Throwing Drill: 3-Man Relay (Baseball & Softball)

Relay drill teaching quick transfers, accurate throws, and communication essential for cut-off and relay situations.

3-Man Relay - Video Demonstration

How to Run This Drill

  1. 3 players in a line, 40 feet apart
  2. First player at one end of the line starts with the ball and throws to the middle partner
  3. Middle partner catches the ball and quickly turns to throw to the end partner
  4. End partner catches the ball and quickly throws it back to the middle partner
  5. Middle partner catches the ball and quickly throws it to the first partner
  6. 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
  7. Players should catch the ball to their glove side to be able to open to throw the ball quickly
  8. Make sure players call for the ball when receiving “BALL BALL BALL!”
  9. Players rotate through the line (First →middle→end→first) after they have thrown the ball through the line 3 times
  10. 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

Categories
ThrowingTeam Defense
Focus Areas
Throwing
Age Groups
11-1213-1415-1617-1818+9-10
Players
3-12 players
Difficulty
intermediate
Equipment Needed
  • baseballs or softballs

Add This Drill to Your Practice Plan

Use our free Practice Planner to build complete practice plans with this drill and 100+ others. Drag and drop to customize timing and order.

Try the Practice Planner

Free forever - No account required