Coaching a Runner at First Base

Video Transcript

"Hello, my name is Adrian Arceo. Now, as a first base coach, it's your job to make sure that the runner on first base is focused at all times. Now, what this means is that you're going to have to constantly communicate with him after every pitch, because after the pitch is thrown the situation is going to change depending on what happens. You want to remind him how many outs there are, what inning it is, what the count is and also if there's a play going on. Now, for example: if it's two outs and the count is full, you want to let your runner know that he can start running to second base as soon as the pitch is thrown. Another thing you want to make your runner aware of, is how aggressive the pitcher is actually being at keeping guys on first base. If your guy falls asleep on the base he's going to get picked off. So, let him know, hey, the pitcher's looking at you, you may want to cut back a little bit. Now, if you see a pitcher is being very aggressive at keeping runners at first base, you want to just let him know to maybe ease up on his lead a little bit, that way he doesn't get picked off. But, if you notice that the pitcher is being very lazy, you may want to let him know to open up a little bit that way he gets closer to second base. Another thing is the count, for example: if you have a full count with two outs, you want to let your runner know that he can start running just as soon as the pitcher gets rid of the ball. Also, the innings is important. Now, when the game starts you can actually gamble and risk a little bit more, but as the game progresses and it gets closer and closer to the end, the last thing you want to do is have your guy gamble on something and then just totally ruin the game for your team. Now, if your player does get picked off at first base, it's usually because he's falling asleep and he's not focused on the game. The runner has to be able to stay focused after every pitch, because if he misses a sign or he misses a beat, it can cost you the entire game. So, remember it's the first base coaches job to make sure that the runner on first, is always focused."