PRACTICE 14

GOAL: Getting the players more comfortable in a live game situation. The coach will watch the reactions of players when balls are hit to them.

First 5 Minutes

Talk to the players and encourage them to work hard and have fun. Concentrate on better technique today and tell the players what will be done during this practice.

Next 5 Minutes (Stretching)

Add some stretching exercises that you haven't be using previously. This will ensure that the players aren't getting lazy with this routine. Stretch legs for two minutes and stretch arms for two minutes. The last minute should be used to jog around the field once.

Next 10 Minutes (Cut-Off Drill)

Having done the cut-off drill before, this time speed is important. See how fast the ball can be thrown and caught in each line. Using three lines of four players, with the players spread apart approximately 15 feet in the outfield, the first player throws to the second player in line; the second player throws to the third player in line; the third player throws to the fourth player in line. Each player receiving the throw should be turned sideways (to his glove side) with both arms in the air to receive the throw. The fourth player will then throw the ball back to the third player, who will throw to the second player, etc., by working their way back through the line to the first player.

Coaching Point

This drill strengthens the arm, teaches how to reach cut-off man in the chest and encourages competition for the players to see which line finishes first. Speed becomes important.

Next 3 Minutes (Water Break)

Give the players time to break for water. It is extremely important for the players to remain hydrated at all times. But have them hustle back to the field.

Next 25 Minutes (Game Situations)

After the fielders are set, you'll be working as though it's a game situation. With three hitters switching up after two at-bats each, rotate those three players with three more until all players have a chance to hit. This is a great drill for hitters to keep their heads down and eyes on the ball. It also works the fielders in live situations.

End of Practice

As you did in Practice 10, have a throwing contest:

Create two teams and line them up with a good distance between each player. The ball starts at the end of one line. On your command, the players throw to the next person in line, who receives the throw (on his glove-hand side), turns and throws to the next person until they reach the last person in line. Run it again, this time going up and back. Remember to rotate the players to different spots in their line. Run it again – this time as a timed event. The team with the quickest time wins.

End practice with a lap around the bases. Then, while the players are drinking water, huddle them together for a talk. Take this time to recognize the work that was done well, but also discuss what needs improvement. Tell the players the next practice (or game) time and follow up with an email to their parents.

End practice with a lap around the bases. Then, while the players are drinking water, huddle them together for a talk.

By now, you may be well into your season. Take this time to recognize the improvement since the first practice. Tell the players the next practice (or game) time and follow up with an email to their parents.