By: Ron Bing, Puritas League, Cleveland, Ohio
Here's a nice simple infield drill(simple if the boys can count to three). This drill covers all of the throws an infielder will make, and it is so quick paced that the players enjoy it. Position a player at each base and home, give the catcher the ball. The players make three throws around the horn, then on the third catch, that player throws across the diamond to the player diagonally across to him. After four repetitions of this, the players run to the next base and start again. Here's how it works:C-3b-2b-1b-across to 3b; 3b-2b-1b-c-across to 2b; 2b-1b-c-3b-across to 1b; 1b-c-3b-2b-across to c who makes a sweep tag. Players than run to the next base: c-3b, 3b-2b, 2b-1b, 1b-c. Repeat this four times until the original catcher is back at home plate. Whenever a player throws to the wrong person, stop and give the ball back to him so he can get it to the correct boy. You will be amazed at how often the players will forget to throw across after the third throw. Keep working with them and it will begin to run smoothly. Once your fielders are comfortable with this drill, it makes for a nice pre-game drill. It is just sweet enough to impress your opponent!! Emphasis good, accurate, properly thrown balls; proper catching technique, and quick feet.
Date: September 17, 1998 at 16:26