Last Updated on: 29th May 2025, 04:40 pm
Jill Lamontagne—Cross-Disciplinary Educator and Service-Learning Trailblazer—pairs a background in health education with hands-on experience coaching youth softball in Kennebunk, Maine. As Assistant Supervisor of Adult Case Management at Waypoint, she turns complex regulations into clear, actionable guidance—a skill she brings to the diamond when teaching young athletes the fundamentals of safe, smart play. Trusted by parents and players alike, Jill blends empathy, accountability, and evidence-based instruction to keep budding ballplayers healthy while they build confidence on the base paths.
Baseball and Softball: A Legacy of Learning
For nearly two centuries, baseball has been affectionately referred to as America’s pastime. The sport remains incredibly popular, with 17.3 million participants in 2024, up from 16.7 million the year prior. This includes approximately 2 million boys and girls aged 4 to 16 participating in Little League baseball, along with an additional 360,000 softball players.
Volunteer Little League coaches play a critical role in teaching these young athletes the fundamentals of the game—including essential rules governing base running.
Understanding Base Running Rules
A batter becomes a baserunner once they reach first base via a walk, a hit, or an error. Another lesser-known but important scenario is the uncaught third strike rule, which applies when:
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First base is unoccupied, or
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There are two outs in the inning.
If the catcher fails to catch the third strike, the batter becomes a runner and must reach first base before being thrown out. This is sometimes referred to as “stealing first base,” but technically, it does not count as a steal.
The Rules of Stealing in Little League
Little League players can steal second and third base, as well as home plate, but under specific conditions:
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Baserunners cannot leave their base when the pitcher is in contact with the pitcher’s plate and the catcher is set in the box.
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Leads (or “leading off”) are not allowed in Little League.
Softball-Specific Rule: The Base Running Circle
For softball players, the base running circle rule applies:
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If the pitcher is standing within the 8-foot radius circle around the plate and is not actively making a play, runners must stay on base or attempt a steal once the pitch is delivered.
Sliding, Hurdling, and Avoiding Tags
A common misconception is that players are required to slide into home plate. In reality:
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Sliding is only required if it’s necessary to avoid colliding with a fielder who is in possession of the ball.
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Sliding into first base is allowed, especially during a play from an uncaught third strike.
Aside from sliding, jumping or hurdling over a fielder attempting to tag a runner is legal, as long as it’s done safely.
Live Ball Awareness and Outs
Coaches must teach players the risks of live ball situations:
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A runner is out if they touch a fair batted ball before it is played by a fielder.
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If a thrown ball hits a runner, they are only out if the contact was intentional, as judged by the umpire.
Conclusion
From base running strategy to rule enforcement, Jill Lamontagne emphasizes a balance of knowledge, sportsmanship, and safety in her coaching. With both professional experience and a passion for youth development, she continues to shape confident, capable athletes who understand not just how to play—but how to play smart.
