How to Slide Into Home

Sliding into home base when playing baseball can cause injuries. There are many ways baseball players can score when sliding into home base without risking injury.

Instructions

1. Pick up signals from your teammates. The on deck batter should be waving his hands down (to the left or right) indicating where you should slide when avoiding an oncoming throw.

2. Slide feet first. Going into home head first increases your risk of hand, shoulder and face injuries. In addition, the catcher is in a perfect position to nail you with a well-placed cleat or shin guard.

3. Perform a bent leg slide. All slides (with the exception of going head first) are based on this slide. Tuck one leg under as you slide on both sides of your butt and lower back. The extended leg remains relaxed with your foot aimed directly at the catcher's mitt.

4. Try to hook slide. If the catcher already has the baseball, trying hooking your slide to the inside or outside of home plate. Whatever side the catcher is on (inside or outside of home) hook your slide to the opposite side to avoid a tag.

5. Go in the back door. The back door slide is also done to avoid a tag. Use a bent leg slide away from the catcher and reach for home with the hand closest to the plate. If the catcher attempts to touch your hand, pull it away, roll over and touch home with the other hand.

6. Knock the ball loose. If the catcher already has the baseball, head towards his glove side on your way to home. Hopefully the impact with his glove will jar the ball loose. Always avoid colliding with the catcher to prevent injuries.