Generate more runs by putting pressure on the defense

Want to score more runs? Train your runners to pressure all lateral movement by the defense. For this to work, runners and coaches should be looking for lateral movement away from the base that is two bases ahead of the runner. If the defense makes a lateral movement, the runner should go.

That's because, 99 out of 100 times, an infielder won't be able to make the play when moving laterally. Why? After the defender moves away from the base, scoops up the ball, turns her body, and resets her feet, she won't have sufficient arm strength to get the throw to the base in time.

For example, if a runner on first sees the third baseman move laterally away from the base on a ball hit to left field, the runner should sprint to third because odds are she'll make it without getting out.

Hear more on training your runners to look for this defensive read in this video featuring Coach Randy Schneider.