When a runner gets caught between bases (a “pickle”), most kids panic and run in zigzags. The right move: commit to one direction, force the fielder to throw, then go the other way if you can. This drill teaches the read.
What you need: Two bases set 60 feet apart. Two fielders with gloves. A baseball.
Setup: Runner halfway between two bases. Fielders at each base. Ball starts with one fielder.
How to run it:
- Fielder with the ball runs at the runner. The runner has to react.
- Rule: runner commits to one direction (back to the original base, usually safer). Sprint full speed.
- The fielder either tags or throws to the other fielder. If they throw, the runner reverses and sprints the other way.
- Each reversal costs the defense a throw. The more throws, the more chances they drop the ball.
- Do 6 reps. Reset the runner each time.
What to watch: Is the runner committing to a direction or zigzagging? Zigzagging means they get tagged. Commit, force a throw, react.
If they’re struggling: Slow it down. Walk through the rundown at half speed.
If they’ve got it: Add a third fielder. Now the defense has more options and the runner has to read who has the ball.