for
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Added April 2, 2003 |
Developing fielding rhythm
By: Ron Bing, Puritas Little
League, Cleveland, Ohio
This
simple drill will help players learn proper fielding positions and
to help develop good fielding rhythm.
The
main objective here is to develop a timing mechanism for each
player, and it helps them learn that the whole fielding process is a
continuously smooth movement. Done correctly, the players movements
should flow continuously and smoothly.
It
should look as if it is one sequence, not individual parts of a whole.
1) Line up the fielders with a few feet between each player.
2) Have the players assume the ready position with their gloves on.
3) At the coach's command, have the players start forward as if moving to a ground ball in front of them. The objective here is not speed but smoothness.
4) After a few steps the coach yells, "field". At this point each player should take two steps, first a right step, then a left step (left handers reverse this). The players are pretending the ball is going into their gloves at this time. The players hold this position while the coach looks to see if they are in the correct fielding position.
5) After making any corrections, the coach says, "resume", and the players continue forward as before.
6) Once the players become comfortable with this, the next step is to imitate the throwing sequence of right/left throw. The full sequence is right/left catch; right/left throw.
Drop Drill - Catching
Teach
young players how to catch the ball correctly.
Have each player lay flat on his or her back. Have a coach stand over each player with a ball. Explain to the player that if the ball is above their hips they should catch the ball with the fingers up and if the ball is below the waist they should catch the ball with their fingers down. Then have the coach drop the ball into the player's glove from different positions. This will help the player understand proper glove technique.
DIRT LINES "Ground Ball Drill"
Great
Drill For Teaching Ground Ball Fundamentals
This drill is used to teach young players to get their hands and glove out front when fielding a grounder. The young player often gets in the habit of catching grounders close to his or her feet or slightly in front of the toes. As coaches, we want infielders to extend their arms and get the glove out in front so that they can see the ball into it. The player should "lay" the glove on the ground out in front of his body. Each players distance will vary. However, a good rule of thumb is to try and extend the length from the players arm or from the tip of the fingers to the armpit. Another good measuring scale is they should be able to extend the length of the bat they use. This distance is measured on the ground from the back of his heel outward. For this drill we pair two players. The players will roll grounders to each other from about 6 to 8 feet. The coach draws two lines in the dirt about 8 feet apart. The players must catch the ball out in front of this line. The coach will then draw a second line for each player, The players feet must stay behind this line. The players roll the ball and catch it while making sure to:
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1) Get extension |
The distance can be changed to accommodate the speed of the groundball work.
Cut-off Relays
Great
for building skills, speed, accuracy, confidence and skills of the
CUT OFF Man
This drill is a great skill builder. There will be at least 5 players on a team. They line up about 30 feet apart and stretch about 120 feet across the field. You will have two teams or "lines" competing against each other. Make sure to have you catcher, first baseman, and third baseman on one end. Have an outfielder on the opposite end. Your middle infielder should be in the middle. The drill will start for both lines at the same time. The first team to take the ball to the other end and get it back is the winner. The ball must be caught and thrown by each player in the line. Teams may not skip a man. The catchers should practice catching and tagging a runner. The middle infielders should be taught to properly "round" the ball, make a proper relay catch and quick throw. We often do this drill and the losing team must do 5 or 10 pushups or squat thrust.
Catcher-----30 ft--------Player------30 ft-------Player------30 ft-------Player------30 ft-------Outfielder
The distances should be matched to the age. You may also have the outfielder let the ball go and hit the fence, before he goes retrieves it and makes his throw to the cutoff man. You may also want to make this a "total team" drill with the whole team having to catch and throw the ball to cover a long distance. If you have the room to do this, it is great to have the team work together to beat the clock. They must beat a set time or they "pay". You may also want to have the "line" make more than one trip down and back. It is great to make each "line" take the ball to the other end three times.
You may also want to perform this task with only 3 players per team at 60 feet apart in order to work on the Cut Off Man skills.
Catcher----------------60 ft-----------------Shortstop---------------------60 ft-----------------Outfielder
Football
helps
players get used to judging fly balls, and making good throws to the
cut-off man
This is a fun drill for younger players.
Split the players into 2 teams and line them up about 10 feet apart with You (the coach) in the middle, and a coach (or parent) on the outside of each line.
Have each line alternate having a player back-peddle about 25-30 feet, where You will then throw a pop up to either side of the player. If they catch the ball, they get 2 points. As soon as they catch the ball, they have to set themselves and make a perfect throw to the coach on their side. If the throw is good, they get an additional point. Run them through this 3 times each, alternating the lines.
Then have them run back on an angle (instead of back-peddling), and throw the ball to either side of them, forcing them to adjust. The same point system is used.
The players have fun with this drill, and it helps them get used to judging fly balls, and making good throws to the cut-off man.
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Added April 1, 2003 |
Counting hops
By: Brad Lunceford, Elbert County
Comprehensive Highschool baseball team
An easy infield drill my high school coach taught me. He would hit a ground ball to me and tell me to count the hops it took. This drill helps you to keep your eye on the ball. Most of the time you can see if a ball is going to take a bad hop and adjust. 9 times out of 10 you will field the ball properly with out an error.
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Added April 1, 2003 |
Deadball Drill
To reinforce the mechanics of throwing and to teach players to pick up a dead ball with their throwing hand
Place players in single file at third base, shortstop, second base and home. Place two coaches at first base. Place balls at each infield position and in front of home plate. Place balls in normal fielding positions. The third baseman starts the drill by picking up a "dead ball", crow hopping and throwing to first base, the shortstop follows the third baseman, then second base, followed by home plate. The coach at first base receiving the throws should roll the ball back to the thrower. The thrower will place the ball in its proper position and go to the back of the line. Rotate player groups from position to position after each player has thrown two or three times.
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Added April 1, 2003 |
Grounders Drill
A
great drill for getting a lot of fielding work in a short time,
while
also stressing the importance of team work.
Have the fielder's line-up at the infield positions, except for the pitcher and catcher. Have to coaches hit grounders alternately as follows. Rotation 1, coach A hits to third base, third base throws to first, coach B hits grounder to second base, second base turns and makes the throw to shortstop covering second. Rotation 2, coach A hits grounder to shortstop, shortstop makes the throw to first base, coach B hits a grounder to third base, third base turns and make the thrown to second base. Rotation 3, coach A hits to second base, second base turns and makes the throw to first base, coach B hits to shortstop, shortstop makes the throw to third base.. Rotation 4, coach A hits to first base, first base make the throw to third base, coach B hits to shortstop, shortstop makes throw to second base. Start over with rotation 1.
