Outfield Drills

Hanson Little League Player Fundamentals and Drills

Scott Sawtelle 3/1/2010

A special thanks to Mike Pakalnis of the Kingston Youth Baseball League who provided a vast majority of content, insight and ideas for the document.

Table of Contents Hitting Fundamentals: ...... 4 Selecting a bat...... 4 Getting in the box and batting stance...... 4 The Swing ...... 5 Teaching the language of hitting: ...... 6 Hitting Drills...... 6 Proper Stance ...... 6 Pivot Foot...... 6 Soft toss (from the side)...... 7 Tee-Work ...... 8 Zoning a Pitch and Pitch Counts (Minors/Majors/Seniors, etc.) ...... 9 Be a patient and aggressive hitter (Minors, Majors, Seniors, etc.) ...... 10 Quiet hands ...... 10 Soft hands, fingertips and bat action...... 10 Bunting (Minors/Majors/Seniors, etc.) ...... 11 Base running Fundamentals:...... 12 On The Bases ...... 12 Run Through First Base (ONLY) ...... 12 Ready to run position (Instructional, Pee Wee, Minors, Majors) ...... 13 Don’t watch the ball (Head on a swivel) ...... 14 Stay in the Base path...... 14 Force or No Force Play...... 14 Tagging Up ...... 15 Rounding the bases ...... 15 Belly Out or Banana Turn...... 16 Know the situation – how many outs?...... 16 Sliding...... 16 Secondary Leads ...... 17 Running Drills...... 17 Run Through First...... 17 Running the bases: ...... 17 Body and Mind Warm-up for Instructional level players...... 18 Run down, Pickle or “Monkey in the Middle” ...... 18 Throwing Fundamentals:...... 18 The Grip...... 18 Get to a throwing position...... 19 Crow hop and throw...... 19 The “Shuffle throw” or underhand flip...... 20 Hitting the cutoff...... 21 Advanced Throwing Concepts:...... 21 Pivot (advanced) ...... 21

What NOT to do...... 21 Throwing Drills: ...... 22 Nose, Toes and Throws...... 22 Short toss to long toss ...... 22 Accuracy Counts...... 22 Hit My Mitt...... 22 Around the Horn ...... 23 Cutoff drill ...... 23 Fielding Fundamentals:...... 23 Ready position ...... 23 Creep-in...... 24 Ground balls...... 24 Backhanding a Ground ball ...... 25 Bare hand a ball that is stationary...... 26 Double Play Depth...... 26 Double plays (Shortstop) ...... 26 Double plays (Second Base) ...... 27 Pop ups - Call it Up...... 27 Fly balls and pop-ups...... 28 Fielding Drills: ...... 28 Roll Drill ...... 28 Infield/outfield practice...... 28 Starting Right...... 29 Fly balls – “Call it” ...... 29 Circle of Doom ...... 29 Double play flip drill...... 30 Outfield Drills:...... 30 Over-the-Shoulder Football Drill...... 30 Athletic Plays Drill – ESPN Hi-Lights ...... 30 Live Fly Balls...... 31 Live Ground balls ...... 31 Catching Fundamentals:...... 31 Catcher’s Stance:...... 31 Blocking Drills:...... 32 Catcher Throwing Drills: ...... 33 Pitching Fundamentals:...... 33 Running a practice...... 37

Hitting Fundamentals:

Selecting a bat

The starting point for any hitter is finding the right bat size. Have the player grip the bat at the end of the handle and lift it with one arm, fully extended, straight out from their body. They should be able to hold it level with the ground for twenty seconds without wobbling or shaking. If not, find them a lighter bat.

Getting in the box and batting stance

The grip should be in the fingers not the palms, 2nd set of knuckles should nearly align to ensure the bat is in the fingers. The player should be able to take both thumbs off the bat and still have a firm hold of the bat. Front foot in middle of the plate About shoe size away from plate edge Feet shoulder width or slightly wider, weight on balls of feet not heels Knees slightly bent, 60% of weight on back foot, Hands together on bat, hands by the ear (approx. 6inches away) like you are talking on the phone. Shoulders perpendicular to the pitcher, relaxed (not uptight/hunched), and FLAT! Bat pointing upward slightly (never down over the shoulder) and halfway to dugout (Perpendicular to the ground is not good either) Point knob of bat at opposite batters box

The Swing

Eye on the ball at all times – no distractions The Stride – the front foot must move toward the pitcher to trigger the weight shift. Don’t step on the plate, stride toward the pitchers mound (Biggest problem is bailing out). The stride does not have to be long, approx 6 inches – but you do need to move it. EMPHASIZE FRONT FOOT FORWARD! 5 S's of the stride: Slow, Soft, Short, Shallow, Straight Shift weight from back foot to front foot Swing in one fluid motion Think “Short to – long through” – this means getting to the ball in the shortest way possible and then allowing a long follow through after contact. Hands are ALWAYS inside the ball Focus on the level swing (Big Zone) – Big zone is the area where contact can be made with the ball usually from the back foot to 12 to 16 inches ahead of the front foot Shoulders should stay relatively FLAT!!! If the shoulders dip, the hands will drop, the barrel drops and you can't stay flat through the zone Pivot on the back foot (Squish a bug). Point your belly button to the pitcher Finish! Complete the swing – 2 hands on bat – all the way around and finish with your back heel pointing to the sky. Bat should finish like a golf swing follow through…hands over the shoulder. A good finish requires balance – check for falling forward or backward. One of the most important aspects of hitting is BALANCE

Emphasize hitting hard ground balls and hard line drives..FLY BALLS ARE NOT GOOD!

Emphasize using the whole field

Make players realize that they can learn from the result: meaning that pop ups are the result of dropping the hands/barrel, balls w/ topspin signify going "around the ball instead of through it", bad balance at the finish means something in our swing went wrong (usually hands)

Realize that everything is connected!! If the backside doesn't explode, the hands can't go forward, and the body compensates by tipping the shoulders and dropping the hands, leading to a BAD result.

