Outfield Drill: Route Running (Baseball & Softball)

Football-style drill where players run pass routes and catch fly balls on the run. Develops crossover steps, drop steps, and tracking skills.

How to Run This Drill

Coach or a player acts as the quarterback with a ball.
Fielder tosses a ball to the quarterback then assumes ready position.
This can be done going away from the thrower or towards the thrower based on skill level.
Fielder uses a crossover or drop step to begin their route, then sprints.
Quarterback throws the ball high enough for the fielder to run under and make an over-the-shoulder catch.
Stop and restart immediately if the initial footwork step is not executed correctly.
This drill doubles as long toss for pitchers working on arm strength.

Coaching Points

Crossover step: pivot on foot nearest the ball, cross the other over
If picking up the nearest foot first, stop and restart - wrong footwork
Drop step: step back first, then crossover in the direction of the ball
Stop the drill immediately if footwork is wrong - reinforce correct technique
Great for developing tracking and over-the-shoulder catches

At a Glance

Quick Actions

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