High school
Baserunning
All positions
Intermediate
Delayed Steal Like a Pro Timing Drill
Timing and read drill that teaches the delayed steal technique, using the catcher’s throw or lack of throw as the primary cue.
- Equipment:
- Glove
- Duration:
- About 8 min
- Setting:
- Outdoor
- Players:
- Small group
Coaching notes
Runner takes a normal secondary lead, reads the catcher’s actions after the pitch, and breaks for the next base only when the opportunity appears, creating confusion and free bases.
Objectives
Teach the delayed-steal timing, improve reads on the catcher, and create scoring opportunities without pure speed.
Coaching cues
Normal secondary; freeze and read the catcher; break only when the throw is committed or the opportunity is clear; stay aggressive but under control.
Common errors
Leaving too early; failing to freeze and read; poor secondary lead; telegraphing the intention.
Steps
- 1. Primary and secondary lead
- 2. Pitch is thrown
- 3. Read the catcher
- 4. Break or hold based on the read
Source:
Coach RAC
