The Basics: Fundamental Baseball and Softball Skill Development Series

Being a part of the Little League® program for many families is something that has been passed down through the generations, but for some parents and coaches, entering into the Little League program may be a brand new experience. To help those parents and coaches who may be new to the program, or even to the game of baseball and softball, Little League International has launched a new program called “The Basics.” The Basics shares the very fundamentals of the game, from learning how to run the bases and throw a ball to understanding the basic language of the Little League program.


The Basics: Hitting

The basics of hitting involves a bat, batter’s helmet, the batter’s box, and a ball. The ability to hit the ball is accomplished by executing and repeating specific steps. Play this video to view the elements and physical activity required to hit a ball.


The Basics: Catching

The basics of catching involves a fielding glove and a ball. The ability to catch the ball is accomplished by executing and repeating specific steps. Play this video to view the elements and physical activity required to catch a ball.


The Basics: Throwing

The basics of throwing involves gripping and releasing a ball from the hand. The ability to throw the ball is accomplished by executing and repeating specific steps. Play this video to view the physical elements and physical activity required to throw a ball.


The Basics: Fielding a Ground Ball

The basics of fielding a ball that is rolling along the ground involves a fielding glove and a ball. The ability to field a ground ball is accomplished by executing and repeating specific steps. Play this video to view the elements and physical activity required to field a ball.


The Basics: Baserunning

The basics of running to the bases on a baseball or softball field involve a circuit of starting at home plate and advancing clock-wise to first, second, and third bases, before turning to touch home plate . The ability to run the bases is accomplished by executing and repeating specific steps. Play this video to view the elements and physical activity required to run the bases.