July 25 2024

6 Must-Know Youth Select Baseball Drills to Ace your Tryouts

Coach T Guides base running, baseball tips, fielding drills, hitting drills, NTX Select Baseball, pitching drills, Player Development, select baseball tryouts, youth baseball tryouts 0

Youth select baseball tryouts can be a nerve-wracking experience for both players and parents. The pressure to perform and secure a spot on the team can be intense. However, understanding and mastering the essential drills can make a significant difference. In this post, we’ll break down some key tryout drills that can help young players showcase their skills and impress coaches.

1. Warm-Up and Stretching

Before diving into any drills, a thorough warm-up and stretching session is crucial. This not only prepares the body for physical activity but also helps prevent injuries.

Dynamic Stretches: Incorporate high knees, butt kicks, and leg swings.
Throwing Warm-Up: Start with light tosses and gradually increase the distance.

2. Fielding Drills

Fielding is a fundamental aspect of baseball, and coaches pay close attention to a player’s ability to field ground balls, fly balls, and make accurate throws.

Ground Ball Drill: Coaches hit ground balls to players at various positions. Focus on footwork, glove positioning, and quick transfers.
Fly Ball Drill: Outfielders practice catching fly balls, emphasizing tracking the ball and proper catching technique.
Relay Throws: Players work on making accurate throws from the outfield to infielders, simulating game situations.

3. Hitting Drills

Hitting drills are designed to evaluate a player’s batting mechanics, power, and consistency.

Tee Drill: Players hit balls off a tee, focusing on mechanics and contact.
Soft Toss: Coaches toss balls underhand, and players hit them into a net or field, working on timing and hand-eye coordination.
Live Batting Practice: Players face live pitching, allowing coaches to assess their ability to hit in game-like conditions.

4. Pitching Drills

For aspiring pitchers, demonstrating control, velocity, and a variety of pitches is key.

Bullpen Session: Pitchers throw a set number of pitches, showcasing their fastball, curveball, changeup, and other pitches.
Fielding Practice for Pitchers: Pitchers practice fielding bunts and making quick, accurate throws to bases.

5. Base Running Drills

Speed, agility, and smart base running can set a player apart during tryouts.

Timed Sprints: Players run timed 60-yard dashes to showcase their speed.
Stealing Bases: Players practice taking leads, timing their jumps, and sliding into bases.
Running the Bases: Coaches assess a player’s ability to round the bases quickly and efficiently.

6. Situational Drills

These drills simulate game scenarios to evaluate a player’s decision-making and situational awareness.

Infield Situations: Players practice handling double plays, cut-offs, and other infield plays.
Outfield Situations: Outfielders work on backing up bases, hitting the cutoff man, and making accurate throws.
Game Simulation: A scrimmage game allows coaches to see players in action, making real-time decisions.

Tips for a Successful Tryout

Be Prepared: Arrive early, bring all necessary equipment, and be mentally ready to perform.
Stay Positive: Maintain a positive attitude, support teammates, and stay focused.
Listen to Coaches: Pay attention to instructions and demonstrate a willingness to learn.
Show Hustle: Always give 100%, whether you’re fielding, hitting, or running.

TLDR

Youth select baseball tryouts can be stressful, but focusing on key drills like fielding, hitting, pitching, and base running can help players stand out. Warm up properly, be prepared, stay positive, and listen to coaches to maximize your chances of making the team.