A pickoff play teaches communication and timing. The pitcher and first baseman have to move in sync, and the runner has to decide whether to dive back or run.

Equipment needed: 6 baseballs, two bases, cones for the box around first base.

Setup: Set up a diamond at 60 feet per side. You’re the pitcher. One kid is the first baseman. One is a runner. One is on deck. A coach or older player is the catcher.

How to run it:

  1. Runner takes a lead off first (about 8 feet).
  2. Pitcher and first baseman look at each other. Count down silently: three, two, one.
  3. On one, the pitcher spins and throws to first. The first baseman runs to the bag with their glove up.
  4. The runner decides: dive back or run to second.
  5. If the first baseman catches it, they make the tag. If they miss, they back up the catcher.
  6. Do 5 reps. Rotate runner, first baseman, pitcher.

What to look for: Timing and communication. If the pitcher throws too early or too late, the play fails. If the first baseman doesn’t sprint, they won’t be there to catch it.

Variation: For younger kids, use a whip (faster) instead of a spin throw. For older kids, add a second pickoff throw (pitcher to shortstop covering second) so kids learn to recognize the play and adjust.