Why Controlled Scrimmages Are One of the Most Powerful Development Tools in Preseason

As teams move from winter training back onto the field, many coaches feel pressure to immediately play full games. But early preseason should look more like spring training. Scrimmages should be development environments where coaches can create situations, teach in real time, and build game IQ.

What is a controlled scrimmage?

A controlled scrimmage is a game environment where coaches intentionally manipulate situations to create learning opportunities. Instead of simply letting a game unfold, coaches create scenarios that force athletes to think, communicate, and execute.

Example of a Controlled Scrimmage Plan

Coaches can structure a scrimmage like a practice plan. Example format:

Inning	Focus
1–2	Situational defense (runner on base scenarios, double plays, communication)
3	Bunt-only inning to work on bunt defense, small ball, and lots of baserunning
4–5	Live hitting with “walk-throughs” – normal play with coaching pauses as needed to walk through scenarios
6	Situational challenge (1–1 count starts, bases loaded, hit-and-run scenarios)

Examples of Controlled Scrimmage Adjustments

• Use five-run inning limits when teams are mismatched or pitch counts climb.

• Kill innings when things get out of hand or when pitch counts are met.

• Place a coach on the field during scrimmages to teach positioning and reinforce decisions in real time.

Common Mistakes Coaches Make

• Treating preseason scrimmages like regular games instead of development opportunities.

• Failing to pause the game and teach in real time.

• Letting innings spiral out of control without resetting situations.

• Ignoring what the scrimmage reveals and failing to address it in the next practice.

Bottom Line

Preseason scrimmages should prioritize development over winning. When coaches control situations, pause for teaching moments, and repeat game scenarios, players learn faster and teams are better prepared for the competition that is ahead of them later in the spring and summer.