No Runners

Routine Grounder to Short

SS (6) → 1B (3)

A routine ground ball to the shortstop with nobody on. The throw goes across to first for the out — and everyone else has a job backing it up or covering a base.

Speed
0 / 3

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All 9 jobs

Ball Bag Backup

  • P
    Pitcher Backup

    Break toward first to back up the throw in case it gets away.

  • C
    Catcher Backup

    Trail the batter-runner up the line to back up first base.

  • 1B
    First Base Bag

    Cover first base, give a target, and stretch for the throw.

  • 2B
    Second Base Bag

    Cover second base in case of a wild throw.

  • 3B
    Third Base Bag

    Stay home at third and protect the line.

  • SS
    Shortstop Ball

    Field the ground ball cleanly and make a strong, accurate throw to first.

  • LF
    Left Field Backup

    Drift in behind the shortstop in case the ball gets through.

  • CF
    Center Field Backup

    Move in toward second base in case of an overthrow.

  • RF
    Right Field Backup

    Sprint in behind first base to back up the throw.

Coaching notes

Key point

The routine out is still a team play — the first baseman gives a target and everyone behind the ball backs it up.

Drill

Fungo grounders to short with a runner timing down the line; emphasize a clean transfer and an accurate throw.

Watch for

Outfielders loafing instead of backing up — one overthrow turns a routine out into two bases.