Hits to the outfield
Hits to the outfield are the plays where a clean first step keeps a single from becoming extra bases. The defense has to field the ball, build the relay lane, cover the lead base, and back up the throw without everyone chasing the ball.
5 plays
Choose a play
Showing all 5 plays.
- 1B, 2B · 1 out Single to right with runners on 1st and 2nd Single · Right field
- Bases empty · 1 out Single to left field with bases empty Single · Left field
- Bases empty · 1 out Single to right field with bases empty Single · Right field
- 1B · 1 out Single to left field with runner on 1st Single · Left field
- 1B · 1 out Single to right field with runner on 1st Single · Right field
No plays match these filters. Try a different runner setup or number of outs.
When to use it
When to practice these plays
- Use these plays when a ball reaches left, center, or right field and runners may advance more than one base.
- Teach them before scrimmages so outfielders, middle infielders, corners, pitcher, and catcher know their first move.
- Review them when your team throws to the wrong base or leaves a bag uncovered after an outfield hit.
Common mistakes
What to watch
- Outfielders holding the ball while deciding where to throw.
- Middle infielders arriving late to the cutoff lane or lining up on the wrong side of the field.
- Corner defenders leaving third or first uncovered because they follow the ball instead of owning the bag.
- Pitchers watching the play instead of backing up the plate or the correct base.