Up-tempo Practice Ideas

20 Minute Drill

Stage 1:

C→3B Steals

P→1B Pickoffs

SS→2B Dbl. play feeds

Outfielders in middle of field rolling DP balls to SS and at a short pitcher in

front of plate throwing to catcher for steals. All pitchers have their own ball.

Stage 2:

C→SS Steals at 2^nd base

P→3B Pickoffs

1B→2B Bunts to first w/2^nd baseman covering line to the 3^rd base side of mound.

(Outfielders rolling bunts to 1st baseman and at short pitcher throwing to catcher

for steals. The pitchers must move their line.)

Stage 3:

C→1B Pickoffs back door from plate

2B→SS Dbl. play feeds

P→3B Bunts w/pitcher covering left side

(Outfielders rolling DP balls to 2nd , at short pitcher for catcher to 1st pickoffs,

and rolling bunts to 3^rd base side for pitchers.)

Stage 4:

P→2B/SS pickoffs at 2^nd base

3B→1B Bunt plays to first

C→ Blocking balls/Foul balls/Framing .

(Outfielders rolling bunts to 3rd baseman and throwing to catchers. Catchers take

stage off from throwing.)

Stage 5:

1^st and 3^rd defense with C,3B,SS,2B

Pitchers covering first base on ground ball

(C for 1st and 3rd defense, rolling balls to

1st baseman w/ P covering, and as base runners at 3rd base. Pitcher line on 1st base side of mound.)

Note: All but the feeds for Dbl. plays begin on the pitchers movement. Pitchers should always have a ball

in their hand. Pitcher should always work off the stretch. Outfielders should always have a ball in their

hand.

Suggestions:

Stage 6: Bunt coverage to all bases with outfielders rolling bunts and running bases.

Stage 7: Pitcher PFP to all bases with outfielders running bases.

Stage 8: Pop ups on infield. Communication.

Depending on gym size, these can be somewhat chaotic. Make sure you emphasize being alert and paying attention!