Home Drills for First Basemen: How Parents Can Help Their Player Shine at First Base
First base may seem simple—catch the ball, get the out—but it’s one of the most important and active positions on the field. A good first baseman can save infielders from throwing errors, keep innings alive, and even swing momentum with one great stretch or scoop.
The good news? You don’t need a field or a full team to help your young player get better. With a glove, a ball, and a little space, you can practice key first base skills right at home.
🧤 Why First Base Skills Matter
At the 10U and 12U levels, many throws from teammates are off-target. A solid first baseman learns to:
- Catch tough throws
- Stretch off the bag properly
- Stay safe around baserunners
- Field bunts or short grounders
- Communicate on pop flies
Helping your player improve at home boosts their confidence—and helps the entire infield succeed.
🏡 Easy At-Home First Base Drills (Parent & Player Edition)
You don’t need fancy equipment—just a glove, a ball, and a bit of room in the yard, driveway, or even a hallway.
1. Target Throws Drill
Goal: Improve catching accuracy from different angles and throws.
How to do it:
- You (the parent) toss or throw balls from different directions—some chest-high, some low, some wide.
- Mix in short hops, one-hoppers, and slightly off-target throws.
- Your player should focus on footwork, glove positioning, and keeping one foot on the “bag” (use a base, cone, or towel as a marker).
Pro Tip: Teach them to “work through the ball” on short hops—glove forward, soft hands.
2. Footwork & Stretch Drill
Goal: Teach proper foot placement and how to stretch safely to get the out.
How to do it:
- Set a base down (or use a mat/cone).
- Practice receiving throws by stepping toward the ball, not just straight out.
- Emphasize stretching only after the ball is on the way—don’t stretch too early.
Why it matters: Learning to step toward the throw (left, right, or forward) helps them get more outs and avoid over-stretching injuries.
3. Scoop Drill
Goal: Improve confidence in picking low or bounced throws.
How to do it:
- Toss or roll grounders and short hops at your player’s glove side and middle.
- Use tennis balls for beginners or real baseballs once they’re ready.
- Focus on keeping the glove low, fingers down, and using soft hands.
Variation: Use a wall or garage door to bounce the ball slightly and make them react quickly.
4. Pop Fly Communication Drill
Goal: Practice calling for and catching high throws or pop-ups in foul territory.
How to do it:
- Toss light pop-ups high into the air.
- Teach your player to:
- Call loudly: “I got it!”
- Keep the glove above their eyes
- Use two hands if possible
- Track the ball with their feet and body, not just their glove
Extra Tip: Add a second family member to simulate another fielder and practice communication.
5. Quick Toss Foot Drill
Goal: Train quick foot replacement and glove readiness for double plays.
How to do it:
- Have your player stand on a base.
- Toss a ball to their chest.
- As they catch it, they should “pop off” the bag and turn quickly to simulate a throw to second.
It’s great for teaching them how to stay light on their feet and ready for follow-up plays.
🧢 Parent Tips
- Keep it short: 15–20 focused minutes is better than an hour of frustration.
- Make it fun: Add challenges (“how many scoops in a row?”) or play “game scenarios.”
- Be encouraging: First base can be high-pressure. Praise effort and progress.
- Rotate reps: If your player usually pitches or plays shortstop, teach them first base basics too—it’s a great position to learn.
Final Word
A great first baseman helps the whole team look better. With just a few reps at home each week, your player can improve their glove work, footwork, and fielding confidence dramatically. Plus, it’s a great chance for some quality time between parent and player.
So grab your glove, step outside, and turn your yard into a first base training zone!