3 Pitch Sets

Purpose

A fun, game-like drill that practices hitting, baserunning and fielding.

Drill Setup

• Split your players into three even teams of roughly 4-5 players each.
• Two teams fill out the defensive positions while the third team is on offense.
• Set up a pitching machine or have a coach soft-toss to the hitters.

How it Works

1. The first offensive player steps to the plate and with a bat and helmet.
2. He receives a two sets of three pitches. Each set will have a specific focus defined by the Coach. The hitter earns one point for each successfully executed hit.
3. For the first set, the hitter will lay down three bunts – a sac bunt up the left side, a sac bunt up the right side, and a push bunt through the gap for a base hit.
4. For the second set, the hitter will execute a ground ball up the left side, then a ground ball up the right side, then a sacrifice fly with a runner on third.
5. After each hitter has completed his two sets, rotate the teams and repeat. 6. The team with the most points at the end wins the drill.

Coaching Tips

• You can also do this drill in the batting cage or any open field space. Just use verbal cues.
• Make it harder: Add live baserunners.   Ask the hitter to place his hits into certain gaps on the field.
• Make it easier: Allow two attempts for each hit.