Tips for executing a successful rundown

In my last blog post I talked about the value of practicing rundowns, and all the good it can do. But I didn’t get into the details of how to execute them successfully from a defensive point of view. So guess what we’re going over today? Step one is to understand what makes for a […]

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If you watch a rundown where the runner escapes, the mistake usually happens on the first throw or lack thereof. Most times the reason comes from confusion.

Here is how I have the girls practice rundowns after you've worked on all the mechanics of a rundown. It takes 3 players and a runner.

Place the #1 & #2 defenders at each base.
The 3rd defender is in the middle of the bases about 30' from the baseline. The defenders form a triangle.
Place the runner in the middle of the bases facing defender #3.

The 3rd defender stands with their back facing the runner.

Throw the ball to the 3rd defender firmly from about 30' away. The runner can not move until the #3 defender has caught the ball. Once the ball is caught the runner must now make a decision to go one way or the other. The defender must turn around, find the runner and make a throw into the rundown. They follow their throw. Be sure the runner knows they are there to try and make the defense make throws. Make sure the runner does not cheat and move early.

The rest of the usual dart throws, making a throwing lane and pinching are now enabled with the execution of the rundown.

When you watch a rundown develop in a game it usually starts with a throw coming from somewhere to a fielder close to the developing rundown. This exercise helps learn how to identify the situation and make a correct decision quickly while acting on it with confidence.