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Added April 1, 2003 |
Fungo Fielding Drill
To
provide players with an opportunity to field a large number of
ground balls
Drill has one fielder, who stands 40-60 feet in front of the hitter (depending on their age), and one shagger, who stands on the right side of the hitter. (Three person groups.) Drill can have as many groups as desired.
The hitter hits 10 ground balls to the fielder. The field fields the ground balls and throws them to the shagger. After fielding 10 ground balls, the fielder becomes the shaggerr, the shagger becomes the hitter, and the hitter becomes the new fielder. The drill continues to proceed in this manner for as long as desired.
This is a good drill for getting a lot of grounders in, in a short amount of time.
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Added April 1, 2003 |
Pick-up Drill
1.)
To improve the players overall conditioning.
2.)
To improve the player's ability to move laterally and to assume a
good defensive position in fielding a ground ball.
The drill has one tosser and one player, who are 6-7 feet apart facing each other. (Pairs) Drill can have as many groups as desired.
The tosser rolls a ball about 5-6 feet out to the side. The player moves on a semicircular path to field the ball. After picking-up the ball, the player throws the ball back to the tosser. The tosser then rolls a ball about 5-6 feet out to the opposite side, and the player fields the ball in a similar manner. The drill sequence is repeated from five to 10 times depending on the player's conditioning level. The number of repetitions is increased as the players conditioning level improves.
It is important for the player to field the ball by moving on a semicircular path in order for the drill to be effective.
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Added April 1, 2003 |
One Knee Throwing Drill
To
develop the player's arm and shoulder strength for throwing.
Each player kneels on the ground 10 yards apart facing each other. (Right handed players kneel on right knee with the left leg out in front, while left handed players kneel on left knee with the right leg out in front.) Each pair has one baseball.
The players throw the ball back and forth to each other for a desire time period. Then the players are moved apart another 5 yards, and they continue to throw back and forth to each other for an additional time period. The drill continues to proceed in this manner for as long as desired. The distance the players are moved apart depends on their arm and shoulder strength.
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Added April 1, 2003 |
Line Relay Drill
To simulate throw under game conditions. Works on proper execution of throwing and relay mechanics
Divide the team into groups of four. Place members of each group between 60 and 90 feet apart depending on age. Place first person on the first base foul line and spread the balance of player towards left field. Infielders should be in the middle two "relay men" positions so they can practice relay moves. Player at the beginning of the line has a ball. On coaches command player throws the ball down and back a predetermined number of times. If an overthrow occurs or relay man is missed, the ball must be returned and the throw made accurately before ball can be advanced. The winning group is the group who throws the ball down and back the predetermined number of times the fastest. The "relay men" should turn to their glove hand side.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Backpedal Drill
(Develop footwork)
The first player moves forward from the starting line. Coach rolls a ball to him and the player breaks down and fields the ball. The player then BACK PEDALS as fast as he can to the starting line and flips the ball to players on the side waiting their turn.
When he reaches the starting line, he moves forward again and breaks down to field the second ball. The player BACK PEDDLES again and repeats for the third ball. Coach won't roll the balls until the player is moving.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Backing Up Drill
(Practice fielding, throwing,
covering bases & backing up)
Position a player on first base, second base, home plate and a player backing up each of these positions. Position the remaining players in a row behind third base.
Coach:
Instruct the players how to play the back-up position (15-20 feet behind the player receiving the throw and in line with the on-coming throw.) The player at third base will field and throw 3 balls and then move over to cover second base.
Make your hits (or throws) easy to field so it will keep the drill moving quickly. Hit them in the following order:
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(1) The first one right at third base. |
Place a coach between home and first base to take throws from players covering first base and second base.
Some younger teams use this for their pre-game infield, as it is fast moving and involve all the players.
Players:
The coach will hit 3 balls for each player to field at third base. Throw the first one to first base, the second one to second base, and the third one to home.
After the throw home, hustle over to cover second base while the players covering bases and backing up rotate to:
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(1) 2nd base to 2nd base backup. |
Players covering first base and second base, throw the ball to the coach between home and first base.
Coaching Tip: Walk your players though this drill a couple of times. Once perfected, this drill is well worth the effort.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Blind Toss
(To teach players to react to
a hit instead of anticipating one)
A player stands about 20 feet away from you with his back to you. Toss a ball high into the air then call "Ball!" The player turns around, locates the ball, and catches it.
Coaching Points: This drill is a confidence builder. It teaches players that they can get to a ball much quicker than they think they can.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Catcher's Drill
(Develop catching skills)
I think the two primary skills for high school
catchers are blocking and throwing effectively. These two skills take
the longest to develop, and therefore are the two we spend the most
time working on. I would like to share our techniques for developing
blocking skills. The basic process cue is "Glove to the ball -
knees to the glove". The difficulty is that most try to do it
the opposite way.
The teaching process is this...
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1. In a catcher's stance, no glove, 3 balls arranged in a shallow triangle. The first ball is dead center behind the plate, the second to the right and forward and the third to the left and forward. Balls 2 and 3 are even with each other. Catcher falls forward to the ball on his hands and then brings both knees to his hands. Do this with each of the balls, emphasizing that the angle of the body must deflect the ball onto home plate. 2. In a stance, with glove. Catcher puts glove to the ball and then brings knees to the glove. Do with each ball position till the move comes easy. 3. Full gear, throw soft balls (tennis or indoor balls). Catcher blocks by glove to ground/ball then knees to ball. We are short tossing at this point. 4. Full distance soft ball toss. Same process. 5. Hard balls, short throws. 6. Full distance throws medium speed to called area. 7. Full distance throw hard to called area. 8. Full distance throws to varied areas. |
Once we are satisfied with the technique development, we work regularly in bouts of 50 blocks, 10 at a time. Catchers work in pairs. In season we cut back to 25 blocks and what we have seen is that catchers will cup over the ball naturally using this technique. They become active players, like infielders charging the ball, rather than targets for missiles. The final step is to add block the ball then get up and recover it. This is the best and quickest method I've seen and/or used. Hope it helps.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Charging Drill
(Improve player's ability to charge
softly hit ground ball)
The drill can have as many tossers as desired. Drill can have three or more players in the lines, which are about 70 feet in front of the tossers.
