Coaching Manual

GAHANNA JUNIOR LEAGUE SPORTS

COACH'S MANUAL

2009

-i- _ Table of Contents

Introduction . 3

Basic Workout Ideas ...... 4

Hitting...... 6

Bunting...... 14

InfieldDrills...... 17

OutfieldDrills...... 24

CatcherDrills ...... 28 28

ThrowingDrills...... 33

PitchingDrills...... 38

Base running drills ...... 42 42 Introduction The Board members of Gahanna Junior League Sports determined that to better serve the youth involved in the program, an effort to familiarize volunteer coaches at all levels with basic principles of baseball is necessary. This manual is meant to aid coaches in developing a practice regiment that trains the youth player in the fundamentals of baseball, promotes proper technique and creates a fun environment.

The ideas contained herein are suggestions and ideas taken from many sources and are not meant to be all inclusive or the final word on the teaching of baseball theory. Many of the ideas however, if taught will help the youth player become a well rounded and fundamentally sound baseball player. As Billy Ripken points out baseball is a simple game played with bats, balls and people. It is important as coaches to not lose sight of this basic truth. The team that plays catch the best is usually the team that comes out on top. The better your players play catch the better they will play the game. The most difficult play in baseball, the double play can be broken down into three catches and two throws which can be accomplished by learning the fundamentals of the game. Learning and utilizing the skills outlined at early stages of player development will create fundamentally sound players at the high school level and beyond. A well run practice will allow the players to learn and have fun. Please remember the primary goal as a coach at this level is to teach and develop baseball players. Winning is both secondary to and, a result of this development. Best of luck for a successful, enjoyable season. We are very grateful that you have elected to participate in guiding and molding the youth of Gahanna. We hope you find these ideas helpful.

3 Basic Workout Ideas Sample Practice Plan -

Ages 12 and under:

10 minutes: BASERUNNING - Dynamic warm up: run bases using proper base running techniques

20 minutes: STRETCH AND THROW - Stretch around the mound or in centerfield - Go over the practice plan in detail

45 minutes: PRACTICE IN STATIONS (small groups)

15 minutes per station and rotate - Hitting stations; (one player on the field hitting, and soft toss, tee work utilizing hitting net off the field) - Fielding and throwing stations during live hitting. - Fly ball and throwing station during live hitting.

10 minutes: BASERUNNING

Common sense should always prevail. For ages 4 to 6, a practice should not last much longer than one hour. Shorter if the players are having trouble paying attention or are having difficulty with the work out. Older players usually can maintain attentiveness for a longer period of time. Still, consideration should be given to the individual Player's ability to remain focused. Sample Practice Plan-

Ages 13 and up

20 minutes: STRETCH, RUN, THROW

20 minutes: GROUND BALLS and FLY BALLS (Use buckets and systems to minimize throws and maximize repetitions) -Two infield fungo stations -One outfield fungo station

20 minutes: TEAM FUNDAMENTALS - Bunt defense - First-and-third defenses - Cutoffs and relays - Pick offs and rundowns - Team baserunning plays

6o minutes: TEAM BATTING PRACTICE

Four stations, 15 minutes each (or io minutes each if you wish to have another team fundamental drill) -Stations can be changed/rotated daily but should always include free hitting. Once the season starts, coaches should prioritize which issues need to be addressed during team fundamental sessions. Please note that infield fungo stations do not mean taking full infield. During batting practice pitchers should be throwing on the side and running.

5 HITTING

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KEY POINTS 1. Stance - starting point, vision, balance, and plate coverage. 2. Grip- loose grip in the fingers with the "door knocking" knuckles lined up to unlock the wrists and allow greater bat speed.

Lei 3. Weight shift-weight shifts to the backside, gathering energy, before being taken forward; verbal cue: "You have to go back before you go forward."

4. Stride- short and soft, toward the pitcher. 5. Swing- short and quick, using hands, wrists and forearms. 6. Follow through- takes care of itself with correct swing elements.

FAST BALL DRILL Purpose: Develop a sense of what quality of pitch to swing at depending upon the count. Count: (o--, i-o, i-i) hit only fast ball in "your zone."

(2-0, 3-1) Fast ball in zone that you hit the best. (2-1)most cases ... a fast ball. However, take into account the pitcher's ability and previous 3 pitch selections; you may based upon this look for a curve or change up.

(3-0) takes unless it is the pitch you came to the park to hit, if swinging do not jump at the pitch but rather look for the pitch in "your zone."

(o-1) no change in attitude, hit a fast ball. (0-2) attitude change must occur, always look fast ball but adjust/react to curve or change. REMEMBER: The strike zone is widened to the black edges of the plate. The farther ahead in the count you get the small your strike zone becomes; the farther behind in the count you get the bigger your strike zone becomes.

7 SOFT TOSS DRILL

Equipment: Net to hit into, 12+ balls Purpose: To improve weight transfer, body control, and timing Description: This drill uses at least two players. Set up the hitter with a partner kneeling about 10 feet away, just off the hitter's front knee. The feeder triggers the hitter's swing by lowering his hands just before tossing the ball. The feeder should float the ball to the inside, outside, and middle part of the plate. The hitter must drive the ball into the net. Coaching points: Use the drill to help players lose their fear of being hit by pitches. Have the feeder switch to safety balls and throw harder. Watch each batter's front foot and head. Work with players who bail out or pull their head off the ball. Give plenty of praise for good technique, especially on inside pitches. TWO STRIKE GAME Purpose: To train players in third strike situations Description: The team is divided into two squads. Players go to the plate with two strike count. The player must choke up and shorten their swing to protect the plate and battle the pitcher until they can get a pitch in the middle of the plate. You can have base runners in this drill if desired. TEE HITTING Equipment: Batting Tee Purpose: To help hitters develop a smooth, compact swing Description: Set up a batting tee on the plate and place your hitting net about 5'-6' away. Using the plate will help the hitter orient their stance to the plate and not the tee. Move the tee to different locations on the plate so the hitter can practice hitting different pitches.

