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Purpose:

Infielders practice turning 3-6-1 double play

Setup:

  • Lines of players at Pitcher, SS, 1B positions
  • Coach with fungo bat left of home plate

Execution:

  1. Fungo 2 hits ground ball to 1B
  2. 1B throws to SS covering second
  3. 2B throws to Pitcher covering first
  4. Pitcher returns ball to Fungo 2
  5. Rotate and repeat

Coaching Tips:

  • Emphasize communication: Encourage players to communicate clearly and loudly during the drill, calling out “ball” or “mine” to avoid confusion and ensure smooth execution of the double play.
  • Focus on footwork: Pay close attention to players’ footwork during the drill, ensuring they use proper positioning and technique to pivot and throw quickly and accurately.
  • Reinforce proper timing: Emphasize the importance of timing in executing the double play smoothly. Players should work on their timing to catch, pivot, and release the ball efficiently, minimizing the time taken to turn the play.

For Younger Athletes:

  • Break down the steps: Break down the execution of the double play into smaller, more manageable steps for younger players to grasp and master each component of the play.
  • Practice glove-to-hand transfer: Younger athletes should focus on improving their glove-to-hand transfer skills, ensuring they secure the ball quickly and efficiently before making the throw.
  • Use soft toss: Start with soft tosses or underhand throws to help younger players build confidence and develop proper mechanics before progressing to full-speed drills.

For Older Athletes:

  • Increase game-like intensity: Challenge older players by increasing the speed and intensity of the drill to simulate game-like situations, helping them develop the ability to execute the double play under pressure.
  • Work on agility and quickness: Older athletes should focus on improving their agility and quickness, allowing them to react faster and move more efficiently to turn the double play with speed and precision.
  • Incorporate situational awareness: Encourage older players to develop a deeper understanding of game situations and anticipate potential double play opportunities, enabling them to react quickly and make smart decisions on the field.
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