Teaching the language of hitting: What is: a single, a double, a triple, a home run, a pop up, a grounder? A line drive, a bunt, a pitcher, a catcher, an out, a grand slam, a fastball, a changeup,

Hitting Drills

Proper Stance

A good training aid at practice can be useful in helping a beginning batter learn the proper stance in the batter's box. Try drawing a line in the dirt in relation to the tee where you want the toes of the batter. This will allow the player to assume the proper batting position with minimal assistance.

Pivot Foot

Let the batters practice pivoting their back foot by pretending to "squish a bug". By pivoting the back foot during their swing, the batter will generate more power using their hips and have fun learning how. “Squishing the bug” is not enough for advanced (Minors/above), as the player continues the swing the pivot foot should actually roll all the way over so that the toe is in contact with the dirt and the heel is pointing to the sky (see illustration of Alex Rodriguez below. Notice his pivot foot is pointing toward the sky and his weight has transferred to his front foot).

All players should be informed of not throwing the bat! They should simply drop the bat once contact is made with the ball!

Soft toss (from the side)

With coach and batter facing each other (far enough away so that the batter cannot hit the coach and the coach about 2-3 feet in front of the batter) the coach underhand flips ball out in front of the batter (just ahead of where front foot lands…ball should be tossed on a line). The batter should work on good form; eyes on the ball and a good balanced finish (squish the bug). Coach waits for batter to set up again before continuing. 10-20 hits per batter are usually good.

NOTE: Soft toss should not be done with baseballs into the backstop – please use wiffle or tennis balls

Tee-Work

Use a 1-2-3-4 approach

Do this after you are balanced. Follow these steps.

1. Turn left shoulder in slightly.

2. Stride directly toward the pitcher - landing softly. Extremely important to keep hands back on the stride. When the front foot lands, the hands should be back.

3. Squash a bug with your back foot, but don't turn (roll) your ankle over, you'll lose balance.

4. Follow through with your swing.

Advanced: There are multiple variations to this drill. If you have a 5 position Tee you can work on different pitch locations and driving the ball to different areas of the field. You can also work on one handed hitting drills (Top hand ONLY, Bottom hand ONLY)

The goal is to use the same swing for every ball.

1. Place your tee on the outside back edge of home plate. Stand next to the plate and make contact following your normal swing. Remember this from Hitting Instruction above? Your batting hand makes a punching motion the lower hand on the bat makes a karate chop. Don't try to hit a home run. Line drives are what you want. Home run power can come later. You'll find that you're driving the ball to the opposite field from where you're standing. If you bat on the left side of the plate, the ball is going to right field.

2. Now move your tee to the front of home plate. This time, when you hit the ball it should head straight out to center field.

3. Finally, place the tee on the inside edge of home plate. Try to 'pull the ball.' If you're batting right-handed, you're standing on the left side of home plate and the ball should be going to left field.

Young players have a hard time with outside pitches. They want to go after the ball, so they reach out, which takes the strength out their swing. No wonder youth league coaches tell their pitchers to throw a lot of pitches down-and-away!

Zoning a Pitch and Pitch Counts (Minors/Majors/Seniors, etc.)

(With no strikes) Zoning a pitch means you are looking for a pitch in your favorite hitting zone (usually between mid-thigh to belly button and over the center portion of the plate (not the corners)). Zoning a pitch means you’re planning to swing at anything that is in your favorite zone…if it’s not great then you DON’T swing – even if the umpire calls it a strike (remember you get 2 more). If you get fooled by a change up or something you weren’t expecting then DON’T swing.

You get three strikes – use them wisely.

When you have no strikes you should zone a pitch. This means you are aggressively looking for a pitch that is in your favorite hitting area. If you get it you are looking to drive it. Either way you should be striding into the pitch to help you time the pitcher.

When you have one strike you need to open up your zone to the full strike zone – while looking for your favorite pitch. Also avoid swing at pitches that are in your problem area. This could mean you are a sucker for high pitches or outside pitches. Again be aggressive and make the pitcher give you a good pitch to hit while avoiding pitches you don’t hit well.

Understand what it means to be in a hitters count. This means the count is heavily in your favor (3 balls and 1 strike OR 2 balls and 0 strikes)…the pitcher must throw you a strike. This is the most likely time the pitcher will let up and throw an easy pitch to hit – you have to be ready to jump on a good pitch. When you have 2 strikes you need to put the ball in play and see what happens. This means you need to protect the plate. You need to think of yourself as batting for your team and not for yourself. You need to try to make contact with any pitch over or on the edge of the plate. This typically means that you should shorten your swing – not try to hit a homerun but instead just try to make good solid contact – sometimes this causes you to concentrate so hard that you actually make better contact and hit the ball harder. (I use a concept called “flat bat” when I am in this situation)

If you do strike out – take it like a champion. You can be disappointed - sure. But it probably means the pitcher did a good job and there is no shame in that. Always be in control of your emotions – baseball is a thinking sport and you have to stay in control…if you get too frustrated or excited – you will not perform as well.

Be a patient and aggressive hitter (Minors, Majors, Seniors, etc.)

Be willing to take a walk. (This doesn’t mean go up to the plate looking for a walk…good hitters want to hit.) But walks do help teams score runs…also if you’re not willing to walk then there is a good chance you will not see good pitches to hit. Walks also force pitchers to throw more pitches…ultimately tiring them out. HIT STRIKES!

Quiet hands

Reduce overly unnecessary movements before (and as) the pitcher delivers the ball. Slowly moving the body or hands is okay (reduces chance of the body to lock up) but beware of bad habits and “hitches” in a swing.

TIP! Watch for hitches – Coaches fake a pitch and see if the hands drop.

Soft hands, fingertips and bat action

The bat should be held only tight enough so that it does not fly out of your hands. Some kids squeeze the bat too tightly causing stiffness, tension and over- swinging.

The fingers should hold the bat, not so much the palm. Some trainers teach 2nd set of knuckles to be lined up to enforce the finger-holds.

Bat action is the process of getting the bat and the hands into the hitting position. Bat action begins by having the hands move back (away from the pitcher) upon lifting the batter’s front foot (this should not be up or down). As the hands begin forward they should begin to “cock” causing the bat to flatten out and the back elbow come in toward the body. Having the hands and bat flattened out deep in the swing allows the batter to have a larger or longer Hitting zone (sometimes called the BIG ZONE). The bat should stay on a level plane with the ball as long

as possible. As the bat comes into the contact position the bottom hand should almost be palm up (same action as skimming a rock).

