Category: Infield
Type: Drill
BUCKET
I have a drill that I run every so often that the kids really enjoy. This drill is designed to teach the kids to get rid of the ball and not hold it. As coaches, we are trying to avoid the situation of young kids sometimes getting confused and holding the ball.
The drill consists of your squad broken into two teams. The first team will line up, one behind the other, in the shortstop position. The others line up behind first base. A five-gallon bucket is placed upside down on first base. A coach will drop a ball in front of the first person in line. The player has 3 seconds (which the coach counts out loudly) to pick up the ball and throw at the bucket. If the bucket is missed the fielders behind first will field the ball and throw it back to the coach. This drill works best with a large number of balls. You go through each team member 4-5 times and keep track of the hits. Switch sides and keep score.
We also have both teams lined up and throwing at the same time and run it on a timed basis. Be warned though, this variation involves a large number of coaches. If you have the parental involvement, the head to head is also a huge hit with the kids.
The kids thrive on the competition. This teaches quick release, fielding, throwing accuracy and keeping the throw where the first baseman can catch it. I have found success with this drill year after year.
Submitted by: Chris Morin
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