Juniors Development Program
SMNLL Juniors Development Program
Juniors is one of the ways to keep playing after Majors — see what's after Majors for the full picture.
The Juniors program helps players acclimate to the full range of baseball rules and the larger field dimensions. This phase emphasizes foundational skills, personal development, and an introduction to key techniques for fielders, base runners, pitchers, and catchers. Players also begin to understand team tactics and strategy as they adjust to the increased complexity of the game.
Foundational Skills & Rules Acclimation
- Acclimation to new rules & the larger field: Understanding the shift in gameplay dynamics with more advanced field dimensions.
- Skill development for fielders & runners:
- Lead-offs and base stealing technique
- Proper base running mechanics
- Correct throwing technique, with a focus on finger placement across the seams
- Overhead fly ball and popup drills — learning to turn and go
- Ground ball fielding fundamentals
- Pitching fundamentals (intro to high school principles):
- Safe and proper throwing mechanics
- Holding runners and mastering pickoff moves
- Key release point principles for effective pitching
- Catcher fundamentals (intro to high school principles):
- Safe and proper receiving technique
- Sign-giving and communication with pitchers
- Roll drills, blocking, and glove mechanics
- Pop-up throw-down fundamentals for quick, accurate outs
Applying Skills in a Competitive Environment
Players build on the foundation developed in Fall Ball, with a greater focus on applying skills in competitive scenarios — emphasizing game situations, awareness, and the mental side of baseball.
- Competitive application: Applying skills in live-game settings.
- Character building & teamwork: Developing strong relationships, handling success and adversity, and learning to perform under pressure.
- Baseball IQ development: Thinking critically about the game and improving tactical awareness.
Advanced Skills & Competitive Play
As players continue in Juniors, they build on more advanced skills and competitive drills, refining technique and mastering more complex aspects of the game.
- Infield skills: Double plays, scoop-and-shuffle throws, and one-hopping ground balls.
- Outfield skills: Catching fly balls with momentum moving toward the infield and executing drop-and-turn cuts.
- Pitching mechanics: Introduction to off-speed pitching, and refining mechanics for better control and velocity.
- Catcher skills: Strengthening arm mechanics and improving blocking and receiving consistency.
Tailored Player Development
While this program outlines player development over two years, we know every player learns at their own pace and in their own way. Our coaching is individualized, so each player’s specific talents, strengths, and areas for improvement are addressed — creating an environment where players can thrive and reach their full potential.
Questions? Email us at smn@smnlittleleague.com.
