Game version
Fielding game: a partner rolls ground balls and you field and throw to a cone. The pair counts clean plays, then swaps.
First-and-Third Defense
Choose a team play when runners are on first and third and the runner on first steals.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
The coach calls the play before each rep: throw through, cut, or hold the ball.
Core: Medium. Beat your own best of clean plays out of 10.
- Ages
- 14 and up
- Time
- 15 min
- Space
- Yard or field
- Bring
- Gloves, softballs, bases, team
- Level · skill
- Advanced · Fielding
The steps
How it works
- The coach calls the play before each rep: throw through, cut, or hold the ball.
- Runners go on the pitch.
- Everyone moves to their spot and the catcher makes the call.
- Do 12 reps and talk about each.
Coaching point
Know the play before the pitch.
Safety: Runners slide feet first only; nobody blocks the base without the ball. A fielder's face mask is recommended for the pitcher and corners.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Pick a level: Less (slow rolls), Core (medium), More (to your sides). Beat your own best of clean plays out of 10.
Story
You are the shortstop in the big game, and every clean play is a big play.
My best
Beat your own count
Beat your own best of clean plays out of 10. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
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