8 Coaching points: This drill is a great introduction for any young hitter. It develops all the skills required to make good contact. Stress concentration on the ball during the swing. FENCE DRILL Equipment: Bat, Fence Purpose: Develop quick, compact swing Description: Hitter should face the fence then put the end of the bat end against the fence lightly with the handle end making slight contact with the hitter's mid-section. Once the hitter is positioned they take their normal batting stance at that distance from the fence. The hitter then takes ten or fifteen swings. If the bat is making more than very light contact with the fence, the hitter is not bringing his hands through ahead of the barrel. To get the hitter to bring his hands through first, have them take their normal swing, but have them "throw" the end handle toward the ball. If the hitter continues to work at this drill it will increase their bat speed and cause them to hit the ball harder. LEAD and FOLLOW HAND (one handed) SWINGS DRILL Equipment: Bat, (Balls/Tee optional) Purpose: Establish proper timing and power with the lead side of the body.

Description: Hit an imaginary ball, or off a tee or during soft toss. When executing swings with the lead hand, the hitter should concentrate on keeping the hand above the plane of the ball. If the lead hand is under the plane of the ball the result is usually a pop out, strike out, or fly out. The hitter must also turn the hips quickly for proper timing and power. The front elbow should not extend fully before contact with the ball since that produces a slow bat due to an excess of arm arc in the swing. ("Casting the bat").

9 By concentrating on keeping the lead hand on top of the ball and turning the hips quickly, a hitter can establish timing and power with the lead side of the body. Both hands should snap straight into the ball at precisely the same instant establishing proper bat speed and control. MULTI-PHASE OFFENSIVE DRILL Equipment: Bats, Balls, Gloves Purpose: Develop offensive skills Description: First Round 1. Begin round with a runner on first base 2. Have defensive players at all positions

3. Runner on first takes a lead, the best they can get. 4. Pitcher goes to the stretch and makes one play on the runner at first, then throws a pitch to the hitter.

5. The first hitter bunts, (the runner on 1st will advance to 2nd on the bunt then rotate a defensive or to the end of the hitting line). On hit two the hitter will run it out, then stay at first. The pitcher will repeat one play on the runner, and then pitch to the next hitter who will bunt. This pattern repeats until all the players have rotated through. Second Round 1. Begin round two with a runner on second. 2. Pitcher makes a play on the runner one time, using middle infielders to cover.

3. Hitter will bunt two pitches, the 1st sacrifices the runner to third, the bunt second squeezes the runner home, the hitter

10 goes to second and the repeat this process through all the players. Round Three 1. Runners begin on first.

2. Runner breaks from 1st base on the 1st pitch to the hitter and goes all the way to 3rd base.

3. The hitter tries to take the pitch to right field. If they execute the hit and run properly, they may be rewarded with an extra hit. After they hit two or three successfully they run the next hit out an stay at 1st base. The purpose of the drill is to teach situational hitting and give the player an understanding of how to approach these situations. Allows players to understand the team concept of baseball and how a team can manufacture runs. HIP TURNING DRILL Equipment: Bat, Glove Purpose: Development of quicker hips and the relationship between hip speed and the entire swing. Description: Place a bat behind the waist, horizontal to the ground, the glove is used as the home plate so the player can get the proper orientation. While holding the ends of the bat in the hands assume a normal batting stance and watch an imaginary pitch being delivered. Execute a stride and a quick turn using the bat to help turn the hips faster. Finish in the proper contact position. HIT AND RUN GAME Purpose: Give players specific game situation training. Description: The team is divided into two squads. Runners are placed on different bases prior to each inning. The teams play an inner

11 squad game with each player going to the plate in a hit and run situation. Use regular defensive and offensive rules. GOLF BALL TOSS Equipment: Plastic golf balls, broom stick handles cut bat length appropriate for age. (29"-30" for little league, 32"-34" for older players). Purpose: Develop eye-hand coordination. Description: Have the players break up into groups of four, one player pitching, one hitting and two fielding, retrieving balls. (Variation: use badminton Birdies) BAT SPEED DRILL Equipment: Bats, fungo bat, balls, bat donut Purpose: Develop bat speed Description: Put donut weight on a regular bat; hit eight pitches (overload). Hit eight baseballs with the fungo bat (underload). Hit eight baseballs with a regular bat. Conduct this drill in soft toss situation. Doing two set 2-3 times per week. In about 4-6 weeks a positive increase in bat speed should occur. HITTING MOTION DRILL Equipment: Balls, Batting gloves, Hitting net Purpose: To teach hitting mechanics, develop quick hands Description:

STATION 1:

1. Top hand should hold bottom thumb to simulate holding a bat. Top hand should also hold a ball. Throw the ball into the net

12 simulating hits in all direction (pull, middle, opposite field). The throw should cause the arms to extend and roll the wrists to attain a down and out or in swing. 2. The "slap" technique involves two players. Have one player kneel in front of the hitter with a hand outstretched into the strike zone. The hitter then swings at the outstretched hand and slaps it with both hands. This drill helps the hitter keep the front shoulder in.

