GLENBROOK NORTH HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PROGRAM Infield System GBN BASEBALL 2016 ALL WORK KNOW PLAY THE RIGHT WAY
OUTFIELD PLAY THE SPARTAN WAY INFIELDER ABSOLUTES ABSOLUTES FOR ALL INFIELDERS AT ALL TIMES 1. KNOW WHAT TO DO AND WHERE TO BE ON ALL PLAYS A. Mentally prepare prior to every pitch B. Communicate with teammates before every pitch C. Every infielder has a responsibility on every play 2. PREP STEP AND FIRST STEP ON ALL PITCHES A. Win the 15 seconds between pitches B. Anticipate contact and respond accordingly 3. KEEP ALL BALLS THAT HIT THE GROUND IN FRONT OF YOU A. Square up your body to the baseball B. Work from low to high 4. SEPARATE ALL PLAYS IN THE INFIELD A. Make the fielding play first B. Make the appropriate throw second
INFIELD PLAY THE SPARTAN WAY INFIELDER FUNDAMENTALS I. Characteristics and Qualities of an Infielder A. Quick feet (get in position) B. Soft hands (absorb the baseball by flexing elbow) C. Quick reflexes (be able to handle tough hops) D. Courage (get in front of the ball) E. Agile (athletically coordinated) F. Fluidness (be smooth) G. Anticipation (know what to do with the baseball) H. Confidence (want the ball hit to you) II. Pre-Pitch Stance and Thoughts A. Feet are parallel and close together (narrow width) B. Weight is on the balls of your feet C. Knees are slightly flexed D. Shoulders are upright E. Position of the glove hand arm
1. elbow is relaxed at side 2. thumb is held in a linear position F. Throwing hand arm is relaxed at side 1. elbow is relaxed at side 2. thumb is held in a linear position G. Receive the pitch being called H. Communication to the other fielders 1. relay the pitch to the outfielders 2. middle infielders confirm the coverage of second base I. Want and expect every batted ball to be hit to you J. Mentally review your assignments according to the situation 1. outs 2. batter 3. baserunner(s) 4. ground balls 5. line drives 6. fly balls 7. base hits K. Eyes on the pitcher L. Take a deep breathe through your nose, hold it, and exhale through your mouth III. Prep Steps A. Check runner(s) for action when pitcher breaks the set position 1. eyes then move to the pitcher until he nears his release point B. Eyes then move to the contact area 1. do not follow the flight path of the baseball 2. eyes soft focus on the home plate region 3. eyes then fine focus on contact C. Prep steps 1. keep your feet underneath your body (stay on your legs) 2. distance from home plate dictates the finishing position of prep steps a. closer lower b. further higher 3. finish with elbows at ninety degree angles and thumbs up D. Various prep steps 1. right / left 2. right / left / hop 3. left / right 4. left / right / hop 5. hop 6. right (half step) / left (full step) / right (half step)
7. left (half step) / right (full step) / left (half step) 8. left / hop 9. right / hop E. Weight is evenly distributed on the balls of your feet as the baseball enters the contact area F. Anticipate the direction of the contact 1. the type of pitch 2. location of the pitch 3. timing of the swing G. Quickly crossover in the direction of the contact or swing 1. fair ball 2. foul ball 3. swing with no contact H. Eliminate the possibility of a delay steal (when no contact is made) 1. move eyes to runner at first base 2. take two steps in the direction of second base IV. Approach to a Ground Ball A. Get to the right of the ground ball (get it to your glove-side) 1. creates positive momentum in the direction of the intended throwing target 2. easier to read the distances between the hops of the baseball 3. show the baseball the palm of the glove throughout the entire approach B. Slowly descend to field the baseball (similar to an airplane landing) C. Fielding sequence 1. right foot 2. left foot (V-step) 3. hands extend in front of feet 4. fielding triangle is formed V. Proper Fielding Position A. Feet are parallel and wider than shoulder-width apart B. Weight is on the balls of your feet C. Glove side foot is slightly staggered back (toe to in-step relationship) D. Shoulders stay square to the baseball E. Head is up and eyes are on the baseball F. Bend at the knees and drop your hips and butt (not lower back) G. Thighs are parallel to the ground
