Ground balls in the infield

Ground ball to short with runner on 3rd, infield in

Shortstop charges the ball and the defense cuts down the run at home before worrying about first base.

P C 1B 2B SS 3B LF CF RF R3 BR Ball

Starting look Starting spots Start with a runner on 3rd, 1 out, and the defense in its ready spots before the ground ball to shortstop.

Coaching point

Get the runner at home first.

  • Ground balls in the infield
  • Ground ball

Player jobs

Every defender's assignment

Teach the simple version first, then run the steps again until each player can say the job out loud.

P Pitcher

Back up home on the third-base side as soon as the ball is hit.

C Catcher

Own the plate and give shortstop a calm target.

1B First Base

Stay home at first in case the defense gets a second play later.

2B Second Base

Protect second and be ready if the runner stops halfway.

SS Shortstop

Charge under control and get the out at home first.

3B Third Base

Hold third so the runner from third cannot easily retreat.

LF Left Field

Back up third in case the runner gets trapped after stopping.

CF Center Field

Shade toward left-center so the outfield stays balanced.

RF Right Field

Stay ready for a late throw across the diamond if the play keeps going.