3. The hitter that "sweeps" the bat, stick a batting glove under the front arm pit to ensure that the swing stays closed and the batter does not fly open.

STATION 2: 1. Rapid fire: Use three balls and soft toss them immediately upon contact, one right after another. This develops quick hands. 2. Fastball Drill: Soft toss but from a distance and with more speed. Tosser stands to the side of the batter and about 10 feet away and tosses underhand with a little bit more on the ball.

3. Back feed extension: Soft toss from behind the batter. Tosser stands 5 feet directly behind the hitter and tosses the ball into the strike zone. The hitter can look at the tosser for the 1st few tosses, but then must look forward and hit "blindly". This develops quick hands to the ball in the strike zone.

13 BUNTING

REACTION DRILL Purpose: To aid players in moving quickly from the hitting position to the bunting position.

Description: Spread a number of hitters/bunters 4' apart in a semicircle around the coach. Players start in the hitting position, then on command drop into the bunting position. Coaching points: Emphasize quickness, stop each time and check the fundamentals: feet position, knees, hands, barrel position. Later, the coach rather than a command can go into a pitching motion and the players can react to the delivery. Although "squaring" to bunt is still widely taught in a sacrifice situation, players should master the pivot bunting which is the preferred technique at upper levels.

ONE HANDED BUNTING DRILL Equipment: Bats, Balls Purpose: Improve bunting skills

Description: Players get into groups of 3 or 4 for bunting. The drill is to grip the bat with the top hand at the balance point of the bat, then bunt the ball that way. All the things the coach tries to teach such as

14 grip, bat angle, "catch the ball with the bat", etc happen naturally just by bunting one handed. It is a simple finishing job to add the bottom hand to steer the ball, and leads easily into drag and push bunts. Just a few minutes of this will produce the desired skills and leaves more time for hitting.

BUNTING TECHNIQUE DRILL Equipment: Bails, Bats, Pitching Screen Purpose: Improve player's bunting techniques Description: Place a protective screen in the middle of the pitching area. Two pitchers and two catchers, one pitcher pitches toward home and one pitches toward second. Each pitcher has a bucket of balls, each catcher has an empty bucket for efficiency and the hitters split up evenly between the two pitcher/catchers. Each of the first hitters bunt and run toward first and third respectively, then jogs on the end of the opposite line. Allows for lots of repetitions. Coaches can observe and make corrections as necessary.

FOUR CORNERS DRILL Equipment: Balls, Bats Description: Divide players into four groups and use each base and home plate. One player kneels pitching about 10' from the hitter, one player acts as catcher and the other players field, the hitter bunts five balls in different ways, one to first, third, drag, push and sacrifice. Players rotate until everyone has done the drill. Allows for multiple repetitions and the coach can observe and adjust techniques.

BUNT PLACEMENT DRILL Equipment: Four cones, bucket of balls, bat Purpose: To work on keeping the sacrifice bunt away from the pitcher Description: Set up two cones down the 1st baseline about halfway between home and the mound. One should be about 3' inside the

15 baseline, the other about 8' to 10' inside the line toward the mound. Set cones up the same on the 3id base side. Coach throws from a shortened distance to make sure there are good pitches to bunt. The idea is to stop or push the ball between the cones. There is no need to make these bunts "perfect" just trying to make the pitcher leave the mound to field the ball. The hitter should pivot to bunt rather than "squaring." The hitter starts with the bat at the top of the strike zone with the barrel of the bat above the hands at an angle, bending the knees for lower pitches and leaving the pitches above the hands go. Hitter should give with the pitch to deaden the ball and use the bottom hand to guide the bat and direct the ball. Each player can have a specific number of tries and they can make a competition out of how may they get between the cones. Coaching keys: If the player pops the ball up the barrel of the bat is probably below the hands at the moment of contact. The hitter may be bunting pitches that are too high, or starting the bat too low and bring it up to meet the ball, or not bending the knees to get to lower pitches. If the ball is bunted back at the pitcher, the hitter is not using the lower hand to angle the bat correctly. If the hitter is bunting foul balls, they are most likely not placing the bat in front of home plate.

16 INFIELD DRILLS

KEY INFIELD POINTS 1. Create a wide base with the feet 2. Butt stays down.

3. Hands are out in front; see the ball into the glove. 4. Relax wrists; fingers point down and have soft contact with the ground. INFIELDER'S WARM-UP DRILLS Purpose: Warm up develop proper techniques for fielding Description: 1. Glove hand/backhand: Infielders partner up, roll the ball to each other to their immediate left or right and practice the proper forehand and backhand techniques. 2. Pop-flies: Infielders partner up, one player throws the ball over the other player's head making them open step back keeping eye contact with the ball, square the body up under the ball to make the catch.

