Drop Step and Go Drill

A Drill to Improve Outfielders’ Reaction, Drop Step Mechanics, and Tracking Skills

The Drop Step and Go Drill helps players develop the essential skill of turning and running to track fly balls hit over their head. This drill focuses on reaction time, drop step technique, and spatial awareness, making it a foundational drill for outfielders.

This drill is a valuable tool for any outfielder, building essential skills in tracking and reacting to fly balls. With consistent practice, players will improve their drop step technique, reaction time, and ability to handle balls hit over their head with confidence.

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

Setup:

  1. Equipment Needed:
  • Baseballs or tennis balls (to control difficulty and safety)
  • A field or open area with enough space for players to practice tracking fly balls
  1. Player Positioning:
  • Players should line up in a single file, with each player standing about 10-15 feet away from the coach. The coach should be facing the players, ready to give a signal or a verbal cue to start the drill.
  1. Coach Positioning:
  • The coach stands in front of the line of players, either holding a ball or simply giving the signal to initiate the drop step.

How to Run the Drill:

  1. Coach’s Signal:
  • The coach gives a visual or verbal cue to signal which direction the player should go (e.g., “Left!” or “Right!”).
  1. Execution of the Drop Step:
  • On the coach’s signal, the player immediately performs a drop step with the foot closest to the indicated direction. For example, if the signal is “Right!”, the player drops their right foot back, turns their shoulders, and begins to run back at an angle.
  • The drop step should be quick and fluid, allowing the player to adjust to the ball’s projected path as quickly as possible.
  1. Tracking the Ball:
  • Once the player has made the drop step, the coach either throws or hits a ball over the player’s head. The player must track the ball while running back and attempt to position themselves under it.
  • If no ball is used, the player can simulate the tracking movement, focusing on turning, running, and looking back toward the imaginary ball’s path.
  1. Repetitions:
  • Rotate players through the line, with each player performing 3-5 repetitions on each side (left and right) to build confidence in both directions.

Why You Run This Drill:

The Drop Step and Go Drill is essential for outfielders because it trains them to react quickly to balls hit over their heads. This skill is crucial in game situations where an outfielder needs to track the ball at a distance, adjusting their positioning based on the ball’s trajectory. By practicing the drop step, players develop confidence in their ability to get behind the ball, which helps prevent them from misjudging or “drifting” backward on fly balls.

Key Skills Developed:

  • Reaction Time: Players learn to respond quickly to directional cues, improving their ability to track down balls hit in different directions.
  • Drop Step Technique: The drill reinforces proper drop step mechanics, which are essential for getting a quick and effective jump on the ball.
  • Tracking and Spatial Awareness: This drill builds the player’s ability to track fly balls accurately, an essential skill for any outfielder.

Pros and Cons of the Drop Step and Go Drill:

Pros:

  • Teaches Essential Outfield Skills: This drill reinforces one of the most important skills for an outfielder—reacting to fly balls hit over their head.
  • Builds Confidence: Practicing the drop step gives players the confidence they need to execute it in game situations, reducing hesitation when a ball is hit their way.
  • Develops Physical and Mental Agility: The drill is quick and requires the player to react instinctively, sharpening their mental and physical agility.

Cons:

  • Requires Space and Supervision: This drill needs enough space for players to safely run back without obstacles, and it requires a coach to oversee and give signals.
  • Can Be Physically Demanding: For younger or less conditioned players, repeatedly performing the drop step and sprinting back can be physically taxing. Proper rest between repetitions is important.

Coaching Notes & FAQs:

Coaching Tips:

  • Emphasize Quick Reaction: Encourage players to initiate the drop step as soon as they see or hear the coach’s signal. Speed and fluidity are crucial to executing this drill effectively.
  • Teach Proper Drop Step Mechanics: Remind players to pivot and drop the correct foot back without crossing their feet. This sets them up to run back efficiently and maintain balance.
  • Focus on Head and Eye Position: As players track the ball, remind them to keep their head steady and eyes focused on the ball’s path, avoiding distractions and unnecessary head movement.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. What should I do if the player hesitates before dropping back?
  • Hesitation is often due to a lack of confidence or familiarity with the movement. Practice the drop step without running at first, allowing players to feel comfortable with the movement. As they gain confidence, they’ll be able to react more quickly.
  1. How can I modify this drill for younger players?
  • For younger players, start by using verbal signals and allow them to practice the drop step without running back. You can gradually introduce the full running movement as they get comfortable. Using tennis balls instead of baseballs can also help reduce the fear factor.
  1. How often should I run this drill with players?
  • This drill can be incorporated into outfield practice 1-2 times per week, as it’s essential for building foundational outfield skills. Repeated practice helps players internalize the movement and improves their reaction time.
  1. What if the player struggles with tracking the ball?
  • If tracking is a challenge, start by tossing the ball shorter distances and gradually increase the distance as they improve. Emphasize keeping their head steady and eyes focused on the ball’s path.