H. Have a forward lean to obtain a semi-flat back I. Create the fielding triangle 1. glove hand extended in front of feet (keep bend in elbow) 2. relaxed elbow and wrist create the proper glove angle (everyone has soft hands) 3. glove is aligned off of your glove side eye (inside of glove-side knee) J. Throwing hand closes from the top down (finger tips up) VI. Creating Hops A. The speed of the ball dictates the amount of time an infielder has to make adjustments. B. The speed and trajectory of contact dictates the distance between hops. C. The speed and trajectory both play a role in the infielder creating his hop. D. Fielding a ground ball successfully is dictated by the infielder s ability to create his hop. E. Types of hops 1. top of the hop 2. bottom of the hop 3. short hop 4. up hop F. Three out of the four possible hops are fielder hops. G. When an infielder develops the ability to create his hop, fielding a ground ball becomes a game of catch below the waist. VII. Fielding a Ground Ball A. Eyes on the baseball (eyes take the ball and head to the glove) B. Watch the baseball into your glove (see button on top of the hat) C. Execute a quick transfer from your glove hand to your bare hand (covering the baseball) 1. turn glove clock-wise to execute transfer (pinkie down) 2. do not catch the baseball / redirect the baseball to barehand D. Absorb the baseball one-fourth of the way into your body (elbow near stomach) 1. maintain flexion in your glove side elbow 2. do not bring hands to stomach (eliminate funneling) VII. Throwing the Baseball A. After the transfer has taken place gradually ascend to make the throw (similar to an airplane taking off)
B. Power step with throwing arm foot / Replace your feet C. Plant a block step in the direction of your intended target D. Close your front shoulder towards your target E. Step to your target with your glove hand foot (foot at forty-five degrees) F. Obtain a proper grip on the baseball (4-seam grip) G. Create a small arc with your throwing arm H. Eyes on your target I. Maintain a strong front side (glove up) J. Bring your body to your glove K. Nose to leather (continue your momentum towards your intended throwing target)
INFIELD PLAY THE SPARTAN WAY INFIELDER PROCESS A SIX STEP PROCESS DESIGNED FOR ALL INFIELDERS TO FINISH PLAYS 1. FEET 2. FIELD 3. FLEX 4. FOOTWORK 5. FIRE 6. FOLLOW
INFIELD PLAY THE SPARTAN WAY CREATING A HOP SHORT HOP UP HOP TOP OF THE HOP DOWN HOP CREATING A HOP ALLOWS THE SKILL OF FIELDING A GROUND BALL TO BECOME A GAME OF CATCH BELOW THE WAIST
INFIELDER PREP STEPS SHOULDERS OVER THE KNEES OVER THE TOES LEVEL EYES THUMB UP 90 DEGREE ELBOWS THE CLOSER TO HOME PLATE THE LOWER YOU SHOULD GET 90 DEGREE ELBOWS ATHLETIC POSITION DYNAMICALLY BALANCED EQUAL WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION THUMB UP SHOULDERS OVER THE KNEES OVER THE TOES STAY ON THE BALLS OF YOUR FEET
INFIELDER HEEL TO TOE
INFIELDER HEEL TO TOE
INFIELDER PROPER POSITION HEAD UP EYES ON THE BASEBALL BEND AT THE KNEES AND LOWER BACK WITH A FORWARD LEAN GLOVE IS BETWEEN GLOVE- SIDE EYE AND KNEE BARE HAND CLOSING FROM THE TOP DOWN GLOVE OPEN (PALM UP) ELBOW IS FLEXED FIELDING TRIANGLE HANDS OUT FRONT FLAT BACK EYES ON THE BASEBALL SOFT ELBOW WEIGHT ON THE BALLS OF HIS FEET LOOSE WRIST 45 DEGREE GLOVE ANGLE
INFIELDER PROPER POSITION BEND AT THE KNEES AND THE WAIST WITH A FORWARD LEAN GLOVE OPEN / PALM UP HANDS OUT IN FRONT TOE TO IN-STEP RELATIONSHIP GLOVE POSITIONED BETWEEN GLOVE-SIDE EYE AND KNEE BAREHAND CLOSING FROM THE TOP DOWN GLOVE OPEN PALM UP SINK YOUR HIPS EYES ON THE BASEBALL THE LOWER THE HOP THE LOWER YOU GET
INFIELDER PROPER POSITION
INFIELDER PROPER POSITION
INFIELDER PROPER POSITION
INFIELDER PROPER POSITION
INFIELDER FIELDING TRIANGLE
INFIELDER LOW TO HIGH
INFIELDER STRONG GLOVE HAND
INFIELDER STRONG GLOVE HAND
MENTAL PREPARATION THE SPARTAN WAY INFIELDER PRE-PITCH ROUTINE Prior to each pitch during an at-bat, all successful infielders perform a routine to prepare themselves for the next pitch. This routine allows the fielder to focus and concentrate on what is truly necessary. This routine not only offers mental and physical benefits, it also offers emotional and physiological benefits as well. This is what infielders call upon in situations in which execution is essential. Successful infielders utilize their personal routine prior to every pitch. All successful infield prepitch routines include a DEEP BREATH. WHAT IS YOUR ROUTINE?
