Tips for T-Ball

T-ball offers an opportunity for youngsters to get in on the ground floor of baseball. Here they learn the basics of the game from the everyday player's point of view (pitching comes later), learning how to swing the bat, field and throw the ball, and run the bases.

  1. Batting

    • Beginning batters need to find a bat of the proper size. The player should grip the bat at the end of the handle, lifting it with one arm fully extended and straight out from the body. If the batter can't hold it level with the ground for three seconds without wobbling or shaking, he needs a lighter bat. T-ballers tend to ignore those around them when swinging the bat. At the outset of training, set a rule that no player is to pick up a bat unless instructed to do so by a coach. Also, remind players never to approach another player who is holding a bat.

    Throwing

    • Coachtips.com offers a whimsical rhyme to help players remember the proper throwing motion. Have them recite "nose, toes and throws" as they practice throwing. "Nose" indicates looking at the target before throwing. "Toes" is for moving toward the target with the glove-side foot, and "throws" is for throwing the ball. Players should learn to throw with their glove-side shoulder facing the target. This makes them turn their shoulders as they throw. To develop accuracy, place a five-gallon bucket on the ground with the open end facing the player and have them throw into the bucket, using the rhyming instructions.

    Fielding

    • A gloves-off drill helps players develop fielding skills. Have players place the little fingers of each hand side by side and form a cup with the hands. Have them bend their knees to get their hands near the ground while keeping the fingers together. Have them keep their backs straight. Starting about 10 yards away, roll the ball to them gently so they will have a good chance of stopping it and experience success.

    Running

    • Beginning players probably have the least knowledge about running bases. Drill them in running from home plate to first and then to further bases, including home. Coachtips.com suggests stationing coaches at first and third to get players accustomed to having someone tell them where to stop running and when to run again.