Alligator Hands

Alligator hands is a popular coaching cue used to teach young players proper two-hand fielding technique. The glove acts as the lower jaw flat on the ground, while the bare hand comes down on top like the upper jaw, clamping together to "chomp" the ball securely.

Why It Works

Visual Learning

• Kids immediately understand the alligator imagery
• Creates a memorable mental picture
• Easy to demonstrate and repeat

Proper Mechanics

• Ensures glove stays on the ground
• Forces use of two hands
• Prevents balls from popping out

How to Teach It

The Setup

1. Get in athletic stance, knees bent
2. Glove hand down, fingers pointing to the ground
3. Glove flat like the alligator's bottom jaw

The Chomp

1. As ball enters glove, bring bare hand down
2. Clamp both hands together firmly
3. Secure the ball in the "alligator mouth"

Practice Drill

1. Roll soft grounders from 10-15 feet
2. Have players call out "CHOMP!" when securing
3. Emphasize staying low throughout

Common Variations

Alligator Catch

Same concept applied to catching fly balls, two hands securing the catch overhead.

Crocodile Hands

Some coaches use this alternate reptile for the same technique.

Age Appropriateness

Age Group	Application
4-6 years	Core fundamental, use every rep
7-8 years	Reinforce consistently
9-10 years	Transition to more advanced techniques
11+ years	One-hand plays when necessary, two hands when possible

Key Coaching Points

• "Glove on the ground, hand on top" - The basic cue
• "Chomp that ball!" - Adds energy and fun
• "Don't let the gator miss dinner!" - Emphasizes securing every ball

Why Two Hands Matter

At all levels, using two hands when possible:

• Provides a backup if ball takes a bad hop
• Allows quicker transfer to throwing hand
• Reduces errors on routine plays
• Builds muscle memory for proper technique

Even MLB players use two hands on routine ground balls, the alligator technique simply makes this fundamental accessible to young players.