First-to-Third Reads

Dugout Master ✓ Official Dugout Master drill

Players practice reading the ball to the outfield and making aggressive but intelligent decisions when advancing from first to third.

Base Running⏱ 12 min👥 4-16 players

Setup

Runners line up at first base with helmets on. Put a coach in the third-base coaching box and outfielders (or coaches) in the outfield to field the batted ball. Coach hits or throws balls to different outfield spots from the plate.

Execution

  1. Runner takes a normal lead at first base.
  2. Coach hits a ball to right, right-center, or left field; the runner reads it off the bat as they break.
  3. Runner picks up the third-base coach as they approach second and either commits or holds.
  4. Runner rounds second hard, hits the inside corner of the bag, and either goes or breaks down.
  5. Coach freezes the play and asks the runner what they saw; run six reps each with varied hits.

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