Two-Step Fielding Drill

A Simple Drill to Build Efficient Footwork for Young Infielders

The Two-Step Fielding Drill focuses on teaching young infielders the importance of quick, efficient footwork in their first two steps when fielding. It helps develop strong movement fundamentals, reaction time, and body control.

Difficulty Rating: ★★★☆☆ (Challenging but Fun)
Time Estimate: 10-12 minutes

Setup:

  1. Equipment Needed:
  • A glove for each player
  • Soft baseballs or tennis balls (to keep it safe and beginner-friendly)
  • Cones or markers to set up designated starting spots
  • A coach or helper to roll balls
  1. Player Positioning:
  • Place cones or markers about 5-6 feet apart in a line to represent a baseline, with one cone for each player.
  • Each player stands behind a cone in a ready position, anticipating the ball.
  • The coach or helper positions themselves about 10-12 feet in front of the players to roll balls directly at or slightly to the sides of the players.
  1. Drill Area:
  • Use an open space that allows players to move 5-10 feet to either side. Keep enough distance between players to ensure safety as they move laterally.

How to Run the Drill:

  1. Coach Preparation:
  • Stand 10-12 feet in front of the players, ready to roll balls to their left or right side.
  • Remind players to stay light on their feet and keep their knees bent in an athletic position.
  1. Drill Execution:
  • The coach rolls the ball slightly to the left or right of each player, focusing on short distances so that players only need to take two steps to field it.
  • Players should react immediately, taking two quick, efficient steps to get their body in front of the ball, then field it cleanly with their glove in front.
  • The focus is on quick footwork rather than throwing. After fielding, players reset to the starting position.
  • Repeat for each player, alternating the direction of the roll to work on both sides.
  1. Repetitions:
  • Run 3-4 rounds for each player, giving them a chance to work on both left and right movement. After each round, players can switch spots or rest briefly.

Why You Run This Drill:

The Two-Step Fielding Drill is essential for developing the foundation of good infield footwork, which starts with the first two steps. For young infielders, understanding how to get their body in position quickly is a crucial skill. This drill simplifies footwork by breaking down the approach into two steps, making it easier for players to grasp and execute.

Key Skills Developed:

  • Efficient Footwork: Teaches players to move quickly and directly to the ball without unnecessary steps.
  • Body Control and Balance: Players learn to stay balanced and control their body, so they’re ready to make the play.
  • Hand-Eye Coordination: Fielding moving balls helps players improve their coordination, which is critical for clean fielding.

Coaching Notes & FAQs:

Coaching Tips:

  • Emphasize Quick, Balanced Steps: Remind players to stay light on their feet, using quick, efficient steps to get in front of the ball. Avoid big or lunging steps.
  • Stay Low and Ready: Encourage players to keep their knees bent and stay low to the ground, which helps them react more quickly and maintain balance.
  • Focus on Glove Position: Make sure players have their glove out in front to see the ball into their glove, rather than reaching or catching off to the side.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. What if a player struggles to get in front of the ball?
  • If a player is having trouble, slow down the roll and reduce the distance. Emphasize staying low and taking quick, direct steps. With practice, they’ll build confidence and improve.
  1. Can I run this drill with more advanced players?
  • Absolutely. For advanced players, you can increase the speed of the rolls and add distance or vary the direction. You can also challenge them by adding a throw to a target after they field the ball.
  1. How often should this drill be run?
  • This drill can be incorporated into practice 1-2 times per week. Regular repetition builds muscle memory, making quick footwork second nature.
  1. How do I keep it fun for 8-9-year-olds?
  • Turn it into a game by timing players on how quickly they can get in front of the ball or challenging them to field as many balls cleanly as possible within a certain time. Recognize improvement to keep them motivated.

The Two-Step Fielding Drill is a fundamental drill that sets the stage for more advanced infield techniques. By focusing on quick, controlled footwork, young players build confidence in their movements and become more agile, prepared fielders.