Tips for Stealing Bases in Fastpitch Softball

To review, here are the key aspects of this technique for stealing bases in softball:

1. The runner keeps one foot on the front of the base and one foot behind the base.
2. The front foot should be towards the outside edge of the bag to prevent the runner from tripping on the bag on the first step.
3. The runner should be leaning forward to get a great first step.
4. If the left foot is on the front of the bag, the right arm should be forward (and vice versa). This ensures that the player is in proper stride on the first step.
5. The runner will take her first step when she sees the back foot (drive foot) of the pitcher make her first movement.

NOTE: If you are not comfortable with having players use the pitchers drive foot for timing, then they should try to time the arm circle instead.  Here is a short video that touches on using the arm circle for timing as an alternative.

If you go to the 1:30 mark of the video, you will hear Morgan mention timing the pitcher. 

If you have some players with decent speed, base stealing is a great way to jump-start your offense. 

We also have a post with some baserunning drills that can help as well!

In conclusion, it does take practice to teach your players how to get a great jump off of the pitcher. So take the time to practice it this season to maximize your run production!

Doing so will increase your ability to score more runs!

(By Tim Covey, Founder of Covey Sports)

Have questions or comments? Leave them in the comments section below!