The tosser throws a ground ball so that the player has to charge the ball at about midway between the tosser and the player. The player then throws the ball back to the tosser, turns to the right, and jogs back to the end of the line.
A variation of this drill would be for infielders to start about 70 feet in front of the tossers, outfielders should start about 90 feet in front of the tossers.
The tosser still attempts to throw the ground ball so that the player has to charge the ball at about midway between the tosser and the player. Rotation can also be varied so that the player replaces the tosser who in turns goes to the end of the line.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Double Play
(Develop double play skills)
'Make sure of one' is considered as being negative. Pivot man must get to bag early, and the first throw to that player is the most important. Try to make the throw where the 2B wants' it. The 2B should only have to change the direction of the ball, not catch it. He should receive the ball on the glove side of his body, so that his momentum carries him to 1B. You should time how long it takes for the 2B to make his turn and throw to 1B. Time from the moment the ball hits his glove to the time the ball hits the 1B's glove.
A good throw will take .4 seconds off the pivot man's turn.
After the pivot, the 2B should point his toe to
1B to open his hips to be able to throw in that direction.
For the SS, the ball should be thrown to the outfield
side of the bag.
From here, the SS should sweep the bag. His momentum
will be towards first.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Double Play Drill
(Develop fielding & throwing skills)
You will need a catcher, two players at 1st base, and the remaining players evenly divided at the shortstop and 2nd base positions.
The coach hits a ground ball to the SS position, the 2B player runs to 2B and then pivots and throws to 1B. The two players then go around to the end of the opposite line they came from.
Once everyone has had a chance to field at the SS position the coach then hits the ball to the 2B position, the SS covers 2B, then pivots and throws to 1B.
Once everyone has had a chance to field at 2B the coach then randomly hits the ball to either the SS or 2B position. The two players at 1B rotate positions every three catches. The second player at 1B acts as a backup for overthrows.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Fence Drill
Quicken reaction time to grounders
& line drives using lateral movement
At the end of each practice the entire team competes in a contest to see which player can keep the most out of ten balls from hitting a chain link fence at his back. The fungo hitter stands only thirty-five or so feet from the fielder. The fielder has 20 feet of fence to cover. The fence is 6 feet tall. We hit to the left and the right, up and down.
The pace between fungos quickens. A clean catch is not necessary to score. The player need only keep the ball from hitting the fence to his rear. By the end of the summer, players need from between 8 to 10 out of 10 to win.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Fielding Bunts
(Improve pitcher's ability to field
bunts and throw to specific bases)
Two or more pitchers are in the pitching area. First and third basemen are in position, shortstop is at second. The coach is at home with a bucket of balls. Each pitcher in turn simulates a pitch, the coach throws a ball in a bunt pattern, the pitcher fields the bunt and throws to first base. The next pitcher does the same but throws to second base. Each time the pitcher throws to a different base. The basemen return the balls to the coach.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Fly Ball Drill
(Improve a player's ability to
catch a fly ball while moving up)
There is one tosser and one player in each group. Have as many groups as desired. The player starts 90 feet away from the tosser. The tosser throws a fly ball to around 75 feet where the player must run up to catch or retrieve the ball. The player then throws the ball back to the tosser and runs back to the starting position. The drill continues in the same manner with the tosser throwing the ball to about 60 feet, then 45 feet, then 30 feet, and finally 15 feet. Each time after catching or retrieving the ball, the player throws the ball back to the tosser and then runs back to the starting position.
Coaching Points:
This is a good drill for early season conditioning in order to increase the player's overall endurance. Also, this drill can be performed indoors during inclement weather.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Fungo Fielding Drill
(Provide players opportunity to
field lots of balls)
Drill has one fielder, who is 60 feet in front of hitter, and one shagger, who stands on the right side of the hitter (three person groups.) Drill can have as many groups as desired.
The hitter hits 10 ground balls to the player. After fielding the 10 ground balls, the player becomes the shagger, the shagger becomes the hitter, and the hitter becomes the new fielder. The drill continues to proceed in this manner for as long as desired.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Go-Look Drill
(Improve player's ability to
catch balls on the run)
Divide your players into two lines. The lines should be approximately 20 yards apart with the coach between them. Alternating lines, the player behind the first player calls "GO!" Upon this command, the player in front takes off from the line. The coach throws a pop fly and calls out "Look". The fielder then locates the ball and breaks to catch it.
Coaching Points: With two coaches, you could do two lines simultaneously. Watch that each player concentrates on the ball after locating it. Be sure that you loft the ball high enough so the outfielder has time to get into position and catch it.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
High Rise
(Develop shoulder strength &
ability to field high flies)
This is a great drill to develop shoulder strength, however it is not easy to master.
1. With your weight on your back foot and your front foot slightly ahead throw the ball straight up into the air.
2. If you dare you may try catching the ball when it comes down. Always catch the ball in front of you during this drill because you will, guaranteed, miss a few.
3. Start at a low number of throws building up to about 25 to 30 each practice session.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Hit One & Cover
(Improve throwing accuracy)
With the infield in position, hit a ball to the third basemen who makes the throw to first. First base brings the ball home, and the catcher throws it back to the third basemen who brings it home again.
Repeat the activity around the infield with each new base throwing to the previous one, i.e. hit to first comes home back to first then to second third and home again. If proper throws are not made, then start the drill again. This will help get the infielders set, and used to making good throws.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Infield-Outfield Jurisdiction
(Improve communications when
fielding same ball)
Drill has two tossers, who are in front of home plate. Each tosser has a shagger, who stands on the right side of the tosser. Drill has one or more players at the defensive positions for the first baseman, second baseman, shortstop, third baseman, right fielder and left fielder. Tosser 1 throws a fly ball deep in the gap behind first base, while tosser 2 throws a fly ball deep in the gap behind third base. The first baseman, second baseman, and right fielder work together to catch the fly ball thrown by tosser 1, while the shortstop, third baseman, and left fielder work together to catch the fly ball thrown by tosser 2.
A third sequence is to have one tosser in front of the pitching area with a shagger. Second baseman, shortstop, and center fielder are in defensive positions. The tosser throws a fly ball behind second base. The second baseman, shortstop, and center fielder work together to catch the fly ball.
