Rundown execution

Setup

1. Run rundowns between third and home (as in the diagram), then between first and second and between second and third, so every infielder gets reps.
2. Two lines of fielders: one at each base. A pitcher or spare fielder backs up home and another backs up third.
3. Runners in batting helmets start halfway between the bases. A catcher in full gear holds the ball at home.
4. Runners must stay on their feet and not slide head-first during rundowns.

How it runs

1. The coach says 'Go'. The runner breaks for home and the catcher runs hard straight at the runner, ball held up and ready to throw.
2. The runner turns back towards third. The catcher keeps chasing at full speed to drive the runner back to the base they came from.
3. When the runner is about three or four strides from the third baser, the third baser steps forward and calls 'Now!'. The catcher throws once, firmly, to the third baser's glove side of the base line.
4. The third baser catches it and runs at the runner to make the tag. The catcher peels off the base line straight after the throw.
5. Fielders follow their throw to the back of the line at the other base. Rotate runners every two reps; play four or five minutes between each pair of bases.

Coaching points

• The goal is an out with one throw, two at most. Every extra throw is a chance for a mistake.
• Run the runner back towards the base they came from, so if something goes wrong they haven't gained a base.
• Ball holder: sprint at the runner with the ball up by the ear, not hidden in the glove, so the receiver can see it. No fake throws; they fool teammates more than runners.
• Receiver: set up a step in front of the base on the inside of the line, give a target and call 'Now!' early enough that the runner can't stop and turn.
• Throw to one side of the runner so it never hits them, and the receiver steps towards the ball as it is thrown.
• Tag with the ball held in the glove and the bare hand covering it. Tag firmly and low; don't swing at the runner.
• Fielders without the ball step out of the base line straight away. Contact with a runner while not holding or fielding the ball is obstruction and the runner is awarded a base.

Common mistakes

• Jogging at the runner, so the runner can stop and wait for a throw.
• Faking throws and confusing the receiver.
• Throwing too late, when the runner is right on top of the receiver.
• Thrower staying in the base line after the throw and getting run into (obstruction).
• Receiver standing on the base instead of stepping up to meet the runner.