Outfield Drill: Outfield Drop Step (Baseball & Softball)
Teaches first step drop, angles, and catching flyballs going backwards over the head.
How to Run This Drill
- Player starts in proper pre-pitch ready position in the outfield, facing the coach
- Coach stands facing the outfielder with a ball, ready to throw fly balls
- Coach calls out a direction ("Left!" or "Right!")
- On the call, player executes a drop step in that direction and sprints to the spot where they anticipate the ball landing
- Coach throws a fly ball in the called direction
- Player gets behind the ball (not drifting sideways) so they can work through the catch
- Player catches the ball with forward momentum, simulating a throw back to the infield
- Reset and repeat, alternating directions
Coaching Points
- Player should commit to their read and run directly to the spot—no drifting or backpedaling sideways
- Getting behind the ball allows the outfielder to be in position to make a strong throw to a base
- Drifting (moving sideways without getting behind the ball) leaves the player unable to throw and allows runners to advance
Quick Actions
At a Glance
Equipment Needed
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