Coaching Points:
The outfielders should have jurisdiction over all infielders. It is important to establish a fly ball jurisdiction rule at the beginning of the season.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Lateral Movement 1
(Improve lateral movement &
defensive fielding posture)
Three to five players at a time for each set of six balls. One group starts in a defensive position between first base and second base and in front and between balls three and four. The other group starts in a defensive position between second base and third base and in front and between balls three and four. Each group uses a cross-over step to the first ball on the right and jogs back to the starting position, pauses, then uses a cross-over step tot he first ball on the left and jogs back to the starting position, pauses, and continues in this manner until all balls have been covered.
A variation is played with eight balls placed between the bases. The players then assume their positions between balls 4 and 5.
Coaching Points:
It is important that the players maintain a low position while moving to the ball and assume a good defensive position when getting to the ball.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Lateral Movement 2
(Improve player's ability to react
& move laterally when fielding a ground ball)
The drill has two tossers near the pitching area. Each tosser has two shaggers with one standing on each side of the tosser. The drill can have four or more players in each line. One line of players is at the shortstop's defensive position, while the other line of players is at the second baseman's defensive position.
The tosser throws a ground ball randomly to the right or left of the player making the player move laterally to field the ball. After fielding the ball, the player throws the ball back to the shagger on that side. Then the player turns to the outside and jogs back to the end of the line.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Lateral Pick-Up Drill
(Improve player's ability to move laterally)
The drill has one tosser and one player, who are 6-7 feet apart facing each other. (Pairs) Drill can have as many groups as desired.
The tosser rolls a ball about 5-6 feet out to the side. The player moves on a semicircular path to field the ball. After picking-up the ball, the player throws the ball back to the tosser. The tosser then rolls a ball about 5-6 feet out to the opposite side and the player fields the ball in a similar manner. The drill sequence is repeated from five to 10 times depending on the player's conditioning level. The number of repetitions is increased as the players conditioning level improves.
It is important for the player to field the ball by moving on a semicircular path in order for the drill to be effective.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Nine Outs Game
(Teach players how to stay on top
over a longer period of play)
The team is divided into two squads.
The teams play an intrasquad game with the defensive team staying on the field for nine outs, instead of three. The bases are cleared after a new inning is started after three outs.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Over The Shoulder Catch Drill
(Improve player's ability to
catch ball over the shoulder)
The drill can have as many tossers as desired. The drill can have 4 or more players in each line. Each player has a ball.
The tosser stands on the left side of the player. The player hands the ball to the tosser then runs out, and the tosser leads with a fly ball so that the player has to reach to catch the ball over the left shoulder. After catching or retrieving the ball, the player turns to the left and jogs back to the end of the line.
A variation of this drill would be to work the players in a rotation of tosser, fielder, end of line. Make sure to have all players also work on fielding fly balls over the right shoulder.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Ready, Catch & Throw
(Develop catching & throwing skills)
Set up 2 orange cones about 10 ft apart. About 10 ft back from the center of the cones you just placed, place the 3rd cone so that you now have a triangle formed with all the cones.
Have your players line up, single file behind cone number 3. You stand about 20 ft directly in front of the 1st 2 cones. The player at the front of the line should be in "ready" position.
You now begin to throw grounders between the first 2 cones. As you throw the grounder, the player at the front of the line should charge the ball, make the catch and then throw the ball back to you. Once done, the player returns to the back of the line. You throw the next ground ball and the next player charges the ball and so on. This should continue for about ten minutes so that each player gets plenty of chances to "make the play". This will also give you an opportunity to see where your players need tuning. Are they getting their glove down, keeping the ball in front of them, catching it with "soft hands" and so on.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Run Down Drill
(Practice the
"cutoff" position & running down the baserunner)
Divide your players into two groups. One coach will be with each group.
Group A -- Position a fielder on first base and second base. Position a relay man halfway between about 20-30 feet out into the right field. Place a baserunner halfway between first and second base.
Group B -- Position fielder at home plate and third base with the relay man on the pitching mound. Place a runner halfway between third base and home.
The coaches will throw to the relay man. The relay man will turn and throw to the appropriate fielder (whichever fielder the runner is breaking towards). The base runner cannot break until cutoff man receives the throw from the coach.
The keys to a run down are:
(1) The player with the ball running with his arm in the cocked throwing position ready to throw.
(2) Both fielders being on the same side (throwing arm side of fielder with the ball) of the base path clear of the baserunner.
Players:
Fielder throws to the cutoff man who will catch the throw, turn and do one of the following:
(1) Throw the ball to the fielder covering the base the runner is breaking for.
(2) Force the runner (by starting towards the runner with arm cocked ready to throw) to commit which way he is going.
The fielder receiving the throw from the relay man should either:
(1) Tag out the runner coming towards him.
(2) Force the runner back to the other base if he changes direction.
(3) Run him back to the "point of no return"' then tag him or throw to your partner.
Tip: Some coaches teach their team to make only one throw, and not worry about forcing the runner back to the base he came from, except from third to home.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Short Hop
(To catch & control bad / short
hop ground balls)
Divide your team into 2 groups and line them up facing each other about 15 feet apart. Players should square off with the player directly in front of them.
Have the players with the ball gently toss a ground ball to their "partner" so that it takes one bounce (short hop) just in front of the receiving player. The receiving player should be in ready position, and upon catching the ball, draw their hands in towards the body. The body and hands should flow with the ball. The receiving player now becomes the thrower and tosses the ball back in the same manner. Go back and forth for 5 to 10 minutes.
IMPORTANT: The player throwing the ball should not be trying to trick or get the ball by their partner, but throw the ball lightly and with the short hop bounce. As the players get more proficient, they can move farther apart and begin to throw a little harder.
Make it competitive by keeping track of dropped or uncaught balls for each pair of players. Losers do a lap.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Slide and Catch
(To improve an outfielder's ability
to catch low, dropping balls)
The outfielders are divided into two groups. Each group is arranged in a line about 90 feet in front of a hitter. The drill has two hitters, with one hitter on the right field sideline, and the other hitter on the left field sideline. Each hitter has a shagger, who stands on the right side of the hitter. The hitter hits a fly ball in front of the outfielder. The outfielder performs a bent-leg slide while catching the ball and then throws the ball to the respective shagger.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Soft Hands
(Develop soft hands)
The drills I would like to share is one that helps infielders to develop "soft" hands and release the ball quickly and one that helps with lateral movement and fielding: Have four infielders form a square with about 10 ft. between them. Then, without gloves they flip the ball around counter-clockwise, then shift direction and gradually increase the distance. In the other one divide the infielders into pairs and have them face their partner at a distance of about 10 to 15ft then, while moving sideways they roll the ball to each other a couple of times before shifting direction. It's important in this drill that the fielders stay low and get rid of the ball quickly.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Soft Hands 2
(Develop soft hands)
Take a Ping-Pong paddle and cut the handle off and staple a batting glove to the back. The player puts his glove hand in the glove and fields ground balls from a fungo. The drill emphasizes the use of the top hand, to ensure the ball doesn't become loose and so that the throwing hand is there to throw or flip the ball.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Soft Hands 3
(To help ensure that fielders
use their free hand to help catch ball)
A different form of soft hands and a drill or two to go along with it.