The hips need to rotate such that the batters belly button points toward the pitcher. This can only occur if the back foot pivots (even better if the back foot eventually rolls over). The back pivot foot is used to drive into the ball and the continuation of that thrust should drive the back knee, pivot foot and hips to roll (rotate) forward toward the pitcher.

Bunting (Minors/Majors/Seniors, etc.)

1. Pivot and bunt a. Square early – when pitcher begins the wind-up b. Batter only pivots the back foot (like squishing the bug) and swivels at the hips pointing his belly button at the pitcher. c. Slide top hand up the bat with pointer finger and thumb together and lay bat on the pointer finger. d. Arms should be almost fully extended (slight bend at the elbows) such that bat is out in front of home plate (most kids leave the bat behind or slightly over the plate) e. Bat should be angled slightly up so that barrel is at top of your strike zone. Bat should never have to be moved upward now – otherwise you’re bunting a ball (not a strike). This causes pop ups. f. Bat should not be angled downward (causes pop ups) g. To bunt a pitch down in the strike zone knees are bent further and arms are moved down h. Knees are always bent

Base running Fundamentals:

In addition to teaching/telling the fundamentals we also need to show kids what we mean and then let the kids show us that they understand.

On The Bases

Where are the bases? (first, second, third, home – also known as 1, 2, 3 and 4) Running to First Base: Run to (and through) first base as fast as possible, only slow down after the bag Don’t watch where the ball goes before running Don’t watch the ball as you run (take a peak only – turn head NOT shoulders)

Run Through First Base (ONLY)

Batter/runners should run to first base and NEVER slow down or leap to touch the bag. The runner should ALWAYS run to and through the base when a play is going to be made at first. Run through the bag, then find the ball and then return to the base as soon as possible. Runner should step on the front of the base not the middle or back. Players should be taught that the front of the base is the closest to you so it could be the difference between being safe or out!

Don’t watch where the ball goes before running

Don’t watch the ball as you run (take a peak only – turn head NOT shoulders)

At second and third you cannot overrun the base (sliding is usually needed to stop at the bag if a play is being made on you).

Ready to run position (Instructional, Pee Wee, Minors, Majors)

When on base be in the ready to run position: toes pointing toward the next base, knees bent, one foot on the base and one pointing at the next base, arms ready to sprint…anticipate the hit…don’t wait till the ball is hit, move on the swing. Use the base to get a push to the next base.

Don’t watch the ball (Head on a swivel)

It is important to know where the ball is as a base runner…but many kids get caught looking at the ball and don’t run (delayed reaction) OR they watch the ball the whole time as they are advancing to the next base. The biggest problem with watching the ball is that it causes the runner to slow down…sometimes because the runner is not concentrating on running (and tends to cruise)…sometimes because the shoulders are not square to the next base (again slowing down the runner). The other major issue with watching the ball continuously is that runners are not prepared to tag the base (or slide early enough).

The right way to see the ball is to keep your shoulders square to the next base and take a peak by ONLY turning your head toward the ball. Once the ball is located the runner should turn and focus on the base. The only thing the runner needs to determine is if a play is going to be made on him/her or not a. If YES then this means the runner will need to slide. b. If NO then this means the runner should determine if they need to round the bag (and Belly out) or not.

Stay in the Base path

Take the most direct path to the next base (a straight line).

Force or No Force Play

You must “beat the throw to the next bag” on a force play…If you are not forced you don’t have to run!!!

Teach what a force is and when it is (and is not) in effect. (Occurs when a player is forced to move on to the next base because the batter has become a runner. When a fielder has the ball and touches the base before the runner has reached it the runner is forced out).

What happens if there is a pop up – understand when you don’t have to run…go only half way or less (the further the ball is away from you the further you can get off the base)…if the player catches the pop up get back to the base, if not you ‘can’ go if not forced - otherwise if you are forced and you MUST go to the next base.

Must touch the bases…don’t peak upon reaching the base (Don’t watch the ball). Make sure you hit the base!

Tagging Up

You can advance to the next base even if someone catches the ball (in fair or foul territory) as long as you are in contact or go back and touch the base after the catch is made.

Rounding the bases

Round the base whenever possible to challenge the person with the ball. As long as the throw is not coming to your base or the man at your base is not holding the ball, you should consider rounding the bag and try to force a throw to the next base. (Beware of rounding the base too far and getting picked off – know the arm of the person you are challenging)

When rounding a base the runner should hit the inside of the bag with either foot. Don’t step on top of the base…you lose the chance to push off the base and you could slip on the base

Belly Out or Banana Turn

When approaching a base that the runner intends on rounding, and possibly going to the next base, the runner should belly out (curve out) so that the runner is able to make a straighter line to the next base. The runner should begin to belly out at least 10 feet from the base. When the runner is able to belly out they should use the inside corner of the base to push off from to drive toward the next base.

Know the situation – how many outs?

Know how many outs there are at all times – tell yourself, tell your teammates, tell your coach (hold up fingers). If 2 outs your “Running on everything” even pop ups, foul balls or strikeouts.

Sliding

Slide under a tag – if possible. Start your slide about 1 and half body lengths from the base. Go full speed until you start your slide. Try to get as low as possible (leaning back away from your slide) as you get to the bag. Touch the bag with your lead foot (usually right foot for righties)

Secondary Leads

As the ball approaches the batter, the runners should anticipate the hit and use the base to drive off toward the next base. Regardless of whether the batter swings or not the runner should ALWAYS drive toward the next base and take additional shuffle steps if possible. The runner’s momentum needs to be going toward the next base (beware of catcher’s trying to pick you off and of line drives.)

Once the ball passes the batter or crosses the plate the runner can ‘lead’ or steal.

Running Drills

Run Through First

One sure way to get runners in the habit of running through first base after an infield hit is to have a base coach give the runner a hand signal. The coach should give the signal while the player is running toward first base after a hit. The signal could be something simple like holding one or both arms straight up in the air.

Have the whole team line up at home plate and have them run as fast as they can through first base. Make sure they hit the front of the bag (not the top or back) and then after crossing the base, veer toward foul territory. Have a coach stand in foul territory about 5-10 feet past first base and give the players a ‘high five.’

