Position-Specific Throwing Accuracy Drills

A Drill to Improve Throwing Accuracy from Various Infield Positions with Position-Specific Mechanics

The Position-Specific Throwing Accuracy drill focuses on improving throwing accuracy from each infield position by using tailored mechanics. Players practice throwing to different bases under game-like conditions, building accuracy and confidence.

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

Setup:

  1. Equipment Needed:
  • Baseballs (a bucket of balls to maintain drill flow)
  • Cones or markers to designate positions and bases
  • Targets or coaches at each base to catch the throws
  • Optional: Stopwatch to track speed of throws for added pressure
  1. Player Positioning:
  • Set up players at each infield position (1B, 2B, SS, 3B) with the coach positioned at home plate to roll or hit ground balls to them.
  • Designate a catcher or coach at each base (1B, 2B, 3B) as a target for throws.
  1. Throwing Stations:
  • Use cones or markers to simulate the positions and bases, creating a clear throwing path for each player. You may also set up targets at each base to simulate a fielder’s glove, helping players visualize their target.

How to Run the Drill:

  1. Coach Positioning:
  • Stand at home plate or near the pitcher’s mound to hit or roll ground balls to each infield position.
  1. Executing the Drill:
  • The coach rolls or hits a ground ball to a player at a specific infield position, who fields it and throws to the designated base. Emphasize correct footwork and mechanics tailored to each position.
    • 1B: Focus on short, accurate throws, often with a quick pivot.
    • 2B: Work on double-play feeds to SS or throws to 1B.
    • SS: Practice throws to 2B for double plays and to 1B for routine outs.
    • 3B: Emphasize strong throws across the diamond to 1B with proper footwork.
  • Rotate the ball to different bases, adjusting the fielding situations based on game scenarios (e.g., double-play throws, force outs, or long throws).
  • To increase difficulty, vary the speed and location of each ground ball and set a time limit for the drill to simulate game-like pressure.
  1. Repetitions:
  • Each player should perform 8-10 throws from their position, rotating to throw to various bases. Rotate players to different infield positions if desired, to increase versatility and field awareness.
  1. Adjustments:
  • For younger players, slow down the ground balls and use larger targets. For more advanced players, hit balls with increased speed and add time constraints for each throw to create realistic pressure.

Why You Run This Drill:

Position-Specific Throwing Accuracy Drills are crucial for building consistency and accuracy from each infield position. This drill allows players to practice their position-specific footwork, timing, and throwing mechanics under controlled pressure, making them more comfortable executing these throws in real games. By repeatedly practicing situational throws, players improve both their muscle memory and mental focus, allowing them to make quick, accurate throws under game-like conditions.

Key Skills Developed:

  • Throwing Accuracy: Players learn to make consistent, accurate throws from each infield position to different bases.
  • Position-Specific Mechanics: The drill reinforces the unique mechanics needed for each infield position, such as quick pivots for second basemen or strong, accurate throws for third basemen.
  • Decision-Making and Reaction Time: This drill sharpens players’ decision-making by allowing them to react to various fielding scenarios, helping them stay prepared for real-game situations.

Coaching Notes & FAQs:

Coaching Tips:

  • Emphasize Proper Footwork: Each position requires tailored footwork. Remind players to set their feet quickly but correctly before throwing to ensure accuracy and avoid rushed, off-balance throws.
  • Encourage Consistency: Accurate throws come from repetition and consistency in mechanics. Focus on smooth, repeatable actions rather than speed alone.
  • Incorporate Communication: For double-play drills, encourage players to communicate loudly and clearly. Effective communication builds confidence and prevents errors in game situations.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. How can I make this drill more challenging for advanced players?
  • Increase the speed and randomness of ground balls, add a time limit for throws, or use a stopwatch to track the time it takes to complete each play. You can also add base runners to simulate game pressure and encourage faster decision-making.
  1. Can this drill be adapted for younger players?
  • Yes, for younger players, use slower ground balls and a focus on mechanics rather than speed. You can also use larger or softer targets to help them build confidence with throws. As they improve, increase the difficulty.
  1. What should I do if players are consistently missing their targets?
  • Focus on footwork and proper throwing mechanics, which are often the cause of missed throws. Encourage players to set their feet, use a firm grip, and follow through on their throw. Reducing the pace of ground balls initially can help them regain confidence in their accuracy.
  1. How often should this drill be incorporated into practice?
  • This drill is effective when incorporated 1-2 times per week, especially in the preseason or before games. Position-specific throwing accuracy is critical for infielders, so regular practice helps build muscle memory and consistency.

Position-Specific Throwing Accuracy Drills are essential for building the confidence, accuracy, and consistency needed for reliable infield play. Regular use of this drill will improve a player’s ability to make accurate throws from each position, making them more dependable in game situations.