Implementing Fielding Practices

A typical fielding practice routine consists of the following: 

• Outfield Routine: Ground balls are hit to outfielders in areas that will require throws to second, third and home in a game situation.
• Throws to Second: hit balls to the left fielder near the foul line - hit balls to the centre fielder in left or right centre hit balls to the right fielder near the foul line
   
• Throws to third: hit balls to the left or right of the left fielder - hit balls straight at the centre and right fielder
   
• Throws to Home: hit balls in front of all outfielders (that they have to charge) - also hit fly balls to them. The cut-off men are always in position during these rounds. Following this, the outfielders go to centre field to practise catching fly balls hit to them by an assistant coach or pitcher.
   
• Infield Routine: This drill simulates the skills required of infielders during game conditions.

Assign players to the infield position (except pitcher). Starting with the third baseman, the coach hits a ground ball which is fielded and thrown to first base and then to the catcher. This sequence is repeated with the other positions. The ball hit to the first baseman is thrown to third base and then the catcher. The coach then repeats the entire sequence hitting to the infielder's left and right. After the first baseman's turn, the catcher is rolled the ball near the third base line (first round), then towards the mound (second round), and then near the first base line (third round). Each time the catcher must run up, field the ball and throw to first base. Following this, the coach hits in rounds to execute double plays (i.e. 5-4-3, 6-4-3, etc.) using the same rotational format. The coach then hits pop-ups, fair and foul. Objective is to have the proper player calling for and making the catch. The infielder then throws to first base, except for the first baseman who throws to third. Next, the coach hits balls to the infielder's left and right and directly at them with all throws to home for plays at the plate. Coaches should have three or four balls on hand to ensure a fast flowing drill. The conclusion of this activity during a practice session should consist of a short meeting. This meeting includes comments on the practice and/or information about the next game or practice, as well as providing the opportunity for players to ask questions and give input.

For more information on improving your coaching skills, contact Baseball Canada, www.baseball.ca, 613-748-5606; or the Coaching Association of Canada. 
 

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