With a runner on second and a ground ball hit to short or third, the fielder has a decision. Throw to first for the easy out, or look the runner back to second first. Most kids panic and throw to first while the runner advances. The right play depends on the speed of the runner and the score.
What you need: A full infield, a runner, a coach with a bat.
Setup: Runner on second. Standard infield. Coach at home plate.
How to run it:
- Coach hits a ground ball. Could be to short, third, second, or pitcher.
- Runner advances based on where the ball is hit.
- Fielder catches and decides:
- Ball hit to third or short with runner running: look the runner back, then throw to first.
- Ball hit to second or first with runner running: throw to third to get the lead runner.
- Do 8 reps with the coach hitting to different positions.
- After each rep, ask: “Did you make the right decision?”
What to watch: Did the fielder hold the ball or throw immediately? Holding the ball for a half-second to look the runner back is sometimes the right move. Always-throwing-to-first is wrong sometimes.
If they’re struggling: Drop the runner. Just have them practice fielding and throwing to different bases on command.
If they’ve got it: Add the time pressure. Use a stopwatch. The runner has to beat the throw.