3B Slow Rollers

Purpose:

3B practices charging a slow roller and making a throw to first

Setup:

• Lines of players at 3B and Short 1B
• Coach with fungo bat right of home plate

Execution:

• Fungo 1 hits slow roller down 3B line
• 3B charges the ball, fields it and throws to Short 1B
• Short 1B return the ball to Fungo 1
• Fungo 1 can also hit hard ground ball down the third baseline
• 3B guards the line, fields the ball and throws to Short 1B
• Rotate and repeat

For Younger Athletes:

• Emphasize staying low with knees bent while approaching the slow roller, maintaining balance and improving the chances of a clean pickup.
• Instruct them to take short, quick steps when charging the ball, which helps in adjusting their positioning as they get closer to the ball.
• Reinforce the importance of practicing accurate throws to first base, focusing on making a strong and controlled throw even after a quick fielding motion.

For Older Athletes:

• Encourage them to read the ball off the bat quickly, allowing them to determine the best path to charge and field it cleanly.
• Focus on practicing a quick transition from fielding to throwing, which includes positioning their feet and shoulders to ensure a smooth and accurate throw to first base.
• Teach them to assess the speed and spin of the slow roller to anticipate how the ball will bounce, enabling better positioning and fielding decisions.