WK's Coach's Tips

Glove Action and Pre-Pitch Preparation

Let's continue with our focus on infield defense. In the last tip, we talked about the glove and fielding position. This time we'll discuss glove action, pre-pitch movement and approach.

Glove Action

• The glove hand should be relaxed with the palm directed inward and upward.
• To help extend the arms, use a slight shoveling action from under the ball.
• Sometimes short hops require a strong positive forward movement through the ball.
• Always use a TWO-handed approach. Do not be careless with too much style.
• Strive to catch the descending hop or short hop.

Pre-Pitch Movement

• Every player needs to find and establish movement for momentum as the ball enters the hitting zone.
• As the ball enters the hitting zone, the weight becomes distributed evenly on the balls of the feet.
• Be mentally prepared for the ball to be hit to either side of you and be prepared to react.
• Experiment with techniques which increase your comfort and allow you to relax.

Approach

I cannot overemphasize the importance of footwork. Our feet are most important in successful fielding. They not only get us to the hop we want to catch which makes are hands better, but they also get us in position to make strong accurate throws. We judge ground balls with our eyes which relay a message to our feet (speed up, slow down etc.).

Anticipation is key to instinct and judgement. NEVER be suprised when the ball come your way. Anticipate the "game" before it occurs.

That's it for now. In the next session, we'll continue with infield development.

Keep your head in the game!

WK

Updated September 7, 1998