Running the bases:

Remember that beginning players will not know to run to first base when the ball is hit. Try something very simple that teaches base running. At the end of every practice, line up all the players on the first base side of home plate. During their first practice just let them take a turn running to first base, all the way around the bases and back home without stopping. Make sure the players in line at home plate are not blocking the runner’s path as they finish. With each practice, add something new like base coaches at first and third stopping the runners randomly at different bases. This will get the players to watch their coaches for instruction and reinforce the need to be on a base when they stop. Later, let them hold a bat before they start and be sure they drop it at the plate when they run. Make them start over if they sling the bat more than three feet from the batters box.

If you have a stopwatch – time the runners and see who can go the faster or improve their time from week to week. Make sure the runners round the bases properly and take the best angles (as noted above).

Body and Mind Warm-up for Instructional level players

Line your team up on the first base side of home plate for a base-running drill. Before players run, ask them where a different base or field position is located. For example, ask the player "where is center field"? After a correct answer, or a simple point of the finger, let the player run the bases. Let each player have one or more turns. This will help them remember where all positions are located and that will make it easier to get them in the right spot during games. They think running bases is fun!

Run down, Pickle or “Monkey in the Middle”

Start with a runner on first and have the pitcher pick him off (by throwing to the first baseman). The first basemen should then attempt to get the runner out if possible while NEVER allowing him to get to second. In fact it’s okay for the first baseman to throw a little early to make sure there is no close play at second. With the shortstop covering, the throw should be made to second and the shortstop should attempt to drive the runner almost all the way back to first (where the pitcher should be covering). Teach the runners to avoid being tagged out (but more importantly teach your fielders to “close the gap” when they don’t have the ball and to “call” for the throw loudly (NOW!)). Always drive the runner back to the bag he came from with the ball in the throwing hand (including a few pump fakes). By having the fielder without the ball in motion (half speed) toward the runner gives that fielder the momentum to tag out the runner (who is nearly stationary). Note that the second baseman is at second in the event that the rundown needs to continue…or the ball is dropped. And the shortstop continues to first to back up the pitcher.

Throwing Fundamentals:

Always warm-up your arm before throwing. Stretching should also be done before each practice and game.

The Grip

This is the first and foremost thing to address w/ young kids. All kids should hold the ball using a 4-seam grip. This will lead to a straighter, more accurate throw. Good cues to use are to tell them to hold the ball "across the 'C'" or horseshoe. The “C” is what you see when you hold the ball out in front of you and look for a

C made by the seams of the ball. If hands are too little, it's OK let them use three fingers

Get to a throwing position

Upon fielding a ground ball or a fly ball the fielder needs to get into a throwing position. A throwing position requires the fielder to first get to a balanced stance with momentum moving toward the target. Balanced stance is where your legs are slightly wider that your shoulders. The shoulders need to be perpendicular or pointed at the target and the head and eyes looking at the target.

Once you get to a balanced stance you should step toward the target and throw overhand. Back foot (throwing arm side) must turn and plant perpendicular to the target (should form the letter "T" with the direction of the throw). Hands should be together at this point and eyes with head up are focused on target. Use your glove arm as a scope to lead you to the target by either pointing your elbow or your glove at the target. Step directly at the target so that your stride is much wider than your shoulders and both knees are bent. While striding, your throwing arm comes back and then quickly releases toward the target. Balance is the key to this entire process…make sure the players is not “falling off” the line to the target. Finish the throw by stepping toward the target after releasing the ball – this is known as “follow your throw”…a good technique to work on at all levels.

Crow hop and throw

Outfielders, and infielders that need to make a long throw or that have enough time to make a throw, should use a crow hop. A crow hop is a short shuffle step that gets your body moving in the direction of the target. Usually one shuffle is enough to prepare to make a throw. The shuffle is used to gain balance and to begin momentum toward the target. Outfielders can often take a larger (or longer) crow hop than infielders. The crow hop is not really a vertical hop as much as it

is a horizontal hop toward the target. REMEMBER…Momentum is toward your target.

The “Shuffle throw” or underhand flip

For very short throws (less the 10 feet) it is preferred that the fielders make a shuffle throw or underhand flip. When making this throw the fielder should have the ball out of the glove and in plain sight to the target (show the ball). The fielder should take a short shuffle step and deliver the ball to the target underhand. The hand should continue to follow through throwing to the target and the player’s momentum should continue toward the target as well (never fall away). The ball should be thrown to the chest of the receiver. The flight of the ball should be firm but not too hard…balls with a big arc are NOT good at older age levels.

Used primarily by middle infielders when their body momentum has taken them toward the target (shortstops or second basemen). This is also used by pitchers fielding the ball and delivering the ball to first … or by first basemen fielding the ball and delivering the ball to the pitcher covering first.

Hitting the cutoff

Outfielders should ALWAYS hit the “cut off” man with the throw. 2 short accurate throws are better than one long error-prone throw. Young players that try to make long throws tend to throw with a high trajectory and often over throw the intended receiver. This only causes runners to take an extra base. 2 shorter throws are much less likely to cause an error and stop the runner from advancing.

The primary cutoff throws are made to the SS who should handle all balls hit to the left of 2nd base. All balls hit to the right of 2nd base are handled by the 2nd baseman.

Advanced Throwing Concepts:

Pivot (advanced)

For right-handed second basemen that are 10 feet or more from the second base bag the backhand flip does not work. Instead the second base needs to rotate his upper body toward second base and make a ¾ throw to the shortstop covering second.

What NOT to do

Never throw from your butt. You should never throw when your butt is on the ground. At a minimum get to your knees for an underhand shuffle throw. Never throw to someone that is NOT looking at you. Do not throw side arm – it will injure your arm over time.

Throwing Drills:

Nose, Toes and Throws

For beginning players, it is helpful to use a rhyme to help the players remember the proper throwing motion. Say "Nose, Toes and Throws" as they practice throwing. "Nose" is for looking at the target before throwing. "Toes" is for stepping toward the target with their glove-side foot and "Throws" is for throwing the ball. It works! Have them begin their throwing motion with their glove-side shoulder facing the target to force them to turn their shoulders as they throw.

