Little League Coaching Techniques

While Little League baseball helps introduce kids to competitive sports, your goal as a coach is to teach kids the basics of the game and let them participate. There are many aspects to Little League baseball that need attention. Through practice and game situations, coaches should help players learn the fundamentals of hitting, base running, fielding and pitching.

  1. Hitting

    • Little League baseball is sometimes a child's first experience hitting against live pitching. Earlier levels of the sport feature tees or pitching machines. Players should receive ample hitting opportunities in practice. Throw batting practice, allowing kids to get comfortable in the batter's box. You can also employ various drills to improve hand-eye coordination. Using small wiffle balls helps batters focus on hitting. Additionally, a tee is a valuable tool to help kids keep a level swing and practice hitting pitches all over the strike zone.

    Base Running

    • Once kids reach base, a whole new dimension of baseball comes into play. Little League does not allow runners to lead off a base, but there are other ways to gain an edge. Players can steal as soon as the ball crosses home plate. Teach them to look for pitches in the dirt and prepare them to run. Little League is also a great place to teach kids about following coaches' instructions. Base runners need to be attentive toward the game and the third base coach who will instruct the player on when to run. Feet-first sliding should also be taught at the Little League level.

    Fielding

    • In Little League, it is appropriate to let every player on the team try every position. This prepares them for each spot and allows you to get a good feeling about who performs best at each position. Dedicate practice time to infield/outfield practice. Hit ground balls to infielders, teaching them to stay in front of the ball and make accurate throws. Hit fly balls to outfielders, helping them react to different swings and throw to the proper base.

    Pitching

    • In Little League, not everyone can pitch, but everyone should be given a chance. Before the season begins, take each kid to the mound and let him throw to a catcher. You will typically find three to five players who will pitch for your team. Make sure your pitchers get time to throw in practice so you can monitor their deliveries. In games, it is always a nice gesture to give kids who may not be the best pitchers a chance to throw to a batter if the situation presents itself.

    Game Management

    • Rules are in place to limit the wear on a Little League pitcher's arm.

      As a coach, you must be aware of the many rules of Little League. In many leagues, every player must play at least three innings and receive one at-bat. Pitchers also have pitch counts that they cannot exceed. Additionally, use the game to go over more fundamentals of baseball. Creating signs for different plays, such as bunting, helps kids stay aware during different situations.