Minors Practice Plans (Ages 8-10)

Sample 75-Minute Practice Plan

1. Dynamic Warm-up & Throwing Program (15 mins): Move beyond static stretching. Include jogging, carioca, high knees. Follow with a structured throwing program, starting close and moving farther apart to build arm strength safely.
2. Station Rotations (30 mins - 10 mins each):
   • Station 1: Pitching & Catching. Pitchers work from the mound on mechanics. Catchers work on blocking and receiving. This is a critical skill development station.
   • Station 2: Infield Situations. Work on fielding ground balls and making accurate throws to first. Introduce turning double plays from second base.
   • Station 3: Hitting. Live batting practice against a coach or a pitching machine. Focus on pitch selection and situational hitting (e.g., hitting behind the runner).
3. Team Defense & Situational Play (25 mins):

   This is where game IQ is built. Put the team in positions and run through scenarios:

   • Runner on first, less than two outs. Where does the defense make the play?
   • Bases loaded, one out. Discuss force plays vs. getting the lead runner.
   • Fly balls to the outfield. Teach outfielders to hit the cutoff man.
4. Wrap-up & Conditioning (5 mins): Bring the team in. Review the practice goals. Finish with a brief, team-based conditioning drill like relay races.