17 3. Cover drill: All infielders line up at second base and shortstop positions. A player in front of the base rolls the ball to either 2B or SS who in turn throws to the opposite player covering the bag who then simulates the double play pivot. The players should practice delivering the ball to the covering player on their left breast. The covering player should practice approaching the base with the proper foot and using the base for momentum or protection from the base runner. THROWING AFTER THE CATCH DRILL Equipment: Bucket of balls, three cones Purpose: To understand and apply the concept of using the body's momentum to make stronger more accurate throws. Description: Set up three cones several feet apart, placed in line toward the target to where the throw will be made (easiest set up is 5 - 4 force out at second base simulation). The fielder sets up with the right foot next to the first cone in a good fielding position (wide base, butt down, hands out in front). The coach rolls the ball to the fielder shuffling toward the second cone, releasing it toward the target and follows the throw past the third cone. The fielder should stay low and not stand up after fielding the ball. This drill reinforces the concept of catching the ground ball first, generating momentum toward the target, throwing the ball and following the throw. Replace the fielder catching the ball with a screen and turn the drill into an accuracy contest. Coaching Keys: Fielders who are not throwing the ball accurately are likely dropping their elbow below their shoulder or peeling off away from the target before following the throw all the way past the third cone. Add a cone and make the fielder follow the throw all the way through past the fourth cone to fix the latter problem. Fielders throwing the ball too high or too low are likely standing up before shuffling and throwing. Remember stay low and go low. The first movement upon catching the ball is toward the target. Fielders

18 should shuffle toward the target, keeping their knees bent in an athletic position instead of standing up. This keeps the head, shoulders, and eyes level and makes it easier to focus on the target.

BACKHAND THROWING DRILL Equipment: Bucket of balls, cones, gloves Purpose: To practice generating momentum back toward the target after backhanding a groundball.

Description: Tow cones are set up and the fielder sets up just to the right of the first cone. The coach rolls the ball to the fielder's backhand. The fielder backhands the ball, stops his momentum, shuffles back to the first cone throws to the target and continues past the second cone after the throw. Shuffling back toward the target is a difficult concept for young players and should be stressed. This will eliminate off balance throwing. The ball should be fielded out in front of the body allowing the fielder to see it completely into the glove.

SHORT TO SECOND UNDERHAND FLIP DRILL Equipment: bails, cones (optional for older players), gloves (optional for younger players) Purpose: To simulate and practice the underhand flip from the second baseman to the shortstop

19 SECOND TO SHORT UNDERHAND FLIP DRILL Equipment: balls, cones (optional for older players), gloves (optional for younger players) Purpose: To simulate and practice the underhand flip from the shortstop to the second baseman

Description: Use the cones to set up a box approximately 25' apart (closer for younger players and not necessary for older players). Four players stand at each corner with a fifth player standing behind one of the corners. The first toss originates from the corner with two players. No gloves are worn the use of bare hands enhances concentration. Each player faces the corner to their left, the player shuffles or crosses over flipping the ball to the right leaving the hand high and following through to the where the ball was flipped. Each player catches the ball first, then generates momentum, tosses and moves to the next corner. Stress maintaining a stiff wrist, and avoid turning the body completely toward the target, the arm must stay in front of the body at all times. Follow the flip to the next corner Coaching Tip: Players might tend to turn and bring their hand behind their leg to execute the flip. This takes extra time and makes it harder for the shortstop to pick up the where the toss is coming from. To avoid this, remind the players that they are catching the ball out in front of their bodies, so that is where the flip should be made from. "Show the shortstop the ball." 4-6/6-4 DRILL Equipment: Bucket of balls, second base, gloves, first baseman (optional) Purpose: Practice making force outs at second base utilizing the underhand flip, overhand throw and turning the double play. Description: One group lines up at the shortstop position. Another group lines up at the second base position. The coach rolls a ball to the first player in line at the shortstop position, the first second-

Ii] baseman runs to the bag, places their left foot on the bag, and holds both hands up at chest level to receive the baseball. The shortstop executes an underhanded flip to the second baseman's left breast; the second baseman takes his right foot toward the ball and catches it. The fielder returns the ball to the coach and each player goes to the end of the opposite line. After several repetitions the coach switches to rolling the ball to the second baseman. The shortstop covers the base. The change is that the shortstop places his right foot on the base and steps toward the ball with his left foot.

A first baseman may be added to the drill as the players improve. Also, the coach can roll the ball to the left or right of the fielder. Longer distances from the base require the fielder to throw the ball overhand. The ball should always be "shown" to the receiving fielder and thrown at the left breast (as the players get older all middle infielders will be right handed). The fielder covering the base must get there fast enough to be stationary targets for their teammate. Coaching keys: The most common problem is also typical in game situations: the covering player does not get to the base quickly enough and is a moving target which compromises accuracy, and the ball must be caught on the run. Both these situations increase the difficulty of the play. Coach should be positioned between the fielder receiving the roll and home plate. This keeps their shoulders squared up and requires them to make a full turn toward the bag to deliver the ball, most accurately simulating the muscle memory required for game play.

FIRST BASE DRILL

Equipment: Bucket of balls, empty bucket, 1st base bag, gloves (ist baseman's mitt)

Purpose: Develop proper mechanics when receiving throws at 1st base.

