T-ball is often a young player’s introduction to baseball and softball. As a t-ball coach, you have the important job of teaching the fundamental skills that will allow your players to enjoy and succeed in the game. One of the key defensive positions in t-ball is second base. Though it may seem basic, there are several key skills that players need to learn to play second base effectively. With the right approach and plenty of encouragement, you can help your second baseman become a strong contributor to the team defense.
The most important skills for a second baseman to learn are catching thrown balls, making accurate throws to first base, and being aware of game situations.
Positioning
One of the first things to teach your second baseman is where to stand. Second basemen should set up just behind and to the right of second base, facing home plate. Some t-ball leagues place cones on the field indicating where each position should stand before each pitch. Make sure your players understand where the second base cone is located and that they need to hustle to get in position before each play.
Young infielders may tend to stand too close to second base, reducing their range. Encourage them to take a few steps back into the outfield grass so they have room to react to sharply hit balls. Remind them to get into an athletic stance with knees bent and glove out in front of their body. This ready position allows them to field grounders and pop flies more effectively.
Catching Thrown Balls
Catching throws from teammates is one of the primary responsibilities of the second baseman. Start by having players play catch to get used to catching the ball with two hands and “alligator arms” – hands out in front with fingers down like alligator jaws ready to snap the ball out of the air.
During games, second basemen will need to catch throws from the shortstop and other infielders covering second for force plays. Stress catching the ball out in front of the body with hands together, rather than trapping it against the chest. This helps the second baseman make a quicker, smoother transition to making the throw to first base for the double play.
Throwing to First Base
Perhaps the most important skill for the second baseman is making an accurate throw to first base. After catching the ball, they should step towards first base and make the throw across their body in one smooth motion. The throw should be aimed below the first baseman’s reach.
Teaching proper throwing mechanics is crucial – stepping with the opposite foot, pointing the shoulder, following through to the target. Have players practice throws from their second base position to get the right feeling of throwing across the diamond. Emphasize making strong, accurate throws while maintaining proper form.
Game Situations and Decision Making
In addition to physical skills, second basemen need to learn the basics of making smart baseball plays. Go over common game situations and what they should do:
- With a runner on first, be prepared to cover second base on a throw from the catcher if the runner tries to steal. Catch the ball and make the tag.
- On a ground ball with runners on first and second, try to get the out at second base before throwing to first for the double play. Look the lead runner back to second if needed before throwing.
- On a popup near second base, call for the ball and try to make the catch. Let the shortstop take charge on pop flies in the gap between bases.
- If a ground ball gets past the second baseman into right field, yell “I’ve got second!” and cover the base in case of an overthrow.
Remind second basemen to constantly think ahead about possible plays and be vocal in communicating with teammates. With experience, they will gain awareness and make smarter decisions.
Fielding Ground Balls
One of the main jobs of the second baseman is fielding ground balls hit into the area between first and second base, also called the “hole.” Players should use two hands and get their gloves down quickly when fielding grounders. Emphasize moving in front of the ball and not waiting for it.
Have players take grounds balls at second base during practice to get used to fielding different hops. Hit some grounders harder to their left or right to improve range. While fundamentals are still developing, you may want to hit more balls directly at the player to build confidence. Stress bending knees and keeping the ball out in front.
Pop Flies
While second basemen will field more ground balls than pop flies, they still need to practice catching fly balls. On pop ups near second base, players should call for the ball loudly and keep their eyes on the ball. Have them work on getting in position under fly balls and using two hands to catch the ball above their shoulders.
To create some fun practice, you can hit easy pop ups to the second baseman and call out a situation: “Runner on first, one out!” This introduces game strategy and gets them thinking about forcing the runner at second after catching the fly ball.
Defending Against Base Stealers
T-ball players are stationed at their positions, so true base stealing doesn’t occur. However, later levels of baseball and softball will require the second baseman to defend against runners attempting to swipe second base. This involves catching a throw from the catcher and applying the tag.
You can simulate this play by having a player take a lead and run toward second on the coach’s signal. Instruct the second baseman to move up toward the base and catch the soft toss from the coach, keeping a foot on the base. They apply the tag to the runner anywhere before the base. Repeat this drill to get players comfortable with catching and tagging.
Building Confidence
Second base is a busy position where the ball is hit often. Don’t worry about perfection. Offer plenty of encouragement and celebrate good plays to keep players engaged. Boost their confidence by starting with easier drills and extra batting practice. Have them play different infield spots at times to break up the action. Keep practices positive and fun to build skills and excitement about playing second base.
Teaching Proper Footwork
Footwork is an important yet often overlooked fundamental for infielders. As the coach, spend time teaching proper footwork for fielding different kinds of balls at second base.
On a routine ground ball, the second baseman should use the “Carioca” footwork – moving the left foot across and in front of the right foot when moving laterally to the left, and vice versa when moving right. This keeps their feet staggered and shoulders square to the ball through the fielding motion.