We use black rubber conveyor belt or something with a similar density to take out the sting. The optimal width of the material is about 3/8" thick. Lay your glove hand flat on a piece of paper and draw a line around it. Give yourself about 1 1/2 to 2 inches cushion around the entire hand. Cut on the dotted line and now you have an outline for a paddle. You just need the material to cut it out of. Something that will not shock if we want to catch baseballs with it, but something that will make the player use his free hand to catch the ball. The best we have found is the conveyor belt. Once we have cut the paddles, we add a strap (that covers the entire back of the hand) of innertube to the back to hold the paddle in place. We drill holes in the paddle and run a piece of leather through each side to hold the tube in place. We use a sort of plastic washer to hold the tube down. They are easy to make, very cheap if you can access the materials, and we have never had one break.
The four basic paddle drills are designed to simulate the underhand and overhand flips most commonly used by 2nd basemen and shortstops. The players will partner up and start about 10 yards apart. The one with the ball will start in a fielding position, ball in hand, and right shoulder facing his partner. He is about to perform the underhand flip that a 2nd baseman uses in starting a double play. We teach him to pivot on his right foot and crossover...show his partner the ball the whole way....flip the ball chest high with no spin on the ball...and follow your flip. The receiving partner in ALL paddle drills performs the motions a 2nd baseman would to complete a double play.... weight on right side, ball up quickly, etc. He will always start in a position facing his partner in a ready position.... hands up and in front of body...weight on the balls of your feet...constant movement with feet in anticipation of any type throw. Once the ball has gone from originator to receiver we have worked on two different things...and the bonus is the improving eye-hand coordination as a residual effect. Staying where they are, the players switch drills...so the original receiver is now tossing and the tosser is now the receiver. The drills go very quickly. The basic four can be completed in 8-10 minutes if you stay on task. You can do them inside or outside and they take very little room. You can use any kind of ball you wish. The benefit from the drills comes from repetition. They should be done daily.
We describe the different paddle drills based on where the tossing partner will start. We want to complete 10 from each starting position daily. It is probably easiest to teach the drills for the first time on the field where they will actually make the movements we are practicing. The kids will understand fairly quickly and will take it from there. The four drills are 1) up close - right shoulder 2) up close - left shoulder 3) back up - right shoulder 4) back up - left shoulder. Number 1 is the one we described above and it is the 2nd baseman's toss from close to the bag. Number two is the shortstop's toss from close to the bag. Number 3 is the 2nd baseman's toss from further back, when he must toss the ball overhand. Number 4, of course, is the shortstop's overhand toss. We give our middle infielders the rule for when to use which toss in a game: if the ball is at you or takes you to the bag, you should flip underhanded. You must communicate your intentions verbally as soon as you know which actions you will take.
These are the basic paddle drills. I didn't describe the footwork that we teach because the drills are not limited to my preferences. Although many coaches would like information on that subject, it is not the subject of this piece of information.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Throw & Run
(Helps with basic fundamentals)
Have three players line up about 70 feet from the rest of the group (everybody can participate) and give the first player in the line a ball. The rest of the group should line up slightly to the side so the fielder can run left or right. Then the player with the ball throws it on the ground to the first player on the other side, who fields it properly, throws it to the second player in the first line, and runs over to join the first line. The player who threw the grounder should run to the other line after his throw.
Continue until everyone is dead tired. First throw the grounders to the left, then right, then straight on so the fielder has to run in and make an underhand flip. Round off with both sides throwing the ball back and forth instead off rolling it. In short, throw a grounder and run, field, throw, and run. Vary the distance as well as putting only two players in the first line, which will force the players to really run.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Volleyball
(To emphasize the need to
communicate in the outfield)
Description: Create two teams. Use the foul fence or home run fence as the "net". Players throw pop-ups back and forth over the net. A team scores a point if the ball lands on the ground on the opposite side. Encourage your players to call out for the ball.
Coaching Points:
Players must communicate on the field to know who is going to catch the ball. Executed properly, this drill can help prevent injuries from collisions in the outfield
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Added April 6, 2003 |
5 Star
Throwing Drill
(Develop
Throwing Skills)
Place players in five separate groups that form an upside down pentagon.
X2 X5
X4 X3
X1
X1 has the baseball, throws it to X2 and follows his throw. X2 throws the ball to X3 and follows his throw. X3 throws the ball to X4 and follows his throw. X4 throws the ball to X5 and follows his throw. X5 throws the ball to X1 line and follows his throw.
This drill can be run inside or out and at any distance. Shorten the distance to work on quick hands, and lengthen the distance to provide long throwing for your players. This drill forces the players to follow their throw. By doing this you will find the players are more likely to make a correct throwing motion and step directly at their target.
Sometimes, drills which require a player to return to the end of their line after making a throw, have a tendency to make the player hurry to go in an opposite direction of their throw, which can interfere with extension and follow through. You can shorten the throwing by having the players about 10 feet apart.
You can extend it as far as 200 feet outside. This also serves as a good conditioner. One important detail about the drill, after a player throws the ball to another line he should follow his throw to the outside to avoid getting hit by the next thrown ball.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
The 4
Corners Drill
(Develop Bunting Skills)
Players divide into 4 groups. Have them gather around each of the bases and home plate. A player uses the plate or base as a home plate and stands ready to drag, squeeze, or sacrifice bunt, with another player pitching from his knee about 10 feet away.
Have someone catching, and the other player's field with bare hands. Each player bunts the ball 5 times and then everyone rotates until all three types of bunts are laid down correctly, making sure that fundamentals are being done, with a coach at each station.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
8-Ball Drill
This drill is divided into eight steps:
1) Player stands shoulder width apart, puts throwing arm up at 90 degree angle, holds elbow with glove, throws ball to partner just using his wrist action.
