"You Can't Steal Second Base and Keep Your Foot on First" is the title of my book (written with my son Brian, 2nd Baseman for the Baltimore Orioles) and we also have a new teaching DVD about Base Stealing which shows many of the techniques developed by Brian during his career. Brian was small and a very average amateur player until he was 19 years old. Base stealing kept him enjoying baseball, gave him some confidence, and helped him help his team until he became stronger and improved his other skills.
Brian grew up playing in the backyard with his parents and friends. He played the game of Pickle most days, which helped his base stealing instincts. "Backyard Baseball is a Passionate, Instinctive, Fun Game" and I post these words in the home dugout of the Cotuit Kettleers in the Cape Cod League.
Base Stealing will bring consistency to a baseball offense regardless of team speed. I have 25 new players in Cotuit, Ma. each summer. We begin base stealing practice the first day and work on this aspect of the game almost every day. The Kettleers have won the Cape Cod League Championship 2 of the past 4 seasons including August 2013. Base stealing is the key element that brings that consistency and keeps constant pressure on the opposing team.
Definition of Base Stealing: A runner(s) trying to take advantage of the defensive team thru good technique and speed going in a straight line to advance a base as the ball is thrown from the pitcher to the catcher.
Confidence: The base stealer(s) must feel they have control of the game even though the pitcher is initially in control of the baseball.
Comfort: The base stealer must be as comfortable when off the base preparing to steal as they are when just standing on the base.