MENTAL PREPARATION THE SPARTAN WAY INFIELD ERRORS Defensive errors are going to occur in the game of baseball. Some errors are directly related to throwing while other errors are directly related to fielding. When an error occurs (and they will occur), the most important thing is how we respond to the situation. Having a prepared confident response gives us the greatest chance to be successful on future chances by allowing ourselves to play in the now. Being able to let go of the past and play in the current moment is a skill that must be acquired in order to play at the highest level. Confident Response to an Infield Error 1. Take off your glove and place it in your throwing hand (in control / let it go). 2. POSITIVE (self-talk / focal point) 3. FOCUS (situation / signs) 4. RELAX (breathe deep)
GLENBROOK NORTH HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PROGRAM Defensive Positioning GBN BASEBALL 2016 ALL WORK KNOW PLAY THE RIGHT WAY
TEAM DEFENSE THE SPARTAN WAY DEFENSIVE POSITIONING Defensive positioning will be used with every new hitter and is designed to place our defense to properly execute the demands of our team defensive philosophy. A combination of scouting information and a positioning scheme will be used to cover the highest percentage of necessary fair ground on the field of play. You will learn how to play a zone defense. The goal in the game of baseball is to cover as much fair territory as possible. Most baseballs that are put in play go towards the middle of the field. It is imperative to understand the importance of defending the middle of the field so that the foul lines are not overplayed. The ultimate goal is to have a defensive player in the area where the baseball is hit. The key point is that we need only one player to be in that area and we need to only defend against the fair ball. Proper spacing is extremely important in order to maximize our fair ball coverage. All nine defenders need to execute their responsibilities within their respective zones. It is extremely important for all nine defenders to understand that every defender has a responsibility to execute on every baseball put in play. All defensive players are required to pick up their appropriate coach with their eyes as each batter prepares to enter the dirt surrounding home plate for his at-bat. The coach who is responsible for positioning the outfielders will use a towel to relay the appropriate signs. This will eliminate any confusion when the infielders and the outfielders are receiving signs from different coaches at the same time. A defensive positioning scheme will be signaled after the following factors are considered: The inning. The score of the game. The number of outs in the inning. The type of pitcher on the mound. The velocity of the pitcher on the mound. The control of the pitcher on the mound. The pitch count on the batter at home plate. The tendencies of the batter at home plate. The power of the batter at home plate. The speed of the batter at home plate. The bases that are occupied by baserunners. The speed of the lead baserunner. The speed of the trailing baserunner(s). The range of our defensive players. The arm strength of our defensive players.
The conditions of the field (dry or wet, slow or fast). The weather conditions (sun, wind, rain, snow, temperature). The offensive tendencies of the opposing coach in past situations. As you receive defensive positioning signals from the appropriate coach, keep in mind the three different concepts and the situation within which you are playing: Alignment This concept refers to the positioning of the defenders in relation to the bases for infielders and the foul lines for outfielders. The movement to reach these desired positions is lateral. Depth This concept refers to the positioning of the defenders in relation to their respective distances from home plate for infielders and outfielders. The movement to reach these desired positions is forward or backward. Adjustment This concept refers to the special type of positioning required for specific situations.
TEAM DEFENSE THE SPARTAN WAY INFIELD POSITIONING Infield Positioning Under normal conditions, infielders should move as a group, no matter if the batter is a pull hitter or someone who hits the baseball the opposite way. All four infielders are responsible for constantly keeping an eye on the coach in the dugout who is responsible for their positioning. Infield Depths Infield Depth 1 This is the standard or starting depth at which the infielders will play with nobody on base and no threat of a bunt for a base hit. All other infield depths will be explained in relation to Infield Depth 1, so it is imperative to understand the proper positioning of this depth. If the batter is a threat to bunt for a base hit, then the first baseman and / or the third baseman may have to move closer to home plate to limit the threat. The first baseman and third baseman are 6 steps off of the base towards second base and 9 steps deep behind the baseline. The second baseman and shortstop are 6 steps away from second base towards first base and third base, respectively, and 14 steps deep behind the base line. Infield Depth 2 This is the depth at which the infielders will play when the double play is in order. This requires all infielders to shorten their distances from home plate. This is also the depth at which infielders will play when the threat of a steal, hit and run, or other possible strategies exist. Infielders should be prepared to play at this depth early in a game with a baserunner on third base and less than two outs. The first baseman will move 4 steps towards the baseline and 1 step towards first base. The first baseman may be required to hold on the baserunner at first base. The third baseman will move 4 steps towards the baseline and 1 step towards second base. The third baseman may be required to move closer if the threat of a bunt exists. He may also be allowed to move back when a two strike count is reached. The second baseman and the shortstop move 2 steps towards the baseline and two steps towards second base. Infield Depth 3 This is the depth at which infielders will play that allows them the opportunity to keep a baserunner from third base trying to score on a ground ball and maintain their range. This depth also provides the defense the opportunity to turn a ground ball double play with baserunners at first base and third base. The first baseman and third baseman will play at the back of the base lines 5 steps off of each foul line. The first baseman may be required to hold on the baserunner at first base.