Players should call for the ball loudly so teammates know they are taking charge. Charge the grounder and field out in front whenever possible. Stress soft hands – don’t stab at the ball. Use two hands and watch it go into the glove.
On balls to the backhand side, teach your player to pivot on the foot furthest from the ball while bringing their glove across their body to make the play. Again, stagger the feet instead of stepping straight back with both feet.
For slow rollers, instruct your second baseman to charge aggressively, field the ball out in front and finish in a tall stance ready to make the throw. Slower grounders require them to charge through the ball, staying under control.
Flyballs are different – second basemen will shuffle or crossover step to move back under pop ups or line drives, keeping their eyes on the ball. On looping flyballs to the outfield, teach backing up appropriately in case the ball drops. Proper footwork in all directions helps second basemen of all levels field cleanly.
Turning Double Plays
The double play is one of the most exciting and valuable plays in baseball. While turned less frequently in t-ball, it’s good to introduce the basics of turning two at second base. This skill involves quickly getting the force out at second before making an accurate throw to first for the double play.
After catching the throw from the shortstop or another infielder covering second, the second baseman must keep a foot planted on the bag. Pivot toward first base and make a strong sidearm throw across the diamond in one smooth motion. The throw should be lower to arrive before the runner gets to first base.
During practices, roll ground balls to an infielder and have another lead off second, running on contact. The fielder throws to the second baseman at the base, and the player makes the pivot throw to first. Make the drill game-like by using base runners and calling outs.
Emphasize to the second baseman that on this play their priority is recording the force out before attempting the throw to first. The out at second is most important. With repetition, young players can successfully turn routine double plays and feel the excitement of starting two outs with one play.
Communication and Teamwork
Second basemen don’t work alone – they must communicate with teammates to succeed. Players at second base need to let others know when they are fielding balls in their area by calling “I’ve got it!” This avoids collisions or having the ball drop between players.
After catching a ball, second basemen should make throw choices clear by yelling “Back!” or “First base!” Pointing or gesturing also helps. Make sure your second baseman knows to defer to the shortstop on pop flies between the bases. Teach them to call out situations like “Runner on second!” so other fielders are alert.
Stress the importance of hustling to back up first base on balls hit to the right side. Second basemen should be ready as a relay option on balls to outfielders and provide support on rundown plays between bases. Praise your player for backing up teammates and making good throw decisions. Keep drilling communication on calling balls and making throw choices. Teamwork and awareness will improve through repetition.
Drills and Exercises
Here are some helpful drills and exercises to build second base skills:
- Rapid-fire ground balls – one after another to work on fielding technique and footwork. Mix up balls to backhand and forehand.
- Cone zig-zag drill – Set up a series of cones. Player shuffles side to side and back pedaling to build agility.
- Quick hands soft toss – Work on reacting quickly with soft throws rapid fire from 10 feet away.
- Blind catches – Coach rolls balls unpredictably and player reacts quickly without early cues. Strengthens field awareness.
- Backhand flip drill – Roll grounders behind player and have them backhand flip to a coach standing near second base.
- Double play turns – Roll grounders to an infielder who throws to second baseman to work on pivots.
- Repetitions throwing to first – Focus on mechanics, accuracy and footwork. Can use a kneel-down throw as well.
Varying these drills keeps practices lively and skills sharp. Combine activities with water breaks and fun games to help players stay engaged while building second base fundamentals.
Summary
Second base is a fun spot for young players new to the game. Keep instruction simple and focus on fundamental skills – catching, throwing, positioning, communication. With patience and repetition, your second basemen will gain confidence and ability. Remember to give positive feedback and encourage hustle and teamwork. Learning strong fundamentals now will pay off as players continue in baseball and softball. The second baseman is a key player for turning double plays and making things happen on defense. Teaching proper skills and attitude at this early stage sets up future success.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important skills for a second baseman?
The key skills are catching throws from teammates, making accurate throws to first base, positioning properly based on game situations, and fielding ground balls cleanly. Mastering these fundamentals will lead to defensive success.
How close to second base should the second baseman stand?
They should set up just behind and to the right of second base, a few steps into the outfield grass. This deeper positioning allows greater range for fielding balls hit near the base.
What grip and mechanics should be used for throwing to first base?
A four-seam grip allows better accuracy. Players should step toward first base, point their shoulder at the target, follow through and release the ball at ear level for a strong throw across the diamond.
What should the second baseman do when fielding a ground ball with runners on first and second?
Try to get the force out at second base before throwing to first to complete the double play. Look the lead runner back to second base if needed before throwing to first.
How can I boost the confidence of my second baseman?
Use positive reinforcement when they make good plays. Break down skills into small drills. Start with manageable challenges and increase difficulty gradually. Play up their strengths and rotate positions sometimes.
