Throwing Drill: 3-Man Relay (Baseball & Softball)
Relay drill teaching quick transfers, accurate throws, and communication essential for cut-off and relay situations.

How to Run This Drill
- 3 players in a line, 40 feet apart
- First player at one end of the line starts with the ball and throws to the middle partner
- Middle partner catches the ball and quickly turns to throw to the end partner
- End partner catches the ball and quickly throws it back to the middle partner
- Middle partner catches the ball and quickly throws it to the first partner
- The goal is for player to use quick feet and soft hands to catch the ball, and get rid of the ball quickly to the next player in the line
- Players should catch the ball to their glove side to be able to open to throw the ball quickly
- Make sure players call for the ball when receiving “BALL BALL BALL!”
- Players rotate through the line (First →middle→end→first) after they have thrown the ball through the line 3 times
- This drill can be done anywhere there is enough room (field, open field, gym)
Coaching Points
- Middle player catches to glove side for quick release
- Call loudly for the ball - "Ball! Ball! Ball!"
- Quick feet, quick hands - don't hold the ball
- Throws should be chest high and accurate
- Catch, turn, throw in one fluid motion
- This drill simulates game relay situations
Quick Actions
At a Glance
- baseballs or softballs
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