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
- 1. Player starts in proper pre-pitch ready position in the outfield, facing the coach
- 2. Coach stands facing the outfielder with a ball, ready to throw fly balls
- 3. Coach calls out a direction ("Left!" or "Right!")
- 4. On the call, player executes a drop step in that direction and sprints to the spot where they anticipate the ball landing
- 5. Coach throws a fly ball in the called direction
- 6. Player gets behind the ball (not drifting sideways) so they can work through the catch
- 7. Player catches the ball with forward momentum, simulating a throw back to the infield
- 8. 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
At a Glance
- cones
- baseballs or softballs
Quick Actions
Similar Drills You Might Like
Explore more drills to build your practice plan and develop well-rounded skills
Fungo to Outfielders
Game-like fly ball and ground ball reps for outfielders. Adjust difficulty to each player and focus on proper technique before adding speed.
Route Running
Football-style drill where players run pass routes and catch fly balls on the run. Develops crossover steps, drop steps, and tracking skills.
Crossover Step Drill
Develops the crossover step - the most efficient way for outfielders to move laterally to fly balls. Pivot, cross over, and run to the spot. This encourages first step quickness and speed to the ball.
Add This Drill to Your Practice Plan
Use our free Practice Planner to build complete practice plans with this drill and 100+ others. Drag and drop to customize timing and order.
Try the Practice PlannerFree forever - No account required