BVSA Teaches: Techniques for Backhanding a groundball
On this episode of BVSA Teaches, Frank Ramppen talks about techniques for backhanding a groundball. Hey guys, today we’re going to talk about backhanding a ground ball, and there are several different ways to do it. To be a good infielder, you need to be able to do them all. I know many coaches at the young ages teach their players to get in front of every ball they can, and I think that’s a good plan. However, there is one backhand technique that is much easier when you’re coming through the ball and changing direction than trying to get around it.
So, let’s talk about the basic backhand drills and positioning. First of all, you need to focus on your prep step, which we discussed before. As the pitch is thrown, the ball enters the hitting zone, and you should be landing in your ready position. Your left foot should be down on the ground, ready to react immediately.
Now, let’s say you’re playing shortstop and the ball is hit to your backhand side. Don’t stand up and run towards the ball or pivot your feet. Meanwhile, the reaction should be to stay low, cross over, and head for the ball. You need to stay low and get your head behind the glove and ball while keeping your glove open.
There are two ways to field the ground ball in this backhand situation. In the first method, you reach out with your left foot forward. You’re staying low and trying to get your head in behind the glove and ball. Make sure to keep your glove open and prevent it from turning. This technique is useful when the ball is hit hard.
Second Method for Backhands
The second method is based on timing. Again, you start by crossing over with a right-left movement towards the ball. In this case, your right foot reaches out to make the play. This technique is more like a “foot butt”. You’re keeping your head behind the ball, your glove open, and prevent it from turning.
After fielding the ball using either of these techniques, you need to put the brakes on and throw the ball back. You can either take baby steps and then step and throw or perform a jump throw if you have a strong arm. The jump throw involves fielding off your left and throwing off your right, simulating a throw off your right foot while you’re in the air. Obviously, it requires good arm strength and can be practiced separately.
For more information on backhanding a groundball, click the video below!
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