Tag Plays is an infield drill for athletes learning how to receive a throw and apply a tag.  Dugout Captain recommends programming this drill into your practice plans when put-outs are becoming a realistic priority.  For the most effective learning experience, run during Station Instruction at a first practice… and follow by offering during Quick Defense at a second practice.  This philosophy is followed in DC Practice Plan templates for Catcher Receiving, Sliding Fundamentals, etc.

More difficult to think the game, a player MUST be able to play the game.  This is the easy part. 😉

DISCUSSION – Start this drill with each athlete at an individual cone for discussion.  First, explain and show the proper execution of a slap tag: straddle, slap tag, show.  Involve a brief explanation of the mental side of this play – WHEN a tag play is utilized.  

REPETITION – Athletes line up behind a single cone.  Place a throw-down base 10-feet away from the cone.  And a second cone, positioned 10-feet on the opposite side of the base.  On a verbal, first athlete sprints to the bag and prepares to receive a throw:

• Straddle – Position feet so that they are on either side of the base. 
• Slap Tag – Catch the baseball and move from athlete’s left to right along the ground (in front of the base).
• Show – “Sell” the putout but showing the glove to the umpire (ball is in glove).

DC KEYS

1. Why Straddle? – Ensure a sliding athlete goes between your legs rather than into a foot or shin – ouch.
2. Tag Front of Based – Must tag the sliding runner before he reaches the base.  Therefore, tag can’t be on top of the base.
3. Teach, then Reinforce – Drill Tag Plays during Drills / Station Instruction first.  Then, offer Tag Plays during Quick Defense at the next practice.

CLOSING –  Use the power of live Baseball (TV or in person).  Challenge your athletes to watch a ballgame and see the Tag Play in action.

EQUIPMENT LIST