How to Be a Good First Base Coach

A good first base coach is something that every baseball team needs. While a first base coach doesn't make the same decisions as a third base coach, the first base coach still instructs both players and the manager. A first base coach can even create runs for his team by knowing when to execute certain plays. Here is how to be a good first base coach.

Instructions

    • 1

      Learn about opposing pitchers and catchers. You should know how good of a pick-off move the opposing pitchers have and how good of an arm the opposing catcher has. This will help you know if your players should attempt to steal second during a game and when they should do so. It is the duty of a first base coach to ensure that his players don't get picked off during the game.

    • 2

      Know the signs your team will use during the game and be able to execute them clearly. Just like a third base coach, a first base coach needs to be able to communicate with a hitter by using body signals. You should be able to put on a sacrifice bunt effectively without saying a single word to the batter.

    • 3

      Carefully watch the interaction between the opposing pitcher and catcher throughout the game. A first base coach should be able to pick up things such as if a catcher is having difficulty handling a certain pitch or if the pitcher looks uneasy when men are on base. This information can be vital when it comes to advancing your base runners into scoring position.

    • 4

      Talk to your players about the game when they reach first base. Ask your players about the opposing pitcher and anything they've noticed about him. Let your base runners know about anything you've noticed as well. Chances are that you've seen things during the game that your players haven't.

    • 5

      Speak with the manager in-between innings about anything you've noticed during the game. The manager will be the person to put on any plays such as a hit and run. However, since you're actually on the field, you have had a better view of the action during the game. Let the manager know about situations that have come up, such as a possibility for a squeeze play or when base runners should try to take a base.