Short toss to long toss

This is really just a warm up process. The players begin by having a pass from close range (20 feet or closer) and gradually move further apart as their arms warm up. The long toss is usually done from 60 + feet and is intended to stretch the shoulder by not only throwing a long distance but also throwing with a elongated arm action - draw the arm far back in the throwing motion to get a full shoulder rotation…. this mean avoiding the snap throw from the ear (aka the catcher’s throw).

Accuracy Counts

To develop accuracy, use a fun drill that will make them want to practice. Take a 5-gallon bucket and lay it on the ground with the open end facing the player. Have them practice throwing into the bucket using their throwing technique (Nose, Toes and Throws). You will see a huge difference in their accuracy. The best part is, it's a lot of fun. The kids won't even know their practicing.

Hit My Mitt

While warming up have the kids play a little game. Have the receiver put the glove in a different place (at chest, thighs, left, right, face…) and have the thrower hit the glove. If the receiver does not have to move the glove the thrower gets a point…then they can keep count. Wild throws that cannot be caught cause the thrower to LOSE a point.

Around the Horn

Put a player on each base (1, 2, 3 and 4). Start the ball with the catcher and yell out where you want him to throw the ball by calling out a number (1, 2 or 3). As the ball is in the air to that base call out the next base (including 4 or you want it to come back to home). As the players get better at the drill make them slap a tag on an imaginary runner. The key to this drill is to develop a quick reaction by getting the ball out of the glove and to set up the feet and square the shoulders to the next target base. It is also important to make strong accurate throws and to have the receivers in a good position to make the tag.

Cutoff drill

Line 5 or 6 guys up in a row in the outfield. each one about 40-60 feet apart. Start at one end and have the players throw the ball down the line. Players should have their arms up and gloves facing the thrower. The throw should try to hit the glove side of the receiver. Once the ball is received the player turn with his glove side foot, square his shoulders and take a shuffle step to make the next throw. When the ball gets to the end of the line that player should send it back the other way. Work on accuracy and quickness.

Fielding Fundamentals:

Ready position

Fielders should get into the ready position as the pitcher begins his wind-up. The ready position means that the player is focused on the batter with the knees slightly bent and the shoulders square to the batter. The hands and glove should be out in front of the player with the glove open below the waist with the palm of the glove facing the batter.

Creep-in

Upon delivery of the pitch all fielders should creep in by one or two steps causing the momentum of the fielder to go toward the batter. Creeping allows the fielder to be on their toes in a position ready to make a play (fielder should be on the balls of their feet – like a tennis player). As the ball is crossing home plate the fielder should breakdown…means get low (knees bent) and ready to shift in any direction.

Ground balls

Ground balls should be fielded with the knees bent and the glove out in front of the fielder, on the ground (on the deck) in a hinge-like manner. The fielder should bend at the knees NOT at the waist (although the waist should be bent slightly forward). A good fielder always starts with the glove down on the ground and works inward and upward as the ball bounds. Always field ball "out to in/down to up” – creating what is known as soft hands. The lower we play the further we can field the ball out in front, the better we can judge hops on balls hit right at us (same plane as ball), the softer our hands are.

Why field ball as far out in front as possible? We can see the ball better, we can be softer w/ balls hit harder, better chance to adjust, easier transfer.

Back Flat/Head on Ball” back shouldn't be arched

Feet Square to the Ball (or left foot slightly ahead)

Field ball "Middle" (preferably off the glove-hand eye). Fielding the ball in the middle or off the glove hand eye ensures that our glove stays OPEN letting ourselves field balls off the right foot slightly closes the glove. Also, it makes for a tougher transfer, and takes away our momentum through the ball.

The fielder’s throwing hand should be above the glove to be used to keep the ball in the glove AND to enable the fielder to quickly get the ball out of the glove to make the appropriate throw (this is also called “alligator” fielding – the glove and throwing hand act like the mouth of an alligator). The throwing hand above the glove can also be used to help protect the player from a bad hop. The eyes and head should follow the ball into the glove.

Backhanding a Ground ball

For balls that are to the fielders throwing side the fielder will need to use a backhand. The back-hand requires the fielder to cross the glove over the throwing arm side by reaching across the body with the open glove pointing toward the ball at all times. Again the glove should hit the ground if the ball is low and always move upward rather than try to go down. The upward momentum will help the body get into a throwing position. The trick to fielding backhanded is usually being able to make the play and get into a throwing position quickly enough to throw the runner out. The best way to do this is to bend your knees (deeply) and use the knees as a spring to get your weight onto your back foot (while turning your upper body toward the target). Once back to a balance position the back foot is used to drive the throwing motion to the target. NEVER try to throw across your body with a side-armed throw.

Bare hand a ball that is stationary

When a ball has stopped or is nearly stopped rolling the fielder should field the ball with the throwing hand (not the glove). The trick is to keep your eyes on the ball without taking a peak at the runner. Once the ball is fielded cleanly then the fielder needs to take a deliberate stride toward the target. One trick to use is to round the baseball…this means that the fielder curves before picking up the ball so that when they come across the ball to pick it up they will be heading in the direction of the target.

Double Play Depth

When a double play is in order (man on first and less than 2 outs) middle infielders should be at double play depth. Double play depth means that the fielders flatten out (get closer to the batter) and cheat toward second base (by 2 or 3 steps). This is done so that the fielder has time to get to the second base bag to receive the throw from any of the other infielders and allows them to get to a slow roller to ensure a force out at second. (Shortstop takes throws from the pitcher, catcher, first and second baseman, while the second baseman takes throws from the shortstop and third baseman.)

Double plays (Shortstop)

The footwork at the base on a double play is very important.

Second baseman should throw to a spot at the front side corner of the bag

The shortstop should get to a spot (a foot or so) before the bag and wait until they see where the throw is going. This allows them to adjust to a bad throw. The shortstop will run to the spot and breakdown (get under control) at the spot and them stride into the throw with his left foot. This may take the fielder right over the base with the right foot on the bag and planting the left foot to throw the ball to first

Double plays (Second Base)

The double play turn is the hardest play for a second baseman.

