Basic Double Play Practice

A Drill to Develop Timing, Smooth Transitions, and Accuracy for Turning Double Plays

The Double Play drill is crucial for infielders to develop the skills needed to turn double plays efficiently. With consistent practice, players will gain confidence in their timing, transitions, and accuracy, enhancing their ability to perform in high-stakes game situations.

This drill teaches infielders the mechanics of turning a double play. This drill emphasizes smooth transitions, ideal timing, and accurate throws, helping players maximize outs in critical game situations.

Difficulty Rating: ★★★★☆ (Advanced)
Time Estimate: 15-20 minutes

Setup:

  1. Equipment Needed:
  • Baseballs (a bucket of balls for continuous repetitions)
  • Four bases (to set up second base and first base specifically)
  • Gloves for infielders
  • (Optional) Cones or markers to indicate positioning for younger or developing players
  1. Player Positioning:
  • Set up your middle infielders at their respective positions (second base and shortstop) and the first baseman at first base.
  • If you have a third baseman, include them in the drill for realistic scenarios where the ball is hit to third before a double play attempt.
  • The coach stands near the pitcher’s mound or home plate with a bucket of balls, ready to hit or throw ground balls to simulate double play situations.
  1. Field Setup:
  • Ensure that second and first base are clearly marked. Place cones or markers for the infielders’ starting positions if necessary to ensure correct spacing.
  • Position players as they would be in a game, with special emphasis on the shortstop and second baseman’s locations, as they will need to make quick transitions.

How to Run the Drill:

  1. Coach Positioning:
  • The coach stands near the mound or home plate to hit or throw ground balls to infielders. Decide on an order (for example, start with ground balls to shortstop, then to second baseman, then to third baseman) and vary the ground ball location to simulate different game scenarios.
  1. Double Play Execution:
  • Hit or throw a ground ball to the shortstop. The shortstop fields the ball and makes a quick throw to the second baseman covering second base.
  • The second baseman catches the throw, makes a swift transition, and throws to the first baseman to complete the double play.
  • Rotate through different scenarios, including:
    • Ground ball to the shortstop.
    • Ground ball to the second baseman.
    • Ground ball to the third baseman (if working with a third baseman).
  • Vary the speed and angle of the ground balls to simulate game situations, helping players learn to read the ball and position themselves effectively for each double play attempt.
  1. Repetitions:
  • Aim for 10-12 double play attempts per position. Rotate between shortstop, second baseman, and third baseman (if applicable) to practice double plays from each location.
  • Encourage players to focus on accuracy, footwork, and smooth transitions for each repetition.
  1. Adjustments:
  • For less experienced players, reduce the speed of the ground balls or use a softer ball to build confidence. As players improve, increase the speed and difficulty of the ground balls, making the drill more game-like.

Why You Run This Drill:

Double Play Practice is essential for building strong infield fundamentals and developing quick, coordinated teamwork between the middle infielders. Double plays can change the momentum of a game, so practicing smooth transitions, timing, and accurate throws is critical. This drill also helps players become comfortable with high-pressure situations, allowing them to focus on mechanics rather than rushing or panicking during real games.

Key Skills Developed:

  • Smooth Transitions: Players learn to transfer the ball quickly and efficiently, allowing them to make two outs in a single play.
  • Timing and Footwork: Proper footwork is critical for positioning, throwing accuracy, and injury prevention, and this drill reinforces those skills.
  • Throwing Accuracy: Infielders must make quick, accurate throws, especially during the transition from second to first. This drill helps them focus on precision even under pressure.

Coaching Notes & FAQs:

Coaching Tips:

  • Emphasize Footwork and Balance: Proper footwork allows for smooth, quick throws. Encourage players to position their feet properly when approaching the bag to maximize stability and speed.
  • Communication is Key: Teach players to call out when they are ready for the throw. The receiving infielder should call “got it” to signal they are prepared to make the throw to first.
  • Follow Through on Throws: Ensure players follow through on their throws to maintain accuracy and prevent arm strain, especially during the transition throw to first.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. What should I do if players are struggling with timing?
  • Break down the drill into individual steps. For example, have the shortstop practice just the throw to second base while the second baseman works on transitioning and throwing to first. Recombine the steps as players become more comfortable with the timing.
  1. How can I make this drill easier for younger or less experienced players?
  • Use a softer ball or reduce the speed of the ground balls to allow players time to focus on positioning and footwork. You can also have players practice with just one out (i.e., throw to second base only) to build confidence before attempting a full double play.
  1. How do I keep the drill challenging for more advanced players?
  • Increase the speed of ground balls and vary the direction, forcing players to adjust to more game-like situations. You can also add a third baseman for ground balls hit to the third base side or set up cones to simulate baserunners, requiring quicker transitions.
  1. How often should this drill be incorporated into practice?
  • Double Play Practice should be incorporated 1-2 times per week to reinforce mechanics and timing. Frequent practice helps infielders develop confidence and muscle memory for turning double plays effectively.