Run Down, Pickle Drill: 3 man or 4 man

Question
Hi Coach:

I am a Little League coach in Fairport NY (11 / 12 year olds)We have worked on the 3 man pickle drill (three defensive players and one runner) where the player who throws the ball goes to the base he threw it to.

My other coach suggests a 4 man pickle drill (four defensive players and one runner) He said a high school coach uses the 4 man pickle drill.

Which do you suggest for 11/ 12 year olds ?

Thanks,
Steve Berardi

Answer
I have also used the 4-man drill, but I imagine either one gets the point across. While doing these drills, however, it's important to make sure the kids know that the number of throws in an actual run-down should be as few as possible, and the goal should be to make the final play for the out at the bag the runner came from.