2) Player sits with legs spread and has arm in same position, only this time he can use his elbow and wrist to throw the ball to his partner.
3) Player remains sitting, only now he can rotate his hips and turn his upper torso to throw the ball. Follow through is not necessary yet. There is an emphasis on using the glove arm or elbow to direct throw.
4) Player now goes to one knee. He rotates his hips and upper torso and throws the ball, only now he puts the emphasis on following through across his knee, which is raised.
5) Player now stands with glove arm closest to partner, and feet shoulder width apart. Using all of the above steps, he throws the ball concentrating on follow through, but he cannot move his feet.
6) Player now goes to the postposition as in pitching, and throws the ball using the above steps. Emphasis in this step is balance at the postposition.
7) Player now uses all the steps above and crow hops and throws the ball to his partner. Emphasis in this step is proper technique of the crow hop.
8) Finally, the last step is long toss. We also have added to the last step, playing quick toss, which is for the infielders. They stand about 10 feet apart and toss the ball to each other as quickly as they can for one minute making it a contest.
Emphasis here is on a quick release and concentrating on the ball entering and leaving the glove.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Backing Up Drill
(To practice
fielding, throwing, covering bases & backing-up)
Position a player on first base, second base, home plate and a player backing up each of these positions. Position the remaining players in a row behind third base.
Coach:
Instruct the players how to play the back-up position (15-20 feet behind the player receiving the throw and in line with the on-coming throw.) The player at third base will field and throw 3 balls and then move over to cover second base.
Make your hits (or throws) easy to field so it will keep the drill moving quickly. Hit them in the following order:
(1) The first one right at third base.
(2) The second one toward the pitchers' mound.
(3) The third one a pop fly toward third base.
Place a coach between home and first base to take throws from players covering first base and second base.
Some younger teams use this for their pre-game infield as it is fast moving and involve all the players.
Players:
The coach will hit 3 balls for each player to field at third base. Throw the first one to first base, the second one to second base, and the third one to home.
After the throw home, hustle over to cover second base while the players covering bases and backing up rotate to:
(1) 2nd base to 2nd base backup.
(2) 2nd base backup to 1st base backup.
(3) 1st base backup to 1st base.
(4) 1st base to home plate backup.
(5) Home plate back-up to home plate.
(6) Home plate to the end of the line at 3rd base.
Players covering first base and second base, throw the ball to the coach between home and first base.
Coaching Tip: Walk your players though this drill a couple of times. Once perfected, this drill is well worth the effort.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Hop-Step Throw
(To improve the
one hop-step throw)
The outfielders are divided into partners, who are 100 feet apart. Player 1 throws to player 2 a low ball, which hits some distance in front of player 2. Player 2 fields the ball and then performs a hop-step throw to player 1, again sending it low to hit some distance in front. For the second round, players throw to their partner at head height. For the third round, players throw high flies to their partners.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Long Toss
(Increase
throwing strength & accuracy)
Probably the most important pre-season ritual is long-toss. Start out with basic fundamentals on throwing. Begin at about 40 feet in week one and then increase 10 to 15 feet every week until your first game. You will usually end up at about 250 feet or so. Do long-toss for 10 minutes everyday.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Machine Gun Throw
(To develop
quick hands & feet)
DRILL SET UP:
Put 7 players in a straight line approximately 3 to 4 feet apart with the player at the far right holding a baseball. Put 1 player facing the line of 7 approximately 15 feet away from the center player in the line of 7. The player facing the line of 7 also has a baseball.
X8 X7 X6 X5 X4 X3 X2
X1
Coach will say, " go." Player 1 throws his ball to player 3. At the same time player 2 throws his ball to player 1. As soon as player 3 catches the ball he throws it back to player 1. As soon as player 1 catches the ball from player 2 he throws it to player 4, and so on down the line.
Player 1 works his way down the line to player 8, and then back up the line to player 2. At this point player 1 flips his ball to player 3, player 2 replaces player 1 (player 1 then goes to the end of the line) and everyone rotates up one spot and the drill starts over again.
X1 X8 X7 X6 X5 X4 X3
X2
This drill forces the players to catch the ball with two hands. If he catches it with one hand he can't get rid of it in time before the next ball is coming at him. It also teaches our players the importance of stepping at your target because you have to shift your feet in a different direction before throwing to the next person in line. A player who is lax or sloppy with his glove or feet is easily spotted in this drill.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
One Knee
Throwing Drill
(To develop
players arm & shoulder strength)
Each player kneels on the ground, 10 yards apart facing each other. (Right handed players kneel on right knee with the left leg out in front, while left handed players kneel on left knee with the right leg out in front.) Each pair has one baseball.
The players throw the ball back and forth to each other for a desired time period. Then the players are moved apart another 5 yards. They continue to throw back and forth to each other for an additional length of time. The drill continues to proceed in this manner for as long as desired. The distance the players are moved apart depends on their arm and shoulder strength.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Quarterback
(To
improve long toss ability & arm strength)
This drill is called the quarterback drill because the best place to practice this drill is on a football field. It is a great drill to implement into a long toss program to develop arm strength. It is also a good way to determine if you are increasing and maintaining your arm strength by the distance that you throw the ball. A football field is the best for measuring this.
1. Make sure that you are warmed up properly.
2. Get a running start behind one of the goal posts.
3. Release the ball while you have your forward momentum.
4. Try to throw the ball on a line as far as you can.
5. Make about 5 throws at a time, allowing yourself time to rest while you retrieve the balls.
6. Do a maximum of 10 to 15 throws each practice session.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Relay Race
(Improve
throwing mechanics)
Divide your team into two lines, around 8ft. apart.
X X X X X X
X X X X X X
Give the first player in each line a baseball and have a relay race with the baseball of three or more rounds. When the ball gets to the end of the line, and back to the player at the beginning, it is considered one lap.
Make sure each player is turning on the glove hand as they turn to throw. If a player in the line misses the ball, that player must retrieve the ball and throw to the next player in-line. The team that completes the amount of laps set, is the winner.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Rubber Flippers
(To improve
control & accuracy in throws requiring flipping action)
A different form of soft hands, and a drill or two to go along with it. We use black rubber conveyor belt or something with a similar density to take out the sting. The optimal width of the material is about 3/8" thick. Lay your glove hand flat on a piece of paper and draw a line around it. Give yourself about 1 1/2 to 2 inches cushion around the entire hand. Cut on the dotted line and now you have an outline for a paddle. You just need the material to cut it out of. Something that will not shock if we want to catch baseballs with it, but something that will make the player use his free hand to catch the ball. The best we have found is the conveyor belt. Once we have cut the paddles, we add a strap (that covers the entire back of the hand) of innertube to the back to hold the paddle in place. We drill holes in the paddle and run a piece of leather through each side to hold the tube in place. We use a sort of plastic washer to hold the tube down. They are easy to make, very cheap if you can access the materials, and we have never had one break!
