Better Coaches Coaching Drill: Shortstop Double Play Feeds

Allow middle infielders to understand the relationship between the distance from the bag and the type of feed needed.
Provide repetitions for skill acquisition.

With 2-3 people set up in double play depth around second base (double play depth requires the infielders to move approximately three strides towards home plate and four strides towards second base), the feeder roles the ball underhand towards the bag, on the shortstop side.
The infielder fields the ball and flips it to the second baseman standing on the bag. This is repeated, waiting each time for the infielder to setup properly.

There are three types of feeds when starting a double play (start with the feed closest to the bag, then work away):
Underhand Flip - the infielder should keep their throwing arm straight while delivering the ball. The glove should be cleared away, allowing the second baseman to see the ball.
Toss - allow the infielder to field the ball in the middle of their body or slightly to their right side for a quick transfer from fielding to throwing. The infielder should also open their stance a little which will result in an easier path to deliver the baseball.
Backhand Toss - the infielder should field the ball out in front of the body, allowing the infielder to follow the ball into their glove. At first, have players concentrate on transfering the ball from the glove to the hand. Once they are comfortable with that part of the skill, incorporate the pivot and throw.

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