21 Description: Fielders line up in foul territory near first base with the empty bucket. The coach selects different angle in the infield to throw from the full bucket of balls. The first fielder takes the proper position at first base, goes to the bag at the coach's direction place the heel of their throwing side foot (right foot for right handed throwers, left foot for left handed throwers) on the base. As the coach delivers the ball the fielder takes his glove and glove side foot directly at the ball. The ball should hit the glove at the same time the glove side foot lands. This prevents/teaches the fielder not to stretch too soon. Coaching keys: Stress that the fielder gets to the bag quickly, stand tall, square their shoulders to the fielder delivering the ball, and take the glove and glove side foot to the ball together. Remind them not to stretch prematurely. Coaches can also use this drill to work on short hops and other poor throws. If you are short on balls the first baseman can return the ball to the coach, this tends to slow the repetitions down. SHORT HOP DRILL (Works well in pregame/practice warm up) Equipment: Balls, players with gloves Purpose: Practice catching and controlling bad/short hop ground balls. Description: Divide the fielders up in pairs, facing (squared off) each other at about 15'. Have one fielder with the ball gently toss a ground ball to their partner so that it takes one bounce just in front of the other fielder. The receiving fielder should be in the ready position, and upon receiving the ball draw their hands back towards their body. The body and the hands flow with the bail. The receiver now becomes the tosser. This drill should go back and forth and last between 5 and 10 minutes. The players should be throwing the ball lightly with a short hop bounce and not be trying to trick or throw the ball by their partner.

22 As the fielders become more proficient, they can move back throw hard and make a competition out of effort. They should still be trying to deliver a throw that their partner should be able to handle. If you make a competition out of this drill, losers can run a lap or posts. LATERAL MOVEMENT DRILL Equipment: Six balls between first and second and six balls between second and third. Purpose: To improve lateral movement and defensive fielding posture. Description: Line three to five fielders up between the balls three and four on each side of the infield. The fielders assume a good defensive position, knees bent, butt low, and hands out. On command they take a cross over step simulating the fielding of the first ball to their right. They recover to the starting position and repeat the process to the left, recover and repeat until they have simulated the fielding of all the balls. More balls may be added to give the fielders farther to respond as they progress in their abilities. Coaching keys: Fielders must maintain a low position (center of gravity) while moving to the ball then assume a good defensive position upon getting to the ball.

23 OUTFIELD DRILLS

FIELDING FLY BALLS Key Points 1. Get to the spot where the ball will land quickly, do not drift. 2. Watch the ball into the glove and catch the ball above the head using two hands whenever possible.

3. Try to move slightly forward when the catch is made.

24 PASS PATTERNS DRILL Equipment: Bucket of bails, Gloves Purpose: To develop proper crossover step and drop steps and learn to catch fly balls on the run. Description: A coach or a player (pitchers can use this drill as long toss) serves as "quarterback. The fielder give a proper (stiff wrist, zero rotation on the ball) underhanded toss to the coach the uses a crossover or drop step in the appropriate direction before running the designated "pass pattern." The "quarterback" throws the ball high enough into the air for the fielder to run under it and make a one- handed catch. If you have two coaches the lines can proceed in opposite direction and the goes to the end of the next line after making the catch. The fielder retains the ball and each fielder has their own ball to speed up the drill. Coaching Keys: The crossover step is the most efficient method of moving laterally on the baseball field. To execute the step, a player pivots the foot nearest to where the ball is traveling while at the same time crossing the other foot over the first foot in the direction of the ball. If the player is picking up the foot nearest the ball first and then crossing over, stop them immediately without throwing the ball and start over. It is essential to train this muscle memory sequence properly, it is very hard to break this bad habit at the upper levels and often cost a player an opportunity to play at those levels. The drop step is a combination of a step back toward the ball hit over the head followed by a crossover in the direction of the bail. Again, the initial move must be executed correctly in one motion without shuffling the feet. Correct this action immediately. TENNIS BALL FLY BALL DRILL Equipment: A bucket of tennis balls, tennis racket, gloves Purpose: To allow players to learn to concentrate on fly balls and develop soft hands at the catch.

25 Description: Like any outfield fly ball drill line the players up in the outfield and hit them fly balls with the tennis balls. At first do not strike the balls to high in the air (balls can be thrown as well at lower levels), but after the players become use to the extra care they need to catch the tennis balls start driving the ball high into the air. Coaching Keys: The use of tennis balls helps the players overcome fear of being struck by the ball. They are also very lively and the player must learn to catch the ball with two hands above their heads and to give a little with the ball at the moment of contact with the glove. This action translates very nicely in the actual fielding of fly balls in game situations. Players that master catching tennis balls quickly begin properly fielding fly balls. GROUND BALL DRILLS Equipment: Bucket of balls, gloves Purpose: To learn to field (charge) ground balls in a controlled environment. Description: Outfielders line up and the coach rolls the ball on the ground toward them. The fielder should get to the spot in front of the ball quickly then break down into a good fielding position to receive the ball. As they progress the balls can be throw harder. Coaching Keys: Like infielders, the outfielder should field ground balls with a wide base, the butt down, and the hands out in front of the body. The outfielders should be comfortable with the proper fundamentals before fielding hit balls. Young outfielders have a tendency to "run through" ground balls. They are usually running near to full speed when they get close to the ball, the purpose of the drill is to learn to slow down and field the ball quickly and cleanly to keep runners from advancing further. Fielding the ball cleanly is the number one priority. A fielder should come to nearly a complete stop to perform this action properly. The outfielder should always be reminded that they are the last line of defense and must stop the baseball.

26 COMMUNICATIONS DRILL Equipment: Gloves, Balls Purpose: To understand the importance and mechanics of proper outfield communications.

