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Ground balls in the infield

Ground balls in the infield look simple until runners are moving. These plays show which out matters, who covers the bag, where the batter-runner goes, and how the rest of the defense protects against an overthrow.

Choose a play Teaching notes

5 plays

Choose a play

Showing all 5 plays.

When to use it

When to practice these plays

  • Use these plays for routine grounders with runners aboard, especially when the defense has a force option.
  • Teach them before infield practice so players understand the ball, bag, backup, and trail jobs together.
  • Review them when players throw across the diamond without checking the easier force or lead-runner play.

Common mistakes

What to watch

  • Fielders rushing the throw before setting their feet.
  • Middle infielders drifting off the bag before the force is complete.
  • Corners chasing the ball and leaving third or first open for advancing runners.
  • Outfield backups reacting too late because they assume an infield grounder will stay in the infield.