Game version
Base-path signals: a partner calls “go” or “stay” and you round the bases or hold, smoothly. Swap callers.
Delayed Steal Read
Steal on the catcher's throw back to the pitcher when the defense relaxes.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Take your normal step off after the pitch.
Core: To second. , with a full rest between. Aim for smooth turns.
- Ages
- 14 and up
- Time
- 12 min
- Players
- You and a partner
- Space
- Yard or field
- Bring
- Bases, catcher, partner
- Level · skill
- Advanced · Base Running
The steps
How it works
- Take your normal step off after the pitch.
- Watch the catcher return the ball.
- If the fielders are not watching, go on the throw back.
- Do 10 reads.
Coaching point
Read the relax, then go.
Safety: Warm up first and rest fully between runs. Stop if a muscle feels tight. On hot days drink water and rest in the shade, and stop if you feel dizzy or get a headache. If you hear thunder, go inside.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Pick a level: Less (to first), Core (to second), More (to third), with a full rest between. Aim for smooth turns.
Story
You are a base runner reading the coach’s signals.
My best
Beat your own count
, with a full rest between. Aim for smooth turns. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
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