Description: Outfielders form two lines about 20' apart. The first fielders in each line step forward. The coach throws the fly balls between the two fielders, who must communicate and make the play. The fielder making the play on the ball must yell, "Mine" at least three times. ("Mine, mine, mine"). The second fielder backs up the first. This drill may be run with soft balls for younger players, a cut off can be used for more advanced fielders positioned deeper in the outfield and makes the throw to the cut off, or the drill can be coupled with the drop step or pass pattern drills to add another dimension. Coaching keys: Fielders should be advised that whenever uncertainty arises about who has called for the ball, they must continue calling for the ball. Older players can be divided up by position, using three players, and the player designated centerfielder is given the responsibility to direct the other fielders. First names or position works better than any other phrase. "Mine" or "yours" are often confused. The centerfielder should be taught to catch any ball that they can get to, a fielder should always attempt to call the catch and make the catch if they can for it.

27 CATCHER'S DRILLS

PRIMARY CATCHING SKILLS DRILL Equipment: Balls, Catcher's gear Purpose: Develop proper skills at the catcher position. Description: 1. Put the catcher in their stance at home plate, with no glove, 3 balls arranged in a shallow triangle. The first ball is dead center behind the plate, the second ball is to the right and forward of the first ball and the third ball is to the left and forward of the first ball. Balls 2 and 3 are even with each other. The catcher falls forward to the ball on their hands, and then brings both knees to the hands. Repeat this with all the balls several times. Remember on the outside ball the catcher must angle their body in to deflect the ball in front of the plate.

2. In the stance, with the glove. The catcher puts the glove to the ball, and then brings his knees to the glove. Repeat this move with each ball until it becomes easy and second nature.

28 3. In full gear, short toss tennis balls. The catcher blocks with the glove to the ground/ball then knees to the ball technique.

4. Full distance tennis ball blocking. 5. Full distance hard ball medium speed throws to areas called by coach. 6. Full distance hard throws to called areas.

7. Full distance hard throws to random areas with no prior warning. Coaching Keys: Because the two primary skills for high school catchers are blocking and throwing, these skills take the longest to develop, and require the most time and effort. The blocking technique key phrase is, "Glove to the bail, knees to the glove." Catchers should work on this drill regularly in repetitions of about 50 blocks divided up at about 10 at a time until the technique becomes second nature. Remember a catcher's goal is not to catch these pitches but to block and control them in front of the plate. Quickness is the key to keeping the runners at their base. BLOCKOUT DRILL (Catcher warm up/pre-season) Equipment: Full gear for each catcher, balls, tennis balls if limited on catching gear. Purpose: Warm up, develop quickness in blocking low pitches Description: Catchers pair up across from each other and throw short hops to each other, working on dropping into the proper blocking position. FOUL BALL DRILL Equipment: Mitt, Helmet/Mask, Full Gear (optional), Fungo (optional)

29 Purpose: To improve the technique of catching fouls at the plate. Description: Coach or another catcher can through or hit pop ups at the plate. The fielding catcher starts in the proper catching crouch. When the ball is released or struck the catcher locates the ball and gets into the proper fielding position with their back to the infield and catches the pop up. Coaching key: It is important that the catcher gets turned to the infield because a ball spins off the bat with a rotation that takes it toward the infield and is likely to pop out of the glove if they fail to get turned. The catcher can shed the mask and toss it out of the way after that locate the ball or in the case of the "hockey" style mask the catcher can just leave it on. GLOVE ROLL DRILL

Equipment: Balls, Mitt, Mask Purpose: Teach the technique of rolling the glove that automatically relaxes the catcher's wrist and hand for receiving the ball.

Description: Coach/Another Catcher throws the ball from 20-30'. As the ball is released the catcher moves the mitt 1/4 turn, bring it parallel to the ground. The mitt and wrist relax as it is placed in a position to respond to the ball where ever it comes into the plate and makes it easier to react to the pitch. SOFT HANDS DRILL

Equipment: Mask, Tennis balls Purpose: Improve relaxation of hands when receiving the ball.

Description: Catchers face off approximately 20-30' apart in the proper catching position and give with the bare hands as they catch the ball.

30 TWO KNEE THROWING DRILL

Equipment: Mitt, Ball Purpose: Improve arm and shoulder strength for throwing (catcher)

Description: Two catchers face off at 30' apart on both knees. After throwing the ball back and forth for a period of time, they move back 10' and continue for as long as necessary/ desired. Emphasize should be on throwing the ball overhand from the ear. SCOOP AND LOCATE DRILL Equipment: Mitt, Balls, Full Equipment (optional) Purpose: Improve quickness in fielding bunts/Can be used as warm up. Description: Catcher crouches in proper position with coach/second catcher behind him and another coach/player at first base. The coach rolls the ball out in front of the plate to simulate a bunt. The catcher explodes from the stance, circling the ball using the proper techniques, scoops the ball with both his bare hand and the mitt, making the throw to first base. The different angles require the catcher to approach the ball, set his feet and shoulders before delivering the throw to first. QUICK DRILLS Equipment: Balls, Mitt, Chest protector, Full Equipment (optional)

Purpose: Improvement of ball handling Description:

1. Quick Feet Drill: Catcher 1 throws the ball hard from 20-30' away from catcher 2. Catcher 2 takes a jab step to the left or right attempting to get the middle of the body in front of the ball.

31 2. Quick Hands Drill: Catcher 1 throws the ball hard from 20-30' away from catcher 2. The balls are thrown high, low, inside, and outside of the plate.

3. Quick Release Drill: Catchers are positioned 60-70' apart and throw the ball to each other playing "hard catch." They work on taking the ball out of the mitt quickly, utilizing the proper footwork while emphasizing a quick release on the throws. The ball and the mitt should be pulled together to the catcher's ear as they turn their bodies to make the throw. Coaching Keys: Above the AA level the catcher becomes the most important player on your team. If your catcher has not learned to block the ball, throw out base runners and receive the ball in a position to allow the umpire the best view of the pitch, it does not matter if the rest of your team is good or not. The sooner catchers are taught their responsibility for running (quarterbacking) the game, the better they will be at the upper levels.

