Team Defense Drill: First and Third Defense (Baseball & Softball)
Team defensive drill practicing various first-and-third situations. Essential for game preparation at higher levels.
How to Run This Drill
- Set up full infield defense with runners at first and third base.
- Before each play, call out which defensive play to execute.
- Play 1 - Look and throw: Catcher looks runner back at third, then throws to second base.
- Play 2 - Cut and throw home: Shortstop cuts the throw and fires home if runner breaks.
- Play 3 - Fake to second: Catcher pump fakes to second, then throws home.
- Play 4 - Let it go: Ball goes through to second baseman who checks the runner.
- Rotate runners and fielders after practicing all variations. Discuss reads and execution.
Coaching Points
- Pre-pitch communication is critical
- Know the game situation - score, outs, runner speed
- Catcher controls the play
- Practice all variations so defense is prepared
- Infielders must know their role in each play
Quick Actions
At a Glance
Categories
Team DefenseBaserunning
Focus Areas
SituationalCutoffs & Relays
Age Groups
13-1415-1617-1818+
Players
9-18 players
Difficulty
advanced
Equipment Needed
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