A Base Hit Turn is the action taken by a baserunner while rounding first after a base hit.  The ball has reached the outfield safely, which means the baserunning is guaranteed a single… and potentially more.  A Base Hit Turn should be aggressive and big, putting pressure on the defense to cleanly field the ball and make an accurate throw back to the infield.

EXECUTION – DC uses small disc cones to map out the curving route of a base hit turn.  Baserunners are taught to “kick out” in what is often referred to as a banana curve to most efficiently round first base and direct the running angle towards second.  Place cones down to guide this path, starting as early as the midpoint (50%) of the first base line.  Place two additional cones on the ground (25% of the way towards second base) that can serve as visual goals for an aggressive distance covered on the turn itself.  Run hard and put the pressure on the defense.

DC KEYS

1. Inside Corner, Either Foot – Hit the inside corner of the bag, almost leaning into the turn towards second base.  Use either foot, trying NOT to break stride.
2. Penguin Stance – Coach can stand on top of the first base bag, with feet exposing only the inside corner of the base.  That coach can also protect against collisions.
3. Fence-Line Cone – Place a cone near the fence, directly in line with the cones marking an aggressive turn distance.  Athletes can return to the line by staying around that fence line cone.  This stops athletes from crossing into one another and avoiding collisions (especially around the base).

EQUIPMENT LIST