32 THROWING DRILLS I

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Ii LONG TOSS DRILL Equipment: Gloves, Balls. Purpose: Strengthen Throwing Arm and Accuracy

33 Description: Most important pre-season ritual. Begin at about 40' (depending upon age) increase 10 to 15' each week to about 250' always teaching basic throwing fundamentals. HOP STEP THROWING DRILL

Equipment: Gloves, Balls Purpose: Teach and improve the hop step throw for outfielders

Description: Outfielders are divided into partners about 100' apart (again dependent upon age). The throw the ball back and forth bouncing it at an easy distance in front of their partner, who fields the ball and takes a hop step and returns the bail in the same manner to his partner. After a set number of these types of throws the partners switch to throwing the ball approximately head high, still utilizing the proper hop step on returning the bail. In the last round the players throw high flies to each other and continue to work on their hop step throw. ONE KNEE THROWING DRILL Equipment: Gloves, Balls Purpose: Develop arm and shoulder strength for throwing.

Description: Each player kneels, facing each other at about 10' with right handed players on their right knee with the left leg up and out in front, while lefthanders are on their left knee with the right in front). The players throw the ball back and forth using proper throwing techniques, turning at the waist, keeping the arm up, the glove hand out in front point at the target and the proper follow through. The receiving player holds his hands up giving the thrower a proper target. This drill is used at all levels. Younger players may use tennis balls and no gloves to teach two handed catching as well as proper throwing. HIT AND COVER DRILL

Equipment: Gloves, Balls

34 Purpose: Throwing accuracy, warm up. Description: With the infield in position a ball is hit to the 3rd baseman who makes the play, throws the ball to 1st baseman covering 1st base, who throws the ball to the catcher, who throws the ball to the 3rd baseman covering 3d base. The 3rd baseman, then brings the ball back to the catcher. This process is repeated around the infield. Coaching Keys: If the throws are made properly the infielders are getting their feet set and getting to their fielding positions quickly. The speed of this drill can increase as the fielders improve their quickness and accuracy. TAG AND THROW DRILL Equipment: Balls, Gloves, Infield Purpose: Practice making tags and throw after the tag. Description: This drill can be done with or without base runners. The catcher throws the to the third baseman, who quickly lays a tag in front of the base, the throw can go around the infield to the left, then the right, then across the diamond from catcher to 2'' base an so forth increasing the speed as the players improve. When runners are added the runner breaks from first, the catcher throws them out the shortstop tags the runner as a runner breaks fro third to home and the ball is delivered to the plate. A runner can then break from 2nd to third and the process repeats. If runners are used they can work on their sliding technique. EIGHT STEP THROWING DRILL Equipment: Balls, Gloves Description: Eight steps to better throwing.

1. The players stand with feet about a shoulders width apart. They put their throwing arm up at a 90 degree angle, holding their

35 elbow with their glove and throw the ball to their partner using only a wrist action/flip.

2. The players sit with their legs spread with their arms in the same position (90 degree angle), only this time they use their elbow and wrist to throw the ball to their partner.

3. The players remain sitting, only now they rotate at the hips, turning the upper torso to throw the ball. There is no follow through at this point, but emphasis in placed on using the glove hand for directing the throw.

4. The players now move to one knee. They rotate the upper torso and throw the ball with emphasis on both the use of the glove to direct the ball and the follow through across the raised knee.

5. The players now stand with their glove arm closest to their partner, feet a shoulders width apart. Using all of the previous steps, they throw the ball concentrating on follow through without moving the feet.

6. The players now goes to the post position as in pitching (standing sideways with both arms up in the goalpost) bring the hands together, raising the front leg into a balanced position and throw using all the previously described techniques.

7. The players now use all the previous steps, spreading out and adding a crow hop throw.

8. Lastly, the players go to long toss for pitchers, catchers and outfielders. Infielders can do either long toss or "quick" toss standing about 10' apart and throwing as quickly as possible back and forth. Emphasis should be on the quick release and following/ concentrating on the ball entering and leaving the glove.

36 PITCHING DRILLS

KEY POINTS Focus on the five key links in the pitching process: 1. Feet - take a small step back with the non-throwing foot, keeping the weight over the stationary foot, which is turned parallel to and touching the rubber. 2. Balance position- non-throwing leg comes up with the thigh parallel to the ground, glove is at the waist level, torso is slightly forward so that the weight is centered over the pivot foot.

3. Power position- hand above the ball, take the ball down out of the glove and up, in a circular motion, as the front foot strides toward home plate.

37 4. Rotation - the hand goes from above the ball to behind it to the release point is approached with the elbow above the shoulder.

5. Follow-through - End up in a good fielding position: The follow through takes care of itself if the other mechanics are correct. Coaches should not be too picky about a perfect follow through if the pitches throwing results a consistent. However, a good follow through aids in accuracy and speed of the throw.