The second baseman will catch the ball with one foot (usually the left) on the bag (on the third base side of the bag). Upon catching the ball, the left foot steps off the bag and using a short shuffle step the right foot lands quickly and toward the infield side of the bag and is used to drive toward first.

After every throw teach the middle infielders to hop (high knees) with their feet…this will come in handy when a runner attempts to take them out by sliding into them.

It’s the runner’s responsibility to get out of the way of the throw. Teach your fielders to throw to first as if there were no runner.

Pop ups - Call it Up

Everyone in the area of a pop fly should attempt to catch it. As the ball reaches its peak the fielder should call for the ball (I GOT IT or MINE) loudly. Calling for the ball is EXTREMELY important to avoid collisions. The players that are called off should looks to avoid oncoming fielders while the player that called for the ball should attempt to catch it.

If 2 players call for the ball the infielder should ALWAYS give way to the outfielder and the shortstop takes priority over everyone in the infield (including

the pitcher), the second baseman takes priority over the first baseman. The first and third baseman take priority over the catcher. Center fielder has priority over left and right fielders.

Sometimes players call the ball at the same time – in this situation the fielder in charge should continue to call it MINE, MINE, MINE.

Unfortunately some collisions cannot be avoided.

Fly balls and pop-ups

When a ball is hit into the air the first step for every fielder should be back. The player should continue back until they know the ball is not coming to them (and therefore go to their assignment based on the situation) or that the ball will NOT go over their head. It is easier to catch a ball coming in than it is going back…so the rule of thumb on a fly ball is whenever possible over run it by a few steps and come back toward the infield as you make the catch. Whenever possible the catch should be made a foot above your chin as you look up at the ball. The fielder should then crow hop toward the potential target and get ready to throw.

Fielding Drills:

Roll Drill

Set up cones 12 feet apart and have one player without a glove in the middle. Another player or a coach faces the player and rolls the ball to the fielder’s right…the fielder needs to field the ball by shuffling his feet from side to side to get to the rolling ball. The fielder must field the ball with 2 hands (not one – 1 is cheating) and then lob the ball back to the coach. While the ball is in the air the coach should roll the ball to the fielders left and make them work hard to get to the ball (again with 2 hands)….continue for 10-12 times and try not to make any errors. Then switch positions!

Infield/outfield practice

This is basic infield and outfield practice. Get into a routine such that you do the same thing all the time. This will calm the team during pre-game infield practice – consistency is good. This is what I do, but you can create your own routine…

1 ground ball to each infielder and throw to first (including the catcher). Then move to the outfielders hitting the cutoff (2 to 2nd and 2 to 3rd) for each player. Send the outfielders in. Then do 1 again in the infield Then turn 2 in the infield Then infield in and play at the plate.

Starting Right

With groups of three or four, teach beginners how to field by showing them the proper hand and body position for fielding grounders. With their gloves off, have them hold their hands in front of them and place their pinkies side-by-side, in a cupped position. Next, demonstrate for them how to bend their knees and get their hands near the ground while keeping their pinkies together. Remind the players to keep their backs straight as possible. With their gloves still off, hand roll grounders to them (use soft balls or tennis balls) from eight to ten yards away. Roll it as slow as necessary for them to be successful. By starting this drill without gloves, it allows the players to see the correct hand position during fielding. Let them have several turns and then try it with their gloves on, using the same hand positions.

Fly balls – “Call it”

With players in the normal positions, throw (or hit) pop ups. Makes sure they call for the ball (BUT not until it reaches its peak). Work on the tough spots directly behind the pitch or behind second base. Also try over the first and third baseman’s heads (these are balls that the second baseman and shortstop respectively should be getting). Try foul balls too. Make it even harder by adding a base runner or 2. Have the players not in the play check to see if runners leave early.

Circle of Doom

With the coach in the middle have all of the players with their gloves make a giant circle around the coach. Players should be at least 20 feet away from the coach and a good distance from each other. The coach starts the drill by rolling or throwing a ball to one player…and the player fields it and throws it back to the coach. The coach continues to the next player (clock-wise or counter clock-wise it does not matter). I usually give one practice round before starting an elimination process. Once a full circuit is complete I continue but if a player misplays a ball he has to sit and is out of the drill (this is the DOOM part). I continue till there is only 1 player left (they get a piece of gum). I do it multiple times.

Variations: for better players I try to make it harder. For example (line drives, harder ground balls, pop ups, going out of sequence, blind throws behind my back …what ever I can do to try to slip up the players.) I usually use 2 balls to keep it moving very quickly.

For younger kids – this is obviously a slower drill with the emphasis on making the play correctly and cheering everyone on.

For Older kids - this starts easy – but gets quit intense and sometime difficult.

Double play flip drill

With shortstop and second baseman at double play depth, roll a ball to the second baseman and have the shortstop cover. If the ball is close to second have the second baseman flip it. If almost at second have the second baseman call off the shortstop to take it himself. If right at him have the second baseman pivot and make the throw.

Now do the same thing with the shortstop (second baseman covering).

Rotate through the lines to teach everyone.

MAKE SURE TO HAVE BOTH THE SS AND 2ND BASEMAN USE THE PROPRER FOOTWORK AS NOTED ABOVE.

Outfield Drills:

Over-the-Shoulder Football Drill

Emphasis on catching on the run. Have the fielder run patterns!

Athletic Plays Drill – ESPN Hi-Lights

Emphasis on dives/layouts

NOTE: ALL THESE CAN BE DONE W/O USING A BAT!!! LOTS OF REPETITION AND LOTS OF FUN FOR THE PLAYERS!!!

Live Fly Balls

With bat, but variation can be w/ tennis ball/racket

Live Ground balls 3 situations to work on

Safety Stance - glove knee down (only w/ nobody on). In this situation player is trying to block the ball from getting by with their entire body. Regular Infielder Stance (w/ runners on but no immediate play). Field the ball out in front like an infielder Do or Die- field outside the glove foot. This is done on-the-run and the player should come up with the ball directly into a crow hop and fire the ball to the cutoff man (or base as appropriate).

Catching Fundamentals:

Catcher’s Stance:

A catcher can assume two different types of stances. One is used without runners on base and less than two strikes, and one is with two strikes on the hitter or runners on base. For the most part, both stances have similar qualities. The major difference is preparing your body to block pitches at the appropriate times.

