Ground Ball Fielding Drill

A Drill to Improve Quick Pickups and Throws to Stop Runners in Their Tracks

The Ground Ball Fielding Drill focuses on developing fast, clean pickups and accurate throws to cut off runners. This drill is essential for teaching players how to handle ground balls under pressure and make efficient throws to different bases.

This drill is a staple of infield practice, helping players develop the skills needed to field ground balls effectively, make quick decisions, and cut off runners. Consistent use of this drill will improve your players’ defensive abilities and overall confidence on the field.

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

Setup:

  1. Equipment Needed:
  • Baseballs
  • Gloves for each player
  • Bats (for coach to hit ground balls)
  • Bases or cones to simulate base positions
  1. Player Positioning:
  • Position players at various infield spots (e.g., shortstop, second base, and third base) to simulate real-game scenarios.
  • Place additional players at first base or designated bases for receiving throws.
  1. Field Setup:
  • Set up a standard infield configuration with bases or cones to represent each base. Ensure players are positioned at different infield spots to get a variety of ground ball scenarios.

How to Run the Drill:

  1. Coach Positioning:
  • The coach stands at home plate with a bucket of baseballs and a bat, ready to hit ground balls to each player. You can vary the direction, speed, and difficulty of each ground ball.
  1. Drill Execution:
  • Hit ground balls to each infielder, one at a time. Players should approach the ball with quick footwork, focusing on fielding it cleanly and making an efficient throw to the designated base.
  • Alternate between hitting ground balls directly at players, to their left, and to their right to simulate different fielding angles.
  • Vary the intended target for each throw (e.g., first base, second base, third base, or home) to simulate game situations where players need to throw quickly to cut off a runner.
  1. Repetitions:
  • Each player should field 5-10 ground balls per round, with rotations after each set. Continue for 10-15 minutes, allowing each player multiple chances to field and throw to different bases.

Why You Run This Drill:

The Ground Ball Fielding Drill is designed to help players develop confidence in fielding ground balls and making quick, accurate throws. Quick pickups and fast, controlled throws are essential skills for preventing base runners from advancing. This drill builds fielding fundamentals, enhances reaction time, and reinforces the importance of situational awareness.

Key Skills Developed:

  • Fielding Fundamentals: Teaches players proper footwork, glove placement, and body positioning for fielding ground balls cleanly.
  • Quick Decision-Making: Helps players make quick decisions on where to throw the ball, simulating real-game situations.
  • Throwing Accuracy: Reinforces the importance of controlled, accurate throws to cut off runners.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • Improves Infield Skills: This drill reinforces the fundamentals of fielding, positioning, and throwing for infielders.
  • Game-Like Situations: Simulates in-game pressures, preparing players to field balls quickly and make decisions on the fly.
  • Enhances Communication: Players learn to communicate with each other about where the play is, helping to build teamwork on the field.

Cons:

  • Repetitive for Experienced Players: Players who already have strong fielding skills may not benefit as much from the basic repetitions.
  • Risk of Injury: If not monitored closely, misfielded ground balls or errant throws can result in minor injuries, especially with younger players.

Coaching Notes & FAQs:

Coaching Tips:

  • Emphasize Footwork: Encourage players to approach each ground ball with quick, short steps, getting their body in front of the ball and staying low.
  • Focus on Proper Glove Position: Remind players to keep their glove down and their hands “soft” to ensure they don’t bobble the ball.
  • Encourage Communication: Reinforce the importance of calling out the play (“One!” for first base, “Two!” for second base, etc.), especially if multiple players are involved in fielding or receiving throws.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. What should I do if a player is struggling to field cleanly?
  • If a player is having trouble with ground balls, slow down the pace and focus on basic fundamentals. Reinforce keeping their glove down, staying low, and using quick steps to get in front of the ball.
  1. How can I make this drill more challenging?
  • For more advanced players, increase the speed or add variations in ball direction and bounce height. You can also have players simulate double-play situations to add complexity.
  1. Is this drill suitable for all ages?
  • Yes, this drill can be adapted for all ages by adjusting the speed and difficulty of the ground balls. For younger players, focus on building confidence with slower, straightforward ground balls.
  1. How often should I incorporate this drill into practice?
  • This drill can be run 1-2 times per week during infield practice, especially if your team is focusing on fielding fundamentals or preparing for defensive situations in upcoming games.