Infield Drill: Middle Infield Double Play Drills (Baseball & Softball)

Practice the middle infield feeds for turning double plays. Work on both shortstop-to-second (6-4) and second baseman-to-short (4-6) feeds using underhand flips.

Middle Infield Double Play Drills - Baseball Drill Video

How to Run This Drill

  1. Divide players into two groups: one at shortstop, one at second base.
  2. Coach positions near home plate and rolls ground balls to the shortstop.
  3. The second baseman breaks to the bag, places their left foot on the base, and presents both hands as a chest-high target.
  4. Shortstop fields the ball and delivers an underhand flip to the second baseman, who catches and simulates the throw to first.
  5. After several reps, switch to 4-6 feeds where the second baseman fields and flips to the shortstop covering.
  6. Players rotate to the opposite line after each turn. Progress to completing the full double play throw to first.

Coaching Points

  • The covering player must arrive early enough to be a stationary target
  • Break to the bag the moment the ball is hit
  • Coach should roll from a realistic angle - not directly in front
  • Flip should be chest-high with firm wrist - don't let it float
  • Footwork differs: 6-4 uses left foot on bag, 4-6 uses right foot

Quick Actions

Add to Favorites
Add to Practice PlanBrowse Baseball Drills

At a Glance

Categories
Infield
Focus Areas
Double PlayUnderhand Flip
Age Groups
7-89-1011-1213-1415-1617-1818+
Players
4-12 players
Difficulty
intermediate

Equipment Needed

Athletico Baseball Bucket Cover Organizer with Padded SeatBucket Of BallsFGBNM 25 Pack Disc Cones with Carry Bag and Holder, 5 ColorCones

Similar Drills You Might Like

Explore more drills to build your practice plan and develop well-rounded skills

1st Base Off Bag
Infieldadvanced

1st Base Off Bag

Develop first baseman's ability to field ground balls after breaking from holding a runner, using proper shuffle footwork. More advanced drill for first baseman in leagues where leading off is allowed.

View drill
1st Base Receiving Short Hops
Infieldintermediate

1st Base Receiving Short Hops

Advanced first base drill teaching how to pick short hop throws, an essential skill for turning errant throws into outs.

View drill
Alligator Hands Grounders
Infieldbeginner

Alligator Hands Grounders

Foundational ground-ball drill teaching two-hand "alligator" secure and centered funnel.

View drill
Browse All Drills