Playing strong outfield defense is one of the most underrated characteristics of any softball team. Most of the attention goes to power hitters who can bash the ball over the fence or dominating pitchers who can throw fastballs at speeds of 70 miles per hour along with risers, drops, sliders and change of pace pitches. Playing excellent outfield defense can keep batters from getting extra bases on outfield hits and can keep runs from scoring.
One-Hop Drill
Many balls that are hit to the outfield are hard line drives. The outfield will pick up the line drive on one hop and get it into the infield. It is not vital that the outfielder catch the ball on a hop, but she must keep the ball in front of her. In this drill, the coach will hit hard one-hop line drives to each outfielder. The outfielder's job is to get down on one knee, either catch or block the ball and then throw it into second base. The outfielder cannot let the ball get by her.
Throw Home Drill
Outfielders must develop a quick release along with an accurate throwing arm. Outfielders who can throw powerfully have a built-in advantage, but even those who don't have great natural arm strength must have proper mechanics. In this drill, the coach will hit five fly balls to each outfielder. Each outfielder must catch the ball while her momentum takes her forward and then throw it home. The outfielder must concentrate on accuracy, quick release and power when throwing. Footwork is vital when it comes to throwing the ball home to get the oncoming runner.
Tracking Fly Balls
Outfielders must know how to catch long drives, short pop ups and line drives. In order to get outfielders prepared, hit each outfielder at least five fly balls per practice session. The outfielder must judge the flight of the ball, move swiftly and then catch it. As the outfielder catches the ball, the coach will shout second, third or home to direct the outfielder where to throw the ball after catching it.
Backing Up the Infield
Outfielders must move and react when infielders have plays. For example, when there is a runner on first and a ground ball is hit to shortstop, the right fielder must back up the second baseman in case the shortstop makes a poor throw. On that same ground ball, the left fielder had to run so she is behind the shortstop in case the ground ball got through here. Outfielders must know what they are going to do prior to each swing of the bat and can not stand still. Outfielders need to be proactive if they are going to play strong defense. In this drill, the coach will hit three ground balls to each infielder and the outfielders must react as if it were hit in a competitive game.
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