Youth Baseball Defensive Playbook: Alignments, 1st & 3rd Situations, and Bunt Coverages

Play Smart. Stay Ready. Shut It Down.

Give your team the defensive edge with this specialized playbook designed for youth baseball players ages 9–14. Focused on three key areas—defensive alignments, 1st & 3rd situations, and bunt coverages—this resource helps coaches teach players how to anticipate, communicate, and execute in pressure moments.

Inside, you’ll find:

• Defensive Alignments – Learn how to position your infield and outfield based on batter tendencies, game situations, and baserunner threats.

• 1st & 3rd Defenses – Be prepared with multiple options to control aggressive baserunners and prevent easy runs.

• Bunt Coverages – Assign clear responsibilities for pitchers, infielders, and catchers to defend against bunts with confidence and precision.

Each section includes diagrams, clear player assignments, and coaching cues that make it easy to teach and easy for players to remember. Whether you're coaching a weekend rec team or a high-level youth squad, this playbook helps turn young athletes into smart, reliable defenders.

Preparation creates confidence—and confident teams win.