Double Play Turns – 2B is an infield drill designed to introduce, teach, and train the double play turn from the 2B position.

EXECUTION – This drill is run at the second base area, close to 2nd base bag, and also involves a catch net and two cones.  The athlete line will form behind first cone, while the ‘live’ athlete will step forward to second cone (closer to the 2nd base bag).  All throws will be made to the net.

Introduction – Begin the rill by first walking through proper footwork of the second baseman’s turn.  Position additional cones around the base to guide the feet and make sure all understand and feel the proper footwork.  Use keywords: Left, Right, Left

• Left – Left foot plants on top of SS side of second base bag.  Right foot can tap the ground as they wait for the feed.
• Right – Right foot “steps to the ball” and plants.  Body weight loads into it immediately (no more steps).
• Left Foot Step & Throw – Key is that the body moves from the base (LF on bag), and plants RF in direction of the feed, before final LF step towards target.

Repetitions – Begin repetitions with a ball in the glove (no direct feed).  Athlete is to break from the cone and position feet on the SS side of bag.  With the hands up and the left foot planted (heel up on bag)… instruct athlete to ‘tap, tap, tap’ that right foot.  Then (on your coach’s verbal), athlete is to step out, plant RF, simulate the catching of a shortstop feed, and throw to the target net or receiver.  Quantity of reps will vary by age and skill level, but ensure each has felt proper footwork before adding a feed from coach.

Next, add a feed from coach.  Increase