Improving Base Running in Baseball: A Linear-Curvilinear Perspective

Base running substantially contributes to offensive performance and team success. Therefore, improving players' linear and curvilinear base running abilities is critical to win more games and competitions. Performance science investigating the biomechanics of base running is scarce with minimal understanding how to efficiently run multiple bases. As a result, this article explored the following: (a) review the literature identifying the technical demands associated with curvilinear running and how these might differ from linear running, (b) identify in-field technology that may provide greater diagnostic insight into determinants of efficacy for various training methods to optimize base running ability, and (c) detail training methods currently used for curvilinear sprint training and suggest more effective options. A clear gap has emerged for baseball as existing evidence must be derived from studies on track and soccer athletes. Based on the current state of the literature, it is necessary to evaluate understanding of foot-ankle complex mechanics, muscular output by the lower limbs, and distinct functions of the inside and outside leg providing valuable frameworks for analyzing curvilinear running mechanics.