Catching Drill: Slow Rolls (Baseball & Softball)
A blocking drill where the coach rolls the ball slowly, forcing the catcher to wait and then react at the right moment instead of cheating toward where they expect the ball.
How to Run This Drill
- Catcher sets up in the stance in full gear
- Coach rolls the ball slowly toward the plate; catcher waits, then reacts and blocks
- Do five slow rolls down the middle, five to the inside and five to the outside
- Coach mixes it up with harder throws and more hop as the catcher improves
- Once warm, after the block have the catcher get up, find the ball and find the runner
Coaching Points
- Wait, wait, react: the slow roll stops the catcher from cheating toward the ball early
- Hips square to the part of the plate the ball is headed
- Shoulders rounded so the ball drops back in front
- Younger kids can do it without being afraid of getting hit
Quick Actions
At a Glance
Equipment Needed
Similar Drills You Might Like
Explore more drills to build your practice plan and develop well-rounded skills
Block, Recover, Throw
Advanced catching drill adding actual throws after blocking, developing complete skill sequence for handling wild pitches with runners on.
Triple Threat
Teaches young catchers the triple threat position, where they can receive, block and throw, then trains the difference between catching a ball in the air and turning to block one in the dirt.
Block to Throw Down
Catchers practice blocking dirt balls then quickly recovering to throwing position.
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