The guardian

Le gardien

Green Cap – Receiving

 

With a partner or a coach standing at home plate, roll or hit the ball on the ground at approximately 5-10 feet to the player’s left and to the player’s right. The objective is for the player to catch 3 out of 5 grounders to the left and 3 out of 5 grounders to the right. If the coach is not good using the bat, simply roll the ball. Below is a drill that can be used to prepare players for this task:

 

“THE GUARDIAN”

 

Goal:                  Teach players a safe way to field a ground ball

 

Description:     In pairs or with an adult, players, players practice fielding the ball (one knee down).

 

Variations & Progression:

A.          The players simulate the action without a ball

B.           Same with a stationary ball

C.           The coach rolls a ball and the players field the ball

D.          The coach rolls the ball, the players field and throw the ball

 

Key Points:

•            Put one knee on the ground

•            Upper body must be behind the ball

•            Always face the ball