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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

  1. Set up full infield defense with runners at first and third base.
  2. Before each play, call out which defensive play to execute.
  3. Play 1 - Look and throw: Catcher looks runner back at third, then throws to second base.
  4. Play 2 - Cut and throw home: Shortstop cuts the throw and fires home if runner breaks.
  5. Play 3 - Fake to second: Catcher pump fakes to second, then throws home.
  6. Play 4 - Let it go: Ball goes through to second baseman who checks the runner.
  7. 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

At a Glance

Categories
Team DefenseBaserunning
Focus Areas
SituationalCutoffs & Relays
Age Groups
13-1415-1617-1818+
Players
9-18 players
Difficulty
advanced
Equipment Needed
  • bases
  • baseballs or softballs

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