The second baseman and shortstop will position themselves half way between Infield Depth 2 and the edge of the infield grass. Infield Depth 4 This is the infield depth at which infielders will play in order to keep a baserunner on third base from scoring on a ground ball. This infield depth is used late in the game when the baserunner on third base is a priority and is likely to be attempting to score on all ground balls. All infielders will position themselves on the edge of the infield grass in a direct line from Infield Depth 1 and home plate. Sliding Infield Depth 14 This is the infield depth at which all infielders will start in the standard Infield Depth 1. As the pitcher begins to deliver the pitch, all infielders will sprint forward to Infield Depth 4 in attempt to throw out the baserunner on third base who may try to score on a ground ball. It is extremely important to be under control when contact is made in order to be able to maintain your range on all batted baseballs. Sliding Infield Depth 24 This is the infield depth at which all infielders will start in Infield Depth 2. As the pitcher begins to deliver the pitch, the middle infielders will sprint forward to Infield Depth 4 in attempt to throw out the baserunner on third base who may try to score on a ground ball. It is extremely important to be under control when contact is made in order to be able to maintain your range on all batted baseballs. Sliding Infield Depth 43 This is the infield depth at which all infielders will start in Infield Depth 4. As the pitcher begins to deliver the pitch, the middle infielders will retreat to Infield Depth 3 in an attempt to increase range on all batted baseballs and create a confusing read for the baserunner on third base. It is extremely important to be under control when contact is made in order to be able to maintain your range on all batted baseballs. Non Verbal Infield Depths Signs Infield Depth 1 Both arms with the palms showing are extended in front of the chest. Note When the right arm with the palm showing is extended in front of the chest with the left hand pointing at the ground, the third baseman should move forward to take away the threat of the bunt while all remaining infielders position themselves at the standard depth. Infield Depth 2 Both arms are crossed in front of the chest and held at the same height. Infield Depth 3 Both hands are held against the chest. Infield Depth 4 Both arms are crossed in front of and held against the chest.
Sliding Infield Depth 14 Both arms with the palms showing are extended in front of the chest followed by both arms being crossed in front of and held against the chest. Sliding Infield Depth 24 Both arms are crossed in front of the chest and held at the same height followed by both arms being crossed in front of and held against the chest. Sliding Infield Depth 42 Both arms are crossed in front of and held against the chest followed by both arms being crossed in front of the chest and held at the same height. Infield Alignment Shade 1 Move 2-3 steps towards the first base line. Shade 3 Move 2-3 steps towards the third base line. Shift 1 Move 4-5 steps towards the first base line. Shift 3 Move 4-5 steps towards the third base line. No Doubles / Protect the Foul Lines The first baseman and third baseman should align themselves so that no batted baseball may travel between themselves and the foul line. This alignment will be used in late innings of a close game to eliminate the possibility of an extra base hit. Non Verbal Infield Alignment Signs Shade 1 The right arm points straight up while the left hand points to the right elbow. Shade 3 The left arm points straight up while the right hand points to the left elbow. Shift 1 The right arm points straight up while the left hand points to the right shoulder. Shift 3 The left arm points straight up while the right hand points to the left shoulder. No Doubles / Protect the Foul Lines Both the arms and the index fingers will point outward from the body.
Infield Adjustments Right Handed Hitter All infielders should move two steps to their right from their original position. Left Handed Hitter All infielders should move two steps to their left from their original position. Pitch Count When a strike is thrown, all infielders should take one step towards the opposite side of the batter. When a ball is thrown, all infielders should take one step towards the pull side of the batter. Non Verbal Infield Adjustments Signs Right Handed Hitter No sign is necessary; the adjustment is automatic. Left Handed Hitter No sign is necessary; the adjustment is automatic. Pitch Count No sign is necessary; the adjustment is automatic. First Baseman Adjustments Hold On the Baserunner Position your right foot against first base with your left foot on the foul line in order to receive all pickoff throws from the pitcher, When the pitcher delivers the pitch to home plate, crossover once and shuffle twice in order to get to the proper fielding position. Play In Front of the Baserunner Inform a RHP that you are not holding on the baserunner at first base. Be prepared to receive all possible pickoff throws from a LHP. Be prepared to field your position and turn a double play. Be alert for all snap throws from the catcher. Play Directly Behind the Baserunner Inform a RHP that you are not holding on the baserunner at first base. Be prepared to receive all possible pickoff throws from a LHP. Be prepared to field your position and turn a double play. Be alert for all snap throws from the catcher. Play Deep Behind the Baserunner Inform a RHP that you are not holding on the baserunner at first base. Be prepared to receive all possible pickoff throws from a LHP. Be prepared to field your position and secure an out. Be alert for all snap throws from the catcher.
Non Verbal First Baseman Adjustments Signs Hold On the Baserunner The left hand is holding the right wrist. Play In Front of the Baserunner The right hand is waved in front of the face. Play Directly Behind the Baserunner The right hand is waved directly behind the back. Play Deep Behind the Baserunner The right hand is extended with the palm showing in front of the chest.
INFIELD PLAY THE SPARTAN WAY INFIELD DEPTH POSITIONING CF LF RF 1 1 2 2 3 3 1 2 3 4 4 P 4 4 3 2 1 C Every infielder must look into the dugout in between every pitch.
