Infield Drill: Alternating Shorthop Ladder (Baseball & Softball)
Progressive short hop drill where fielders move through a ladder of stations, fielding alternating hops while moving laterally.
How to Run This Drill
- Set up cone markers in a line about 6 feet apart to create a ladder pattern.
- Partner stands perpendicular to the ladder and bounces balls to create short hops.
- Fielder starts at the first cone, fields a short hop, then immediately shuffles to the next cone.
- At the second cone, fielder fields another short hop from a slightly different angle.
- Continue through all cones in the ladder, then switch directions and go back.
- Progress from slow to game speed as players improve their technique.
Coaching Points
- Keep glove low and out front at all times
- Move your feet to get your body behind the ball
- Use soft hands to absorb the bounce
- Stay in athletic position while shuffling between cones
- Focus on clean fielding over speed initially
- Practice both forehand and backhand sides
Quick Actions
At a Glance
Equipment Needed
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