ONE-KNEE DRILL Equipment: Gloves, Balls Purpose: To introduce the play to proper throwing techniques, particularly arm action. Description: Players drop their throwing side knee to the ground with the opposite knee up and play catch at short distances using a four seam throw. They should concentrate on taking the ball down, out, and up from the glove, keeping the elbow above the shoulder. The hand is on top of the ball as the arm comes forward. Players do not throw hard. They should be constantly checking their grip, hand, elbow, and arm motion. Their front shoulder should be pointed at the target, hips rotate, as the arms come forward, and the ball is released while the elbow remains above the shoulder. Coaching Keys: This drill breaks down the player's arm action and works on keeping the elbow at the proper level. Many young players turn their hand so that it's under the ball before they bring the ball forward. Often this is called "pie throwing" with the palm up. This is the direct opposite of the proper way to throw a baseball. For p;layers the do this, have them stop the throwing motion just before they bring their arm forward and check to see that the hands is on top of the ball and that the ball is pointing straight back. Other players will allow their elbow to drop below the shoulder a hitting tee may be added to the drill to fix this problem. Set the tee up behind the player with the ball slightly elevated and make them take the ball off the tee and throw it without dropping the elbow.

38 BALANCE POSITION DRILL Equipment: Glove, Ball, Mound (optional) Purpose: To aid the player in understanding how to gather energy at the balance position before they explode to the plate. Description: The pitcher throws from a mound or rubber set up at a shortened distance. They start their motion from the stretch, lifting the front leg and pausing for a 3-count (one thousand one, one thousand two, one thousand three) at the balance position (upper and lower body come together, leg is slightly closed with the butt check pointing to the catcher, the glove is slightly above the knee and the upper body is not leaning back). On the count of 3, the pitcher strides forward and releases the ball. Coaching Key: This drill makes the pitcher gather their energy at the balance position so the body and arm can come forward together toward home plate. POWER POSITION DRILL Equipment: Baseball, Glove, Mound (optional) Purpose: To develop proper grip and arm action. Description: Pitcher creates a wide base with their feet and hold the ball in a four-seam grip. They then shift their weight to the backside before moving forward. The hands break, the weight goes back. The power position is assumed (check as necessary) with the hand above the ball with the fingers pointed away from the target. Weight is back with the elbow above the shoulder. The front shoulder points at the target. The hand shifts from above the ball to behind the ball as the arm moves forward through rotation and the ball is delivered to the plate (it does not need to be thrown hard). The follow-through takes place with the back foot staying in contact with the rubber. Pitcher rotates on the back foot so the hips turn and the front toe points toward the target.

39 Coaching Keys: Variations of this drill can be used at all levels. The drill is simplified to for younger players to stress direction, grip, hand above the ball, the elbow above the shoulder. For older players the process becomes more advanced and used to troubleshoot mechanical problems. Such as: 1. Short-arming: Start in the finish position with the throwing arm extended forward as if following through. Take the pitchers weight all the way back through the power position before finishing to stretch out the throwing motion. 2. Getting pitches up: Have the catcher shorten up with the pitcher throwing from the mound. To throw downhill from the power position, the pitcher must get the elbow up and stay on top the ball.

3. Long-striders: Again, with the catcher shortened up the pitcher will throw from the mound. If the stride is too long the pitcher will not be able to compensate to get downhill in time to throw a strike and the ball will stay up.

4. Breaking balls, off-speed pitches: Between starts, pitchers struggling with their grips, mechanics, or control can practice their breaking balls and off-speed pitches from the power position to get a better feel for them and make proper corrections.

LONG TOSS DRILL Equipment: Ball, Glove Purpose: To develop arm strength and lengthen the throwing motion. Description: The pitchers warm up them throw from a distance that is a challenge. Coaching Keys: The players should concentrate on keeping the elbow above the shoulder and extending the arm out toward the target. The

40 ball should travel in a very slight arc. This drill is good for all players and should be done several times per week as a throwing regiment. GOALPOST DRILL Purpose: Teaches pitching with the lower body. Description: Players can throw from in front of mound to a catcher or to each other as a warm up drill. The pitcher stands with their feet spread wider than their shoulders, and the weight is on the back foot. Before they throw, they raise both arms up, like a goalpost from the side,. As they throw, they push off the back leg.

41 'I

BASE RUNNING DRILLS

BASE RUNNING RELAY Equipment: Bases Purpose: Develop good base running technique/ Conditioning. Description: Team divided into two squads that is then split in half. Half of the squad stays on the foul line (down the line a little bit in the outfield) and the other half of the squad will face them from centerfield. The objected is for the players to switch sides tapping their teammate before they can move. The first team to switch all of their players wins. The drill can be run backwards as well.

42 RUN THROUGH FIRST DRILL Equipment: Bases, Bat (optional) Purpose: Teach proper technique for running through first or making the turn toward second, concentration on coach's signal.

Description: Players line up about 10' from home plate. Each in turn comes to the plate and simulates a swing and hit, then runs to first base. The coach gives them direction to run through the bag, or turn and hold or, go on to second. Coaching Key: The player should not slow down if holding and should run through the base looking to the right to pick up any possible over throw that might allow them to advance to second. This drill can be repeated several times and can also be used for conditioning and evaluating speed and running ability. RUN AND STEAL DRILL Equipment: Diamond with bases Purpose: To teach/develop aggressive base running, practice sliding/returning to the base head first. Description: The runners start at home plate. They swing, run to first base rounding it properly taking a wide aggressive turn toward second then dive back into the base. The runner then gets up quickly, takes an aggressive lead, they take off stealing second base and sliding in. They repeat the process stealing third. They take their lead off third base in foul territory. Dive back into the base coming back in on the foul line. The player gets up and sprints home. (no sliding at the plate). The next player then goes.