GLENBROOK NORTH HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PROGRAM Fly Ball Defense GBN BASEBALL 2016 ALL WORK KNOW PLAY THE RIGHT WAY
FLY BALL DEFENSE THE SPARTAN WAY COMMUNICATION There are specific communication techniques used by fielders when catching fly balls. The way in which a fielder will communicate his intention of catching a fly ball is by using the command, MINE, MINE, MINE. This command is standard for the entire team. It is stated very loud so that every fielder involved in the play can hear it with no difficulty. There should not only be a command by the fielder who wishes to catch the baseball, but a reply by all other fielders in the area confirming his intent to make the play. The confirmation is, TAKE IT, followed by the first name of the fielder making the catch. General Rules 1. Never drift to a fly ball. Once a baseball is hit in the air, all fielders that have a chance of making the catch must sprint to the baseball. The fielder who is going to catch the fly ball should position himself so that he is under control and in the proper fielding position. 2. While sprinting to a fly ball, all fielders should run on the balls of their feet. This eliminates the appearance of a bouncing baseball that occurs when a fielder runs on his heels. 3. A fielder should call for the fly ball when it begins its downward flight. This will give all fielders in the area a chance to sprint to the baseball. 4. Fielders should catch the ball with their momentum moving toward their intended-throwing target if the runner(s) on base attempt to tag up. 5. All fielders in the immediate area of the fielder who is going to catch the fly ball should allow plenty of room to make the catch. If the player who called for the baseball loses sight of it, he must immediately yell, I CAN T SEE IT. The other fielders in the area would then make an attempt to catch the baseball using the communication technique previously described. 6. A priority system has been established so that when two fielders call for a fly ball at the same time they understand who has priority to make the catch. On the following page is the chart for the priority system used in this fly ball communication system.
7. When a fielder calls for a fly ball, it does not mean that he will be allowed to make the catch. If another fielder is in better position to make the catch or the ensuing throw, he should yell, NO, MINE, MINE, MINE. The fielder who originally called for the fly ball should then confirm ( TAKE IT ) his teammate s intention of making the catch. 8. At times, a fielder will have to delay his command to catch a fly ball because he is not sure he can make the catch. When no communication is heard and the ball nears the ground, it merely means no fielder thinks he can make a play on the baseball. This still leaves the possibility of a dive play for one of the fielders. Just prior to diving to catch the baseball, the fielder should yell, MINE, MINE, MINE, so that the other fielders allow him the opportunity to make the catch. Once the other fielders see a player leave his feet for the dive play, they should immediately put themselves in position to properly back up the play. 9. When a fly ball is hit directly at or over a fielder s head, he should turn to his glove side in order to sprint back to get underneath the ball and make the catch. This will make for an easier adjustment in order to make the catch. Fielders who play closest to the foul lines must remember that a ball hit directly at them will naturally carry towards the foul line. In this case, it is necessary to drop step towards the foul line. 10. When a baseball is hit on a line between two outfielders, the two converging outfielders must create a gap between themselves to avoid a collision. This is done by the centerfielder catching the baseball in a low lane (waist or below) while the adjacent outfielder (right fielder or left fielder) catches the baseball in a high lane (head or above). This enables both fielders to attempt a catch, but keeps them from following the same path to the fly ball. 11. Prior to each inning, all fielders should check the strength and direction of the wind. To check the wind, either look at a flag on the field or drop a handful of grass blades from head height. The wind may shift numerous times throughout the duration of a game so it is best to do this in the field before every inning begins. 12. Prior to each inning, all fielders should check the background upon which they will be catching a fly ball or pop up. Each fielder should determine whether there are no clouds in the sky (high sky) or many clouds in the sky (low sky). Before each inning, each fielder should also check the location of the sun to determine if it will cause difficulty at his position. Each fielder should do this prior to taking the field in case the use of sunglasses is necessary.
