Mastering the Art of the Double Play: Drills to Elevate Your Team's Game

The double play, that magical moment where two outs are recorded on a single play, is a vital component of any successful baseball team. It can turn the tide of a game, inject energy into your dugout, and leave opposing hitters frustrated. But executing a double play requires precision, coordination, and relentless practice.

This blog post dives into some effective drills that will help you and your team sharpen those double-play skills and turn routine ground balls into highlight reel plays.

1. The Fundamental Relay:

• Purpose: Building solid footwork and communication between the second baseman and shortstop.
• Setup: Place cones 60 feet apart to simulate the distances between second and first base. Have your second baseman stationed at their regular position, while the shortstop starts slightly behind them.
• Execution: The coach throws a ground ball to the second baseman who fields it cleanly and relays it to the shortstop, who then throws to first base. Repeat this drill focusing on quick footwork, accurate throws, and clear communication ("Ball!" "Got it!").

2. The Turning Double Play:

• Purpose: Practicing proper technique for turning a double play with a runner on second.
• Setup: Similar to the Fundamental Relay, but with an additional cone representing the runner on second base.
• Execution: The coach throws a ground ball to the shortstop who fields it and steps towards second base to tag the runner. Then, they throw to first base for the out.

3. The "Pop Up" Double Play:

• Purpose: Practicing reaction time and communication under pressure.
• Setup: Place two cones at various distances (simulating pop-ups) behind second base.
• Execution: The coach throws a ground ball to the shortstop who fields it. As they throw to first, another player simulates a pop-up caught by the second baseman. The second baseman then relays the catch and any necessary information to the first baseman. This drill emphasizes quick thinking and adaptability.

4. Simulated Game Situation:

• Purpose: Putting all the skills together in a game-like environment.
• Setup: Have your team play simulated innings, focusing on specific double-play scenarios they might encounter.
• Execution: Coaches can call for various types of ground balls and runners on base to challenge their ability to react under pressure and execute precise plays.

Beyond Drills: Building a Successful Double Play Unit:

• Communication is Key: Encourage constant communication between infielders, even before the ball is hit.
• Know Your Positions: Understand your role in each double-play situation.
• Practice Under Pressure: Simulate game situations during drills to build confidence and quick thinking.
• Analyze and Adjust: Watch recordings of practice and games to identify areas for improvement.

By implementing these drills consistently and fostering a culture of teamwork and communication, you can elevate your team's double-play capabilities and turn those routine plays into game-changing moments. Remember, practice doesn't make perfect, but it makes progress! Let's illustrate the power of these drills with some real-life examples:

The Fundamental Relay: Imagine a young second baseman, let's call him Jimmy. He's eager but hesitant when fielding ground balls, worried about making an error and throwing it wide. By consistently practicing The Fundamental Relay drill, Jimmy starts feeling more confident. His footwork becomes quicker, his throws are more accurate, and most importantly, he develops a rhythm with the shortstop. This builds trust and communication, turning them into a formidable double-play duo.

The Turning Double Play: Think about a crucial moment in a close game. The bases are loaded, two outs, and a ground ball is hit to the shortstop. This requires more than just a clean relay. It demands quick thinking and decisive action. A seasoned shortstop, like Derek Jeter, would execute The Turning Double Play flawlessly. He fields the ball cleanly, takes a step towards second base to tag the runner, and then throws with accuracy to first base for the crucial out. This maneuver not only ends the inning but also sends a wave of energy through his team.

The "Pop Up" Double Play: Now picture a game where the tension is palpable. It's the bottom of the ninth, tied score, and a ground ball comes into play. The shortstop fields it, throws to first, but suddenly, a pop-up arises behind second base. This requires lightning-fast reflexes and clear communication.

A player like Andrelton Simmons, known for his exceptional defensive skills, would effortlessly catch the pop-up while simultaneously relaying the information to the first baseman. His quick thinking prevents an extra base hit and potentially saves the game.

Simulated Game Situation: During practice, coaches often set up Simulated Game Situations. A team like the Atlanta Braves might be practicing their double play turns with runners on base, simulating various scenarios they could face during a tight game. This drill helps players adapt to pressure situations and make split-second decisions under duress.

By incorporating these drills into their training routine, teams can develop a strong foundation for executing successful double plays. The result? More outs recorded, fewer runs allowed, and ultimately, more victories on the field.

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