Crossover Drill

Purpose

Outfielders practice making adjustments on a fly ball.

Drill Setup

• Player and coach stand roughly 10-15 yards apart in an open space.

How it Works

1. Coach throws a fly ball over the fielder’s head.
2. As fielder runs back to catch it he practices taking a drop step and crossing over.
3. Depending on the height of the ball he should execute this maneuver 1 to three times.
4. After that player catches the ball, the next player goes.

Coaching Tips

• A common mistake outfielders make is crossing the path of the ball – this drill teaches them how to recover so that they are in perfect position to make the catch.
• When running back, players should be pumping their arms and keeping their legs driving.
• When going back on a ball the outfielders’ toes, waist and chest should all be facing the outfield fence. Only their head should be turned so that they can look back at the ball.