Teaches players to use proper shuffling footwork to field a ground ball cleanly.
Equipment: bucket of balls, 2 cones
Players needed: 3 or 4
Time: 10 minutes
1. Set up two cones about 10-15 feet apart to create a “goal” like in soccer.
2. Have players line up to take turns playing “goalie.”
3. Roll the ball so that the player has to get it before it goes past them into the goal — the area between the two cones.
4. Remind players: shuffle and get the center of their body over the ball. Do NOT cross feet; keep eyes on the ball.
5. Keep the pace fast. Player gets ready, roll the ball. BANG, next player gets ready. Do not make this a festival between each player — you are trying for a bunch of good reps for each player.
6. Make it so the players can succeed, but not so easy that they don’t learn anything.
As They Improve
As they get better, you can roll the ball faster and from a farther distance away. You can adjust as needed — make the goal wider. This drill works for players of all ages as it’s adjustable.
Coach’s Notes
DO NOT do this with 10 players so that 9 are just standing around. Three is good. This is a good one to do at practice as it doesn’t use up the infield — you can do this on a patch of grass in the outfield. I’m always amazed at coaches who are confused at not having a baseball field to run a practice — sometimes all you need is some grass. Be prepared and you’ll find you don’t always need a whole field to get the job done.
If footwork drills like this one are your thing, grab the free Quick Start Guide and you’ll have a whole stack of them ready before your next practice.
