A cutoff player is the relay between the outfield and the base. Positioning is critical. They stand in a line with the outfielder and the base so they can catch and relay in one motion.
What you need: Full field, balls, outfielders, cutoff players, bases.
Setup: Outfielders in the field. Cutoff player 50 feet from an outfielder, in line with the base. Runner advancing from a prior base.
How to run it:
- Outfielder catches or fields the ball and throws to the cutoff.
- Cutoff catches and relay throws to the base (home, second, or third).
- Base player catches and makes the tag or throw.
- Do 5 relays to home. Do 5 to second. Do 5 to third.
- Vary the outfielder positions (left, center, right). Track accuracy and timing.
What to watch: Is the cutoff in line with the outfielder and the base? If not, the angle is off and the relay is slow. Is the cutoff facing the base before the throw arrives?
If they’re struggling: Have the cutoff stand still. Outfielder throws and cutoff catches only. Add the relay throw after 5 reps.
If they’ve got it: Add communication. Cutoff yells the direction before catching (home, second, third). Add runners to game-speed situations.