The four basic paddle drills are designed to simulate the underhand and overhand flips most commonly used by 2nd basemen and shortstops. The players will partner up and start about 10 yards apart. The one with the ball will start in a fielding position, ball in hand, and right shoulder facing his partner. He is about to perform the underhand flip that a 2nd baseman uses in starting a double play. We teach him to pivot on his right foot and crossover...show his partner the ball the whole way.... flip the ball chest high with no spin on the ball...and follow your flip. The receiving partner in ALL paddle drills performs the motions a 2nd baseman would to complete a double play.... weight on right side, ball up quickly, etc. He will always start in a position facing his partner in a ready position.... hands up and in front of body...weight on the balls of your feet...constant movement with feet in anticipation of any type throw. Once the ball has gone from originator to receiver we have worked on two different things...and the bonus is the improving eye-hand coordination as a residual effect. Staying where they are, the players switch drills...so the original receiver is now tossing and the tosser is now the receiver. The drills go very quickly. The basic four can be completed in 8-10 minutes if you stay on task. You can do them inside or outside and they take very little room. You can use any kind of ball you wish. The benefit from the drills comes from repetition. They should be done daily.
We describe the different paddle drills based on where the tossing partner will start.
We want to complete 10 from each starting position daily. It is probably easiest to teach the drills for the first time on the field where they will actually make the movements we are practicing. The kids will understand fairly quickly and will take it from there. The four drills are 1) up close - right shoulder 2) up close - left shoulder 3) back up - right shoulder 4) back up - left shoulder. Number 1 is the one we described above and it is the 2nd baseman's toss from close to the bag. Number two is the shortstop's toss from close to the bag. Number 3 is the 2nd baseman's toss from further back, when he must toss the ball overhand. Number 4, of course, is the shortstop's overhand toss. We give our middle infielders the rule for when to use which toss in a game: if the ball is at you or takes you to the bag, you should flip underhanded. You must communicate your intentions verbally as soon as you know which actions you will take.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Tag &
Throw Drill
(Practice making
tags & throws after tags)
Baserunners are placed at first, second and home. Position a 1st baseman, 2nd baseman, (and a retriever behind second) and a group (single file) between home and third, and a catcher with a ball.
On command (from coach) the action begins. Runner at second breaks for third, player between home and third breaks to cover and take throw for tag out. After tag out he throws to second and then breaks for the mound to field a ground ball.
This drill requires the players to stay alert and hustle. Switch off players so everybody gets a chance for baserunning and making tag plays.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Wall Drill
(Develop
proper extension of throwing arm)
We have our kids line up about a foot or so from a wall with their body perpendicular and their throwing arm closest to the wall. We make them deliver the ball to a catcher 40 or so feet away. The intent of the drill is to make sure that the pitcher isn't getting long in the back. If he is, then he will hit the wall with his throwing arm. Some coaches think that the use of this drill makes the kid short arm the ball, but our kids have full extension towards the ground, not straight back.
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Added April 1, 2003 |
Outfield Throwing Drill
To
develop the outfielders throwing accuracy and emphasize the
importance of throwing the ball low and on the line.
This
drill also works on helping the players understand alignment.
Make sure you work all fields; left, center and right. Start off with all outfielders in left field in single file. Infield and catcher are in their positions. Start off by hitting a grounder down the left field line, outfield throws to second base, then goes to the back of the line. After all fielders have gone through once, hit grounder to left center, outfielder fields the ball and throws to second base, once group has completed one cycle hit grounder directly to left fielder who will now throw to home. Finally, hit a routine fly ball to the left fielder, fielder should catch and then throw home. After group has completed cycle rotate players to center field and start over. During this drill have the infield completed the following throws so that they will not get board. On throws to second base, second baseman should catch the ball, make the tag and then throw to third base, third baseman will catch the ball, make the tag and throw to first, first baseman should catch the ball, step on base and throw to the shortstop, shortstop will catch the ball and throw home. On throws to home, catcher should catch the ball, make the tag and throw to shortstop who is covering third, shortstop will catch the ball, make the tag and throw to first, first throws to second, second to third.
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Added April 1, 2003 |
All Drill
Works on the outfield stopping the ball and making the throw into the infield. Works on base-running and sliding
Line up three, four or five players at the following positions. Right field, first base, and third base.
The player's at first base take turns as base-runners and tries to make it safely to third base. On the coach's signal, the player from first takes off, heading for third base. Every time the runner gets to third base they need to go in sliding. The coach hits the ball behind the runner to the right fielder, the right fielder makes the stop and try's to throw the runner out at third. The third baseman needs to stop the ball and make a low tag. Rotate the players after each turn. Player plays the same position - runner, right field or third base, through two rotations, before moving to another position.
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Added April 1, 2003 |
Star Drill Game
Teaches the infield to concentrate on their throws and allows the coach to stress the importance of team work. If one player doesn't make a good throw the outfielders need to be in position to back up the bases.
Position a complete infield, except for the pitcher, and outfield. The drill starts with the coach hitting to the second baseman, the second baseman throws to third base, the third baseman throws to first base, the first baseman throws to the short stop, and the short stop throws to the catcher. The whole time this is going on you have a runner run the bases. They leave at the same time as the coach hits the ball. Make sure that your fielders stay in their normal positions and do not start moving closer together.
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Added April 1, 2003 |
All Around Drill
Great
for working the infield quickly and warming up and teaching players
how to back up the throw.
(If
you can't see the player making the throw, you are to close to back
up the play)
Position a player at each infield position excluding pitcher and shortstop. Each base excluding the catcher has a backup who is positioned behind the base. Begin the drill with the catcher throwing to first, first throws to second, second throws to home. Continue around five or more times seeing how quickly they can get the ball around. Then reverse and go from home to third, to second to first and back home.
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Added April 1, 2003 |
Bunt Drill
By: Ron Bing, Puritas League,
Cleveland, Ohio
Nothing complicated here, but it will allow you many reps in a very short period of time.
