Ground Ball Fundamentals

A Drill to Teach Proper Fielding Mechanics, Glove Positioning, and Footwork for Ground Balls

The Ground Ball Fundamentals drill covers the basics of fielding ground balls, focusing on correct glove positioning, staying low, and using proper footwork to set up an accurate throw. This drill builds a strong foundation for young players learning the essentials of infield defense.

Difficulty Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (Easy to Moderate)
Time Estimate: 10-15 minutes

Setup:

  1. Equipment Needed:
  • Baseballs or soft training balls
  • Cones or markers to outline the fielding area
  • A target, such as a net or another player to receive throws
  1. Player Positioning:
  • Position players about 15-20 feet away from the coach or partner rolling the ground balls.
  • Each player should stand in an athletic ready position, knees slightly bent, glove hand open and ready.
  1. Drill Area:
  • Set up a clear space with enough room for the player to move laterally and come forward on the ball.
  • Place a target for throws about 20-30 feet away from the fielder to reinforce proper footwork and throwing mechanics.

How to Run the Drill:

  1. Coach Positioning:
  • Stand about 15-20 feet in front of the player, ready to roll or hit ground balls directly toward them.
  1. Execution of the Drill:
  • Roll or softly hit ground balls to the player, focusing on different angles to reinforce movement and glove positioning.
  • Instruct the player to get into a “fielding triangle” position: feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, glove hand in front, and their throwing hand positioned above the glove.
  • Encourage the player to stay low, keep their glove on the ground, and watch the ball into the glove. Emphasize fielding the ball in front of their body, not directly under them.
  • Once the player fields the ball, they should use their footwork to position themselves for an accurate throw to the target.
  • Reinforce making an accurate, controlled throw after each fielding repetition.
  1. Repetitions:
  • Each player should field 10-15 ground balls per round, with short breaks between sets. Rotate players to allow for coaching feedback and adjustments.
  1. Variations:
  • For advanced players, increase the speed of the ground balls or add lateral movement by rolling the balls to the player’s left or right, forcing them to move to get in front of the ball.

Why You Run This Drill:

The Ground Ball Fundamentals drill is essential for teaching players the core mechanics of fielding ground balls. Proper glove positioning, staying low, and effective footwork are all key components of infield defense. By mastering these basics, players build a solid foundation for more complex fielding plays and improve their ability to make quick, accurate throws.

Key Skills Developed:

  • Glove Positioning: Teaches players to get their glove down on the ground, creating a solid base for cleanly fielding ground balls.
  • Body Control and Balance: Helps players stay low and balanced, essential for maintaining control and preparing for a throw.
  • Footwork for Throwing: Emphasizes the importance of moving the feet to align the body with the target, improving the accuracy and strength of throws.

Coaching Notes & FAQs:

Coaching Tips:

  • Stay Low and Watch the Ball: Remind players to keep their body low and their eyes focused on the ball all the way into the glove. Avoid standing up too soon, as this can lead to missed balls or misthrows.
  • Field Out in Front: Encourage players to field the ball out in front, not directly under their body. This positioning provides better vision and control.
  • Footwork is Key: Emphasize the importance of moving the feet to align with the throw. Good footwork will lead to more consistent, accurate throws.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. What should I do if players are missing the ball frequently?
  • If players struggle with control, slow down the roll and reinforce staying low and keeping the glove down. Break the drill down step-by-step if needed, focusing on glove positioning first, then adding movement.
  1. Can this drill be used for players of all ages?
  • Yes, this drill is fundamental for all age levels, but for younger players, focus on slower rolls and building confidence. For older or more advanced players, increase the speed or add lateral movement.
  1. How can I make this drill more challenging?
  • To add difficulty, increase the speed of the ground balls, hit the balls at angles, or require players to make quick throws to a designated target after fielding. These variations simulate game-like conditions and further improve reaction time and accuracy.
  1. How often should this drill be incorporated into practice?
  • Ground Ball Fundamentals should be practiced regularly, ideally 2-3 times per week, as it’s a core skill for infielders. Consistency will help reinforce good habits and muscle memory.

The Ground Ball Fundamentals drill is a foundational exercise for building strong fielding skills in youth players. With regular practice, this drill helps players improve their body control, positioning, and accuracy, leading to more successful defensive plays on the field.