Defense is among the most important aspects in competitive softball. Games are often low-scoring and close, because pitching is usually dominant. As a result, playing excellent defense is a requirement for any team that wants to win consistently. You simply can't give your opponent extra outs and extra bases. Outfield defense requires athleticism, quick thinking, and excellent fundamentals from the players.
Going Back on the Ball
In order to play effective defense, outfielders cannot play too deep, or they will let catchable balls fall in for hits. But playing at shallow or moderate depths means outfielders must learn how to go back on the ball. In this drill, the outfielder will attempt to catch five fly balls, running toward the fence to catch the ball. When the coach hits the ball, drift backward while running at an angle. This will allow you to keep your eye on the ball. Gauge where the ball will go, and sprint to that area with your glove extended. Don't hesitate. If you feel you are going to overrun the ball, slow down --- but get to the spot at full speed, then slow your stride in order to make the play.
Play Goalie
When you play outfield, you are the last line of defense --- you cannot let any line drive or ground-ball hit get past you and cost your team extra bases. To keep the ball from getting through you, you must take a hockey goalie's mentality when that hard one-hopper comes at you. In this drill, get right in front of the ball, then get down on one knee to make sure you stop the ball. It does not matter if you catch the ball, but you must keep it in front of your. Do this five times to prepare for game action.
Hit the Cutoff
Outfielders must prevent opponents from taking extra bases by getting the ball back to the infield quickly. This is done by hitting the cutoff infielder. Outfielders must realize that when they have to go back on the ball, they will not be expected to throw it home on the fly. Trying to do so will likely result in a balloon-like rainbow that will come down too late to get the runner. Instead, you must hit the shortstop or the second baseman with a hard, low throw; she will catch the ball and fire the same kind of throw to the catcher if an opposing base runner is trying to score. In this drill, the coach will hit you line drives and fly balls of varying depths, and your job is to get the ball in quickly to the cutoff infielder.
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