This softball baserunning speed drill is a simple drill that puts the pressure on the players on the field while runners are on the move. It also puts importance on good baserunning mechanic by the baserunners. We do not often spend time on baserunning mechanics because we assume that running is running. That is not the case however because for example, if the runner steps on the inside corner of the base with their inside foot, it will actually decrease the time it take to get around the base. By keeping their hands closer to their sides and pumping their elbows, it does actually increase speed, just like starting lower and standing up as they accelerate off the base. How they leave home plate will also impact how quickly the runners get to first base. Rounding the bases and using good running form will help the runners touch the most bases.
Softball Baserunning Speed Drill
Divide the group into 2 teams. One team is at bat with a tee or soft-toss, the other team has one fielder on third base and one on first base. The batter hits the ball off the tee or from a soft-toss as hard as she can and runs as many bases as she can until BOTH fielders have touched the ball. After the batter hits, rotate the fielders off the field. The next person on the defensive team goes to the first base position and the first base position player goes to the third base side and then rotates off the field a the new player enters.
Keep score by counting bases reached before the ball is touched. After all batters have batted, switch sides.
If you have a young team you can start with more player on the field. The purpose of the drill is for the baserunner to touch a many bases a he can more than it i for the defense. Smaller players can not cover as much ground and the baserunners are generally faster. You could also make the field smaller to adjust for the speed and skills.
