Infield Drill: Infield Prep Step Timing (Baseball & Softball)
Teaches infielders to time a small split step so their feet land as the ball crosses the plate, giving them an athletic first step in any direction.
How to Run This Drill
- Infielders set at their position in an athletic stance, glove out front.
- As the pitcher reaches the top of the motion, take a small right-left split step (a hop, not a leap).
- Both feet land at the same time on the balls of the feet, just as the ball crosses the front of the plate.
- Knees stay flexed, weight forward, hands ready to break in any direction.
- To rep without live pitching, the coach tosses a ball up and catches it; the player's feet should land the instant the coach catches the ball.
Coaching Points
- It is a hop, not a leap. Height does not matter, timing does.
- Both feet land at the same time so you can break either way without a false step.
- Land light on the balls of the feet, not flat-footed on the heels.
- Hands stay out front, not resting on the knees.
- Wide athletic base so the first step is a push, not a pivot.
Quick Actions
At a Glance
Similar Drills You Might Like
Explore more drills to build your practice plan and develop well-rounded skills
12-Step Cone Drill
A 5-cone drill covering all 12 outfield movements a player will face in a game. Uses 4 cones in a square (15 strides apart) plus a center cone to practice fly balls, ground balls, line drives, shoestring catches, over-the-head balls, and the speed turn.
Three Cone Fundamental Drill
Three cones mark the pre-pitch step, the fielding breakdown, and the footwork to first base. The fielder works around each cone in sequence on one ground ball.
Crossover Step Drill
Develops the crossover step - the most efficient way for outfielders to move laterally to fly balls. Pivot, cross over, and run to the spot. This encourages first step quickness and speed to the ball.