Purpose
To practice fielding the ball with a backhanded catch. (Note: a backhand catch is when a player has to cross their body with the glove hand in order to catch the ball. This is a critical defensive skill all infielders must master).
Set Up
- Divide your players up into single file lines based on how many coaches you have available. If you have two coaches, make two lines.
- All players should have a glove.
- Coach should stand 15 feet in front of each line.
Instructions
- Drill begins with coach throwing a ground ball to backhand side of first player in line. Fielder should be in a good ready position prior to the throw.
- Once ball is thrown, fielder should move in the direction of the ball while keeping the glove open.
- After making the catch, the fielder throws the ball back to the coach and returns to the end of the line.
- Coach repeats drill with each player in line.
Coaching Tips
As players take their turn in front of the line analyze their “Ready Position” to field the ball:
- Feet should be shoulder width apart
- Knees should be slightly bent
- Both hands should hang between the knees loosely
- Body weight should be on balls of the feet, with a slight forward lean
- Players should keep their eyes on the ball & observe the ball going into the glove
Make it harder: Mix it up with different types of ground balls – forehand, backhand and short hops
Make it easier: Roll the ball slowly to an area marked by a cone