Early Season Baseball Drills

The early part of the baseball season is an ideal time for a team of any age or experience level to begin building sound fundamentals and strong work habits.

  1. Accurate Throws

    • When a player makes a bad throw, have him immediately sprint to retrieve it and sprint back to position before throwing again. This builds conditioning and reminds players that every throw is important.

    No-Glove Defense

    • Start the season's defensive practice by having players field gently rolled baseballs with their hands. Without a glove, players are reminded to be specific with their hand placement and to keep their eyes on the ball.

    Stick Ball

    • Purchase a quantity of plastic practice golf balls (balls with holes are most durable for this drill), and have players attempt to hit them with a broomstick or other thin piece of wood or metal.

    Simple Batting Practice

    • Baseball players need confidence, so keep early-season batting practice simple. Throw consistent, hittable fastballs, and avoid curves and sliders.

    Train For Baseball Speed

    • Endurance and speed are important, but early in the season, players should be working on their "baseball speed." Incorporate base running into batting practice or defensive drills so players get a feel for reading live balls.