Without runners on base and less than two strikes on a hitter, the catcher will have their weight resting on their instep. A catcher’s center of gravity should not allow them to get caught lunging at pitches or falling forward.

The feet should be tow-to instep with each other. For a right-handed catcher, the left foot should be slightly ahead of the right foot. Balance should be evenly distributed over both feet. This will allow you to shift in any direction without any obstruction.

The glove arm should assume a relaxed position. The fingers should be pointed up and be tension free. The elbow should rest under or slightly angled away, not to the side of the hand so that the fingers are horizontal. The catchers elbow should also rest slightly outside the knee.

There are few different positions for the throwing arm to rest without runners on base and with less than two strikes. The most important aspect is to keep it out of harm’s way. It can either rest behind the back or the leg.

The throwing arm should move from behind you body to behind the glove. Place a closed fist behind your glove. There may be a fear that the hand will be hit by a foul ball. However, foul balls change plains. If you closed hand is behind you glove as you attempt to catch the baseball, you will be protected. The major advantage for placing your throwing hand behind your glove is to better facilitate a quicker glove to the hand exchange when you need to throw. If your throwing arm is placed behind your back or leg, it will take you longer to exchange the ball from your glove to your hand and throw, as opposed to having the throwing hand right next to your glove.

Blocking Drills:

1) Shadow Blocking (No ball) Coach stands behind the catcher. Catcher assumes their stance. The coach tells the catcher what pitch is thrown and where. The coach will give the catcher a few seconds to get ready. When the coach claps their hands, the catcher will assume the blocking position and hold. The coach or other players will check their form to make sure the catcher is in a good position. The drill can be varied by giving the catcher less time between pitch and location and the clap, or the catcher will go on verbal commands only.

2) Sit and Get Hit Coach gets on one knee from a short distance. The catcher assumes the blocking position. The coach will throw the ball in the dirt and off the chest of the catcher. The catcher gets the feeling of balls coming off their body.

3) Medium Toss Coach stands half-way between the mound and home plate. The catcher assumes their stance. Coach will throw balls in the dirt and the catcher will block, retrieve, and get their body in a position to throw.

Catcher Throwing Drills:

1) Catcher with ball. The catcher starts out with the ball in their glove. Coach will be in front of the catcher. The coach will instruct the catcher to use either load and throw or jump pivot. The catcher will execute the footwork and throw to a partner. Make sure to work both methods of throwing footwork.

2) One knee partner/coach toss. Catcher at home plate. Partner or coach a few feet in front on one knee. Partner or coach will toss ball to catcher who is already in their stance. The catcher will catch the ball and execute proper throwing footwork and throw to another partner. Being on one knee and tossing the ball will allow the partner or coach to put the ball exactly where they want to work. Also, this will assist the catcher in working on both types of throwing footwork.

3) Medium/Full toss. Coach will stand half-way or on the mound and throw pitches to the catcher who has already assumed their stance. The catcher will execute footwork determined by the pitch and throw to a partner behind the coach.

Pitching Fundamentals:

The Grip: There are only 3 grips to be taught at the little league level 1. 4 seam fastball 2. 2 seam fastball 3. The change up

4-seam fastball grip Find the “C” of the laces of the ball (also called the horseshoe) Place index and middle finger tips on top lace of the “C” so that pad of fingers are touching the top stitch of the lace. Ball should be in the fingers so that there is air space between hand and ball, Thumb should be under ball in center of the ball. Ball should be held like holding an egg – don’t squeeze. Wrist should be loose and flexible (not stiff). As ball is released you want a wrist snap to help increase velocity.

2-seam fastball grip

Hold the ball so the “Choo Choo tracks” are going up and down

Place index and middle finger tips on inside stitches of the 2 tracks so that pad of fingers are touching the inside stitches of the each lace as the laces are beginning to bend outward (this will vary somewhat by length of fingers). Ball should be in the fingers so that there is air space between hand and ball, Thumb should be under ball in center of the ball. Ball should be held like holding an egg – don’t squeeze. Wrist should be loose and flexible (not stiff). As ball is released you want a wrist snap to help increase velocity.

Change-up grip

Find the “U” of the laces of the ball Using 3 fingers place the bottom part of the U at base of middle finger so you can see the laces just above web. Index finger should be just inside (or on) of left side of lace and ring finger just inside (or on) of right lace, middle finger right up the middle. Stuff the ball into hand so that there is NO air space (this is called choking the ball). Thumb should be under ball and ON THE LACE. Ball should be held more tightly than the fast ball and wrist should be tighter also. Upon normal release of ball the wrist should be more locked and last thing to touch ball will be the thumb (triggering a slight rotation – causing down and inward rotation to right handed hitters (for right handed pitchers))

6 steps of pitching: 1. “Ready” (grip ball in glove so no one can see, raise glove in front of chin, stand at angle on right side of rubber [for righties, left side for lefties]), angled stance is helpful for pitchers who have an overactive pivot - but not required. 34

2. “Pivot” Baby step with left foot [for righties] so chin does NOT move (remains directly over pivot foot) and then turn pivot (right) foot in front of rubber with edge of foot just contacting front of the rubber (do not stand on top of rubber).

3. “Balance” lift left leg across body into the balance position {Show back pocket to hitter, should be balanced and be able to look down your left knee to see toes of left foot, shoulders perpendicular to plate}, When the knee gets to its HIGHEST point, the top of balance position, “pull the trigger” by buckling your back knee and shifting your weight to the ball of your foot and teach pitcher to “cut the cheese” [aka the fart position]…this forces the pitcher to cock hips and get left knee slightly behind the rubber ready to explode back to the plate. At the same time your hands should be moving down to your belly and beginning to break.

4. “The Break” upon starting back to plate, hands and glove will separate…think both thumbs down and spread like leading the band…throwing hand should go down and end up out behind head away from hitter – try to keep from exposing too much of ball behind back / head – causes pitcher to throw ¾ or side armed…want to think coming down (Over the top) – hardest fastball to hit is the one with downward motion – flat is bad.

