Infield Drill: High Toss Short Hop Drill (Baseball & Softball)

Develops timing and footwork for fielding short hops. Players must read the ball trajectory off a high toss and position themselves to field immediately after the bounce.

High Toss Short Hop Drill - Video Demonstration

How to Run This Drill

  1. Players partner up about 20-30 feet apart on the infield dirt.
  2. One partner throws the ball high into the air toward the fielder.
  3. The fielder reads the trajectory and moves their feet to get in position before the ball lands.
  4. The goal is to field the ball on the short hop - immediately after it bounces.
  5. Fielder builds momentum through the ball toward first base as they catch it.
  6. Partners switch roles after 8-10 repetitions.

Coaching Points

  • Read the ball early and get your feet moving
  • Position yourself to field the short hop - not the in-between hop
  • Attack the ball with momentum toward first base
  • Stay low through the catch with glove out front
  • Good footwork is the key to timing the short hop

Quick Actions

At a Glance

Categories
Infield
Focus Areas
Situational
Age Groups
11-1213-1415-1617-1818+
Players
1-6 players
Difficulty
advanced
Equipment Needed
  • baseballs or softballs

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