Having the proper footwork and range to catch fly balls that are not hit directly at the player is important.
What you need (set up): Line up the fielders in all three of the fields. [tag]Coach[/tag] will hit the balls to the players.
How this drill works: Prior to doing this [tag]coaching baseball drill[/tag] the players should understand the fundamentals of catching high fly balls that are not hit directly to them. They should understand the proper “˜stalking’ of a fly ball. The coach should stress that the player take the first step with their glove side foot, and move quickly to anticipate the direction of the ball, and then get under it.
Dropped balls are usually caused by improper approach to the ball and then a lack of concentration. This drill emphasizes those areas and helps a player to learn by repetition.
You can also use this [tag]baseball[/tag] drill to help players adjust to high fly balls. Many times players can misjudge these balls. Constant repetition and is important in gaining an understanding of how the ball is going to travel.
Results: Players will be more responsive and more confident when they are able to accurately and effectively track down a [tag]fly ball[/tag]. This drill also helps prepare them for catching the ball under control and then making the throw.