Infield Outfield Communication 13. When a fly ball is hit, each infielder should point to the flight path of the baseball to help each outfielder find its location. Each infielder should also communicate the depth of the baseball to each outfielder by yelling IN, IN, IN, if the fly ball is hit shallow or BACK, BACK, BACK, if the fly ball is hit deep. 14. When an outfielder runs back to catch a deep fly ball, he will have his eyes in the sky as the ball begins its downward flight, therefore, he will not be able to determine his distance from the outfield fence. The adjacent outfielder must communicate with him to help him avoid running into the outfield fence. As the outfielder who is making the catch reaches the warning track and approaches the outfield fence, the adjacent outfielder should yell REACH, REACH, REACH. The outfielder making the catch will quickly glance at the outfield fence and then relocate the baseball. After glancing at the outfield fence and relocating the baseball, the outfield making the catch should reach with his arm that is closest to the outfield fence to determine his actual distance from the outfield fence. He should do this until he determines where he will make the catch in relation to the fence. It is also important to reach with a bent arm in order to avoid injury. 15. When a fly ball is hit to the outfield, the fielder making the catch will have his eyes in the sky as the baseball begins its downward flight. Because of this, he will not be able to see the status of the runner(s) on base in regard to whether or not they are tagging up. At this point, it is critical for the infielders to communicate to the fielder making the catch exactly what the runner(s) on base are doing. 16. The fielders making the catch will rely on the third baseman to initiate the communication of what the runner(s) on base are doing in a fly ball situation. The third baseman will initiate this communication since he will have the runner(s) on base in front of him. The shortstop and second baseman will also be involved in the communication process. Whichever one of them is going into the outfield will be responsible for communicating with the outfielder making the catch. He will listen for the third baseman and then pass along that same command to the outfielder. With a runner tagging up at first base only, the first baseman can communicate the status of the runner at first base. 17. The communication from the third baseman or first baseman should not begin until the baseball begins its downward flight to the outfielder. This will allow the communicators ample time to evaluate the status of the runner(s) on base. 18. In the communication process, the first command will give the outfielder the status of the runner(s) on base. The second command will notify the outfielder where the baseball should be thrown after it is caught. Each command will be
yelled three times so that there is no confusion as to what communication is being relayed. This will also allow the outfielders to put themselves in proper position to make the catch and the ensuing throw. First Command Runner is not tagging up HALF-WAY, HALF-WAY, HALF-WAY Runner is tagging up TAG, TAG, TAG Second Command First Base ONE, ONE, ONE Second Base TWO, TWO, TWO Third Base THREE, THREE, THREE Home Plate FOUR, FOUR, FOUR 19. Anytime the fielder making the catch hears, HALF-WAY, HALF-WAY, HALF- WAY, he knows the runner on base is not tagging up (it does not indicate the distance of the runner from the base), so he does not have to rush the catch. He should be sure to make the catch and a proper transfer before accurately throwing the baseball to the cut-off man. All fielders should be careful of the baserunner who comes off of the base on a long fly ball, and then goes back to the base and tags up when the ball is caught. 20. It is important for the fielders to focus their attention to the baserunner upon which they will be able to make a play. The distance and direction of a fly ball may make it impossible to make a play on a certain baserunner. In this instance, the focus of the defense should shift to a one of the trailing runners (if any are on base).
FLY BALL DEFENSE THE SPARTAN WAY PRIORITY CHART Defensive Position Priority Over No Priority Over Pitcher No Fielder Catcher and All Infielders Catcher Pitcher First Baseman and Third Baseman First Baseman Pitcher and Catcher Second Baseman, Third Baseman, Shortstop, and Right Fielder Second Baseman Pitcher, First Baseman, and Third Baseman Shortstop and All Outfielders Third Baseman Pitcher, Catcher, and First Baseman Second Baseman, Shortstop, and Left Fielder Shortstop Pitcher, First Baseman, Second Baseman, and Third Baseman All Outfielders Left Fielder All Infielders Center Fielder Center Fielder Left Fielder, Right Fielder, and All Infielders No Fielder Right Fielder All Infielders Center Fielder