5. “The Turn” as you begin to come forward to the plate turn the captains wheel… Turn your torso…core of your body should be generating most of the power (along with your legs). Release the ball working “down hill”. The body will lower itself by “pulling the trigger” Keys to a solid follow through/release 1. Release out in front 2. Kick the back leg as the ball is coming of your finger tips…do not kick too soon 3. Pretend there is a bucket of money on the ground to the outside of the pitcher’s landing leg. After each time they release the ball they should be “reaching for the money”

6. “The Landing or follow through” – Landing foot should be pointing directly toward the plate and player should land on ball of foot – NOT HEAL – Heal knockers ultimately will hurt their backs. Back foot should kick out as ball is leaving fingers and come around so that pitcher is in a good fielding position.

Running a practice

The key to running a good practice is to keep as many players active as possible, keep it fun, and have a plan for the day. Young players don’t want to listen to instruction for 30 minutes (sometimes not even 10 minutes), but as coaches we need to be able to coach/teach/instruct. So the trick is to slip instruction into short bursts…get the kids to repeat it back to you and then follow it up with a drill to reinforce it.

Getting started: It’s important to have a routine for the beginning of practice…once the kids know the routine the practices start by themselves. My practice routines start with a stretching

We circle up and stretch as a team. Stretching in baseball (and any sport) is vital to avoiding injury (more important for the older kids). Stretching as a team also allows us to do things together in a small group, laugh and build unity. We do about 4 arm stretches and 4 leg stretches 1. Reach for the sky 2. Arm pull across (both arms) 3. Throwing arm “screw in (and out) the light bulb (overhead straight arm) 4. Little/medium/big circles (out to the side straight arm)

1. Touch your toes 2. Catcher’s position 3. Hurdle and stretch 4. Butterfly

Upper body torso stretch, and left over right / right over left are also good drills.

Next we run – light jog around the entire field

Or to get a more serious workout we run in the outfield:

– Foot on the foul line on your teams side of field “facing in if in right field” steal second on my sound “Go”, explode and then hard jog and work on long stretching strides – Stop in center and do it again to the other foul line, – Then do it back again but from left field players should face the outfield…like they were stealing a base. (Sometimes the other team is in left field so I just go back and forth from the foul line to center and back again).

Warm up toss/infield Kids pair up and do the following 1. 2-knee catch 15 feet (15#) (proper mechanics- body square, 2 hand catch, shoulder/hip turn, correct grip, draw arm down and back, pause, deliver strike) 2. 1-knee catch 20 feet (15#) (proper mechanics- body square, 2 hand catch, shoulder/hip turn, correct grip, draw arm down and back, pause, deliver strike) 3. Regular catch 30 feet (15#) (same good mechanics – no pause) 4. Long toss (25#) – keep stepping back during regular toss until no room left in area…long arm throw with crow hop if needed – long toss builds strength while stretch out the arm. 5. Quick hands (aka speed toss) (25#) Move back in 25 feet. Quick toss, using proper footwork and 2 hands get the ball in and out of glove quickly and throw quickly to partner. Still need to make the step turn the shoulders and throw. 6. Barehanded ground balls (25#) – remove gloves roll ball to partner – using 2 hands and butt down/bend knees field ball and get to throwing position…don’t throw. Then roll to partner. 7. Ground ball with glove (25#) - roll ball to partner – using 2 hands and butt down/bend knees field ball and get to throwing position…don’t throw. Then roll to partner. 8. Backhand ground balls (10#) – overhand groundball firmly to backhand side of partner, cross over, deep knee bend, field ball on back hand and get up to throwing position (pause) and then overhand groundball firmly back to backhand side of partner (make sure guys are spread out enough). 9. Short hops (10#) – overhand throws that land 2 feet in front of partner, field the throw on short hop and return short hop throw back to partner. 10. Dive drill (5# each way) – get in single file line. 1 play steps out 5 feet and gets on 2 knees upright facing coach. Coach lobs a ball to player glove side out of reach so that play must lunge for ball – sometimes catchable sometimes not. Rotate through line 5 at a time. Then go through line and force backhand dives (5 at time). Then go through line and force forward dives. Make sure you have a guy backing up the play so you keep drill moving.

Now “practice” is ready to start. This all depends on “your plan”.

I try to spend 15-30 minutes per concept

So you might want to do:

For Younger Players

Younger kids need more instruction but have a shorter attention span. Drills and workouts should be shorter and faster – no delays between drill (Help is very important – if you can break the kids into smaller groups that is best. Focus on fundamentals and easier concepts…including using words or phrases that are easy to visualize and remember. For fielding - work on “the Alligator”, then NOSE, TOES and THROWS, for hitting work on the back pivot foot and hip rotation and making contact, work on base- running and learning where the bases are and how to get ready to go to the next one.

Batting practice is always fun for all but it has to be interactive and crisp – kids don’t want to stand around waiting for everyone to hit – so try to do stations (“T” work, Soft Toss, Short Toss and Live hitting) – need lots of help (coaches).

For Older Players

Most kids love to hit so my practices usually include some hitting. Sometimes a full batting practice, sometimes a 10 strike drill (give them 10 strikes – and get out), sometimes a 1-swing drill (everyone with a helmet – 1 strike to get a hit..if you miss you wait for the next round, if you hit you get back in line…until one is left...then start again).

I usually try to have a coach work with the on-deck batters hitting soft toss with waffle balls or tennis balls. Also while batting practice is going on the fielders are supposed to make the play. (To avoid injury ALWAYS wait for fly balls to come down before pitching the next pitch.)

Infield/outfield practice is also a standard…even if it’s just a pre-game style format. (Meaning 2 or 3 balls to each guy)

Every team should go over situations (like passed balls, steals, cut offs, bunt situations, etc.). There are lots of baseball situations that should be reviewed at the beginning of the season so players are prepared when they occur in a game. (If people are interested I will work on documenting the situations – if I have time).

Base running is also important (include situations for both the runners and fielders within the same drills – such as run-downs, throwing ahead of the runners, steals, pick-offs, secondary leads, slides, force plays, tag-ups, etc)). Make sure runners wear HELMETS.

The structure of the practice really depends on what you want and need to accomplish…but remember not to do the same thing every practice and try to change things up within each practice (1.5 hours of batting practice is not fun for anyone – although sometimes it’s necessary).