Removing the variable in a double play

Learning Objective

Utilize a back foot skip to control velocity on throws to 2nd base

Skill Deficiency

Ability to throw to 2nd base at a consistent speed

Personal Ideology

Whether it is a throw, flip, pitch or underhand toss, the speed at which the Shortstop transfers the ball to the 2nd baseman is a variable. If the throw is too slow, this will then cause the 2nd baseman to way on the ball and disrupt his cadence in turning two. Same goes for the ball moving too fast, the 2nd baseman’s reaction may not match it. So from this creates a variable that Shortstops need to control to create some consistency the 2nd Baseman could rely on to not make as many adjustment on their way to/around 2nd base.

By nature a ball in the 6 hole a SS’s reaction is to get the ball across the diamond quick — turning two or throwing a runner out at 1st. Here comes our skip. As shown on the video below, pushing off your right foot creating a subtle skip helps create an internal clock to get your arm in tune with your bottom half and creates a type of rhythm fielders typically use. This rhythm usually is right foot then left to move your body to change the direction of the ball but this movement is right and right but still sets the same cadence as the other.

Just another tool to add in your infielders tool belt that they might have to use. In the end your athletes going to have to make a decision on which tool they are going to use to field the ball. Ultimately, all you can do is provide them a platform to sharpen them.