This lesson series is show how good base running helps your team score more runs. But not at any cost. Most youth leagues up through the high school level have a "slide or avoid" rule on the books, though we question whether it's always enforced absolutely — it should be.

SLIDE OR AVOID RULE

If you're a runner heading toward the plate you have a responsibility to slide in or go around (avoid) the catcher. If you fail to do one or the other (in the umpire's opinion) you're out.

Protecting Yourself

The biggest mistake in judgment which many runners make is not expecting the ball to be there - not expecting a close play - so they don't assume they need to slide. Always head home intending to slide, unless the on-deck batter (who should be spotting for you) indicates you can stay up. And even then, trust your own judgment over his or anyone's. (Remember: the best catchers will not look like there's going to be a play - hoping to surprise you.)

The biggest misunderstanding that coaches and fans make is in thinking the rule is "slide and avoid".

It's not "and", it's "or".

If you slide you can go straight in. If you dance out of the way (avoid), then you don't also have to slide — just don't make contact.

So that's the rule. Now let's take it one step farther...


Protecting the Catcher

The key phrase used above was "not at any cost". The slide-or-avoid rule is not just for you, the runner. We'd also like you to look out for their catcher. What could go wrong, after all, he's wearing all that protective gear?

Some inexperienced catchers may set up to receive the throw with their left foot across the line (toes pointing to the backstop). The risk here is that a slide collision with the lower leg will pop the knee. (Padding protects bones, but not joints.)

Catchers should be taught to be on the line with their toes pointing to 3rd base. That way, any collision bends the knee in the direction it's meant to bend.  - the leg across the line risk. But many don't know this, so please, don't slide into the side of an unprotected knee. Your eyes should be on the plate area as your running - not looking for the throw. So keep those eyes on the plate and catcher, and judge your actions by his position.