn his body into his swing, thus generating optimum power.
Things You'll Need
- Baseball bats
- Baseball gloves
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