Infielders take up their positions, including a pitcher and catcher. A coach acts as the batter, and the pitcher makes a delivery to the catcher. The coach has a ball in his hand, and after the pitch reaches the plate, he tosses the ball where he wants it to go. This is far superior to having a batter attempt to place the ball by actually hitting it.
Set up particular situations, and have the outfielders and other pitchers act as baserunners.
It has been my experience that too much time can be spent on bunt defense drills, because at the younger ages very few games are won or lost by the bunt. However, it is an area that needs to be worked on so that the players are familiar with their responsibilities should the situation arise.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Infield Drill
(Staying down on ball & correct
throwing when they return ball)
Line up half of the team behind second base and the
other half behind shortstop. Hit them ground balls (not too hard at
first, we're trying to show them how to field right now) and
concentrate on fielding position (staying down on the ball) and also
correct throwing when they return the ball.
(Basics can't be repeated enough)
After each player fields his turn, he returns to the end of the line. You can't hit enough ground balls to your players. Keep in mind that this drill keeps them moving quite a bit. Have the players switch lines after about 5-10 minutes so each coach gets a chance to evaluate all the players.
When you sense them getting tired, turn the drill into a competition. If your line goes without an error then your line can take a break. One error and the whole line go again.
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Added April 6, 2003 |
Split Infield Drill
(Develop fielding skills)
Line up 1st team at the shortstop position
Line up 2nd team at the 2nd base position
Coach at home plate with bucket of balls
Have two players act as catcher, one on each side of the coach. Hit grounders to alternate sides, having the fielder throw the ball to the appropriate side catcher.
After player fields the ball and throws to the left or right side catcher, the player runs to the rear of the opposite line to await his/her turn at fielding grounders from the other side. Make sure the fielding player runs around their line, and behind it to the opposite side, so as not to interfere with the next person up.
Adding Pressure to Infield Drills
By: RADykstra,
We have all heard the phase "you play the way you practice" or words to that effect. So why is it? We scratch our heads when one of our players blows a play in a tight ball game? Could the added pressure of the situation cause physical problems? I've seen kids perfectly field grounders all day long in practice but in a 1-0 game in the bottom of the sixth boot one! What happened to change this player?
We have all been under stress and most of us know we don't react the same as when we are relaxed. Most of us also know that repetition makes a task easier and relaxes the player(s) when they are faced with the same situation in the future. The question becomes how do we create stress during practice in order to help reduce the same during a game? I believe you have to artificially induce the stress through competition or physical demands. Anytime you can devise a drill which pits two players against each other, puts a little more stress in the drill as the players naturally compete against each other. (If they don't they will not be competing long in sports). The other method is to make the drill more physically demanding than it normally would be. It is this in mind that I devised a very simple yet effective infield drill that I use at a majority of my practices.
This drill I call the SS to 1st drill (really creative huh?) and I use it as a warm up into whatever my main infield topic will be for the given day. It only takes 10 minutes. Basically you split up your infielders (or everybody) in lines behind SS and 1B and hit a ball to the SS and he has to field it and throw to 1B. The 1B then throws to a catcher (coach to feed batter) and the next player in each line takes his turn. The stress is induced by making each player run to the opposite line when his turn is over. As the batter, you control the tempo or stress level by the amount of time between ground balls. If you let each player set up and get comfortable and make a play before the next one, little stress is induced, if however you hit the balls one right after another, you should see the boys hustle (especially if there are fewer than 8 players)! I like to start easy and finish with 3 minutes of me hitting grounders as fast as I can. I also put a penalty for any blown attempts... either an extra minute of fast or an extra wind sprint at the end of practice. After 10 minutes of this exercise every one is usually huffing and puffing and you definitely know who the guys with heart are and who the lazy ones are. You, as coach/batter, can also adjust for different players abilities. You hit wide balls to your slick SS and 2B (sometimes making them dive for the ball) and more directly to your 1b and outfielder's. One note: Make sure the runners run along the outfield grass and not directly between the positions. At the end the balls really start flying! I also challenged my team last season and told them if they could ever complete the 3 minutes without a single mistake I would treat them to "31 flavors". It took them a while but in the end we all had Ice cream!
Anyway the benefits of this drill are many in my mind.
1) You get practice fielding ground balls
2) you do it in a stressful situation
3) you add endurance and stamina.
4) You really know the kids are warmed up when it's over.
5) Kids can't dog it and hide (It is very evident who is hustling or not).
1-2-3-Cross!
This
drill covers all of the throws an infielder will make
Here's a nice simple infield drill. This drill covers all of the throws an infielder will make, and it is so quick paced that the players enjoy it.
Position a player at each base and home, give the catcher the ball. The players make three throws around the horn, then on the third catch, that player throws across the diamond to the player diagonally across to him. After four repetitions of this, the players run to the next base and start again.
Here's how it works:C-3b-2b-1b-across to 3b; 3b-2b-1b-c-across to 2b; 2b-1b-c-3b-across to 1b; 1b-c-3b-2b-across to c who makes a sweep tag. Players than run to the next base: c-3b, 3b-2b, 2b-1b, 1b-c. Repeat this four times until the original catcher is back at home plate. Whenever a player throws to the wrong person, stop and give the ball back to him so he can get it to the correct boy. You will be amazed at how often the players will forget to throw across after the third throw. Keep working with them and it will begin to run smoothly. Once your fielders are comfortable with this drill, it makes for a nice pre-game drill. It is just sweet enough to impress your opponent!!
Emphasis good, accurate, properly thrown balls; proper catching technique, and quick feet.
"Make
Believe" Infield
Great
warm-up for certain situations
The team takes perfect infield by allowing every player to make a perfect catch and throw. The way this drill is conducted is the coach does not use a ball. He hits a "make-believe" ball. Each time the player goes through the correct motion of fielding the ball and making a perfect play. Each time the player receiving the throw will pat his glove to simulate a catch. Emphasis is placed on talking, following through, and making everything look perfect. No one will mess up or make a bad mistake. I have used this drill many, many times in practice and before games. It is especially good with young kids to emphasis correct body mechanics. It is also useful if you get to a field for a game and the playing surface is too wet or rough to take a "good" round of infield. Sometimes it is better not to use a real ball in warm-up if there is a risk of the ball taking a terrible bounce. Bad infield and warm-up may bring down "team esteem". I've never had a team take "make believe" infield that was anything less than great! It's always perfect!
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