FLY BALL DEFENSE THE SPARTAN WAY COMMUNICATION AREAS CF LF RF SS 2B 3B P 1B C 1 st Fielder: MINE, MINE, MINE. 2 nd Fielder: TAKE IT. or NO. MINE, MINE, MINE.
GLENBROOK NORTH HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PROGRAM Infielder Development GBN BASEBALL 2016 ALL WORK KNOW PLAY THE RIGHT WAY
INFIELD PLAY THE SPARTAN WAY INFIELDER DEVELOPMENT Skill Progression I. Pre-Contact Preparation A. Prep Step B. One Step C. Four Steps II. III. IV. Dead Ball Approach Partner Walk (Glove) A. Front B. Forehand C. Backhand D. Slow Roller Low Ball Cone (Barehand) A. Knees B. Front C. Forehand D. Backhand E. Slow Roller High Ball Cone (Barehand Paddle) A. Knees B. Front C. Forehand D. Backhand E. Slow Roller V. Short Fungos (Paddle Training Glove) A. Knees B. Stationary C. Full Approach VI. VII. VIII. IX. Ball In Glove (B.I.G.) A. Knees B. Front C. Forehand D. Backhand E. Slow Roller Transfer A. Wall Ball (2 balls) Cut Offs and Relays A. B.I.G. (Glove) B. Soft Toss (Paddle) C. Short Toss (Training Glove) Tags A. B.I.G. (Glove) B. Soft Toss (Barehand) C. Short Toss (Training Glove) Drill Series I. Speed Ladder Tags / Picks / Turns A. One Foot In / Two Feet In B. Forward Shuffle / In and Out C. Torso Twists both directions D. Right Foot In / Left Foot In E. Lateral Shuffles both directions F. Lateral In and Out both directions II. III. IV. Hands Warm-Up (Communication) A. Behind the Back (Both Directions) B. Figure Eight (Both Directions) C. Barehand Catch (Both Hands) D. Glove Catch (Both Hands) E. Palm-Up Catch (Partner) F. Rapid Fire Transfer (Net) Short Hops (Barehand Training Glove Glove) A. Front (Including Up Hop) B. Forehand C. Backhand Hop Recognition A. One or None B. Bounce Top / Bottom / Short / Up V. Fungos (Paddle Training Glove Glove) A. Front B. Forehand C. Backhand D. Slow Roller VI. VII. VIII. IX. Range Drill A. Pick-Ups B. One Cone C. Two Cones Live Ground Balls A. Tee Work B. Soft Toss C. Short Toss Reaction Drill A. Wall Drill B. Reaction Ball Competitive Drills A. Last Man Standing (Stop Watch) B. Fielding Percentage Evaluation C. Live Ground Balls (Game) D. Perfect Game (21 Outs) E. Cut Off and Relay Race
INFIELD PLAY THE SPARTAN WAY FIRST BASEMAN DEVELOPMENT Position Specific Drill Series 1. Holding a runner and tag (short toss / machine) 2. Triplet flips (follow your flip) 3. Ground ball without holding a runner (roll ball / short fungo) A. Normal depth (out at first base with pitcher covering) B. Double play depth (turn double play with pitcher covering) 4. Ground ball after holding a runner (roll ball / short fungo) A. Less than two outs (double play) B. Two outs (finish the inning) 5. Footwork for throws from 2B / SS / 3B (dry / short toss) 6. Stretch for throws from 2B / SS / 3B (dry / short toss / machine) 7. Dirt ball picks from 2B / SS / 3B (short toss / fungo / machine) 8. Blocks from 2B / SS / 3B (short toss / fungo / machine) 9. No doubles cone drill (fungo / machine) 10. Defending bunts (dead ball / roll ball) [tennis ball / baseball] Combination Drills Series 1. Hold Pickoff / Ground Ball Double Play 2. No Hold Ground Ball Double Play / Ground Ball Pitcher Covering 3. Dirt Ball Pick Speed Ladder Dirt Ball Pick (2 throwers) 4. Pop Up Defend Bunt
INFIELD PLAY THE SPARTAN WAY FOUR ALARM FIRE FINISH EVERY PLAY 2 1 IF 3 4 COACH 1B or SCREEN IF makes four consecutive plays (1 directly at / 2 backhand / 3 forehand / 4 slow roller)
INFIELD PLAY THE SPARTAN WAY THE GAUNTLET SLOW ROLLERS 1 4 START IF 2 3 4 starts the drill by rolling the ball to IF who throws to 1 (the drill is complete after 4 slow rollers)
INFIELD PLAY THE SPARTAN WAY DAILY INFIELD DRILL The ground ball is the most common play in the game of baseball. It is vital to work on the skills that will be used most frequently throughout the course of a game and a season. It is essential to field ground balls on a daily basis. 12 MINUTE INFIELD DRILL 1B 2B 3B SS Phase 1 Field: Throw to 1 st Base Receive: 1B and 2B Field: Throw to 1 st Base Receive: 3B Field: Throw to 2 nd Base (DP) Field: Backhand / Forehand Phase 2 Field: Throw to 1 st Base Receive: 1B and 2B Field: Throw to 1 st Base Receive: SS Field: Backhand / Forehand Field: Throw to 2 nd Base (DP) Phase 3 Field: Backhand / Forehand Receive: 3B and SS Field: Throw to 2 nd Base (DP) Field: Throw to 1 st Base Field: Throw to 1 st Base Receive: 2B Phase 4 Field: Throw to 2 nd Base (DP) Receive: 3B and SS Field: Backhand / Forehand Field: Throw to 1 st Base Field: Throw to 1 st Base Receive: 1B This drill requires a minimum of two infielders at the following positions: 1B / 2B / SS. This drill also requires two coaches to hit ground balls (Coach 1 1B and 2B / Coach 2 3B and SS).
INFIELD PLAY THE SPARTAN WAY MASS INFIELD DRILLS 12 MINUTE INFIELD DRILL C 1B 2B 3B SS Phase 1 Tag Play GB to 1 st GB to Home GB to Home GB to 1 st Phase 2 Tag Play GB to Home GB to 1 st GB to 1 st GB to Home Phase 3 Back-up 1 st Receive Turn DP Feed DP Feed DP Phase 4 Back-up 1 st Feed DP Feed DP Slow Rollers Turn DP 20 MINUTE INFIELD DRILL Depth Situation Objective Phase 1 4 Phase 2 3 Phase 3 2 Phase 4 1 Phase 5 1 Runner on 3 rd 1 Out Runners on 1 st and 3 rd 1 Out Runner(s) on 1 st or 1 st and 2 nd 1 Out No runners on base 0 outs Bases loaded 2 outs Keep the runner from scoring (Throw home or look back) Flight of the ball defense (Ball will take you to the play) Turn a double play (Great front end feeds) Make the play at 1 st base (Get the lead-off batter out) Slow rollers Make play at 1 st (Finish with bare hand plays) DOUBLE PLAY DRILL SERIES C 1B 2B 3B SS Phase 1 6 2 3 5 4 3 6 2 3 5 4 3 5 4 3 6 2 3 Phase 2 5 2 3 5 2 3 6 4 3 6 4 3 5 2 3 6 4 3 Phase 3 3 2 3 3 2 3 4 6 3 Short 1B for 4 6 3 4 6 3 Phase 4 4 2 3 3 6 3 4 2 3 Short 1B for 4 2 3 3 6 3 SPECIAL DOUBLE PLAYS Phase 5 2 5 3 2 6 3 3 6 5 3 6 3 2 4 3 2 4 6 5 5 3 5 6 3 6 3 2
RANGE DRILL SERIES Round 1B 2B 3B SS Phase 1 Sprint Towards 1 st Towards 2 nd Towards 3 rd Towards 2 nd Phase 2 Sprint Away 1 st Away 2 nd Away 3 rd Away 2 nd Phase 3 Response Read Read Read Read Phase 4 No Doubles Protect Line Protect Gaps Protect Line Protect Gaps FLY BALL DRILL SERIES Phase 1 Round 1B 2B 3B SS Shallow Mound Foul Territory Back of Mound Mound Foul Territory Back of Mound Phase 2 Flares 1 st Base Line Right CF Gap 3 rd Base Line Left CF Gap Phase 3 Deep Foul Territory RF Line / CF Foul Territory LF Line / CF Phase 4 Line Drives Vary Depths Vary Depths Vary Depths Vary Depths 12 MINUTE INFIELD DRILL C 1B 2B 3B SS Phase 1 Tag Play Receive Feed DP GB to Home GB to 1 st Phase 2 Tag Play Receive GB to Home GB to 1 st Feed DP Phase 3 Tag Play Receive GB to 1 st Feed DP GB to Home ROUTINE GROUND BALL DRILL SERIES Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 Round 1B 2B 3B SS Receive from 2B Middle Receive from SS GB to 1 st GB to 1 st GB to 1 st Receive from 3B Receive from 2B Backhand Receive from SS GB to 1 st GB to 1 st GB to 1 st Receive from 3B Receive from 2B Forehand Receive from SS GB to 1 st GB to 1 st GB to 1 st Receive from 3B
INFIELD PLAY THE SPARTAN WAY THE INTERNAL INFIELDER CLOCK There are certain times that will virtually guarantee consistent defensive success in the infield. Learning the proper duration to complete a specified play will allow each infielder to work within the clock that ticks in the mind of each player. It is vital to set the clock of each infielder in practice on a regular basis. Defensive Play Base Hit Bunt Prevent Ground Ball Double Play Double Play Turn Time < 4.0 seconds < 4.1 seconds < 4.1 seconds < 1.3 seconds
INFIELDER EVALUATION FIELDING PERCENTAGE 3B: SS: 2B: 1B: 1 51 1 51 1 51 1 51 2 52 2 52 2 52 2 52 3 53 3 53 3 53 3 53 4 54 4 54 4 54 4 54 5 55 5 55 5 55 5 55 6 56 6 56 6 56 6 56 7 57 7 57 7 57 7 57 8 58 8 58 8 58 8 58 9 59 9 59 9 59 9 59 10 60 10 60 10 60 10 60 11 61 11 61 11 61 11 61 12 62 12 62 12 62 12 62 13 63 13 63 13 63 13 63 14 64 14 64 14 64 14 64 15 65 15 65 15 65 15 65 16 66 16 66 16 66 16 66 17 67 17 67 17 67 17 67 18 68 18 68 18 68 18 68 19 69 19 69 19 69 19 69 20 70 20 70 20 70 20 70 21 71 21 71 21 71 21 71 22 72 22 72 22 72 22 72 23 73 23 73 23 73 23 73 24 74 24 74 24 74 24 74 25 75 25 75 25 75 25 75 26 76 26 76 26 76 26 76 27 77 27 77 27 77 27 77 28 78 28 78 28 78 28 78 29 79 29 79 29 79 29 79 30 80 30 80 30 80 30 80 31 81 31 81 31 81 31 81 32 82 32 82 32 82 32 82 33 83 33 83 33 83 33 83 34 84 34 84 34 84 34 84 35 85 35 85 35 85 35 85 36 86 36 86 36 86 36 86 37 87 37 87 37 87 37 87 38 88 38 88 38 88 38 88 39 89 39 89 39 89 39 89 40 90 40 90 40 90 40 90 41 91 41 91 41 91 41 91 42 92 42 92 42 92 42 92 43 93 43 93 43 93 43 93 44 94 44 94 44 94 44 94 45 95 45 95 45 95 45 95 46 96 46 96 46 96 46 96 47 97 47 97 47 97 47 97 48 98 48 98 48 98 48 98 49 99 49 99 49 99 49 99 50 100 50 100 50 100 50 100 Total: / Total: / Total: / Total: / Fielding %: Fielding %: Fielding %: Fielding %: