Double Plays

3-6-3 Double Play

1B (3) → SS (6) → 1B (3)

A ground ball to the first baseman with a runner on first. He throws to the shortstop covering second, then sprints back to first for the return throw.

Speed

0 / 5

Press Watch the Play to run the sequence, or tap any player to study their job.

All 9 jobs

Ball Bag Backup

P

Pitcher Backup

Break toward first as insurance in case the first baseman can't get back in time.
C

Catcher Backup

Trail the batter-runner to back up first base.
1B

First Base Ball

Field it, throw to second, then sprint back to first for the return.
2B

Second Base Backup

Back up the throw at second base.
3B

Third Base Bag

Cover third base.
SS

Shortstop Bag

Cover second base, touch the bag, and relay back to first.
LF

Left Field Backup

Back up second base from the left.
CF

Center Field Backup

Back up second base.
RF

Right Field Backup

Back up first base.

Coaching notes

Key point

On the 3-6-3 the first baseman must get rid of it quickly and immediately sprint back to the bag for the return throw.

Drill

3-6-3 footwork: first baseman fields, throws to short, and races back; the pitcher always breaks over as a safety valve.

Watch for

The first baseman admiring his throw instead of hustling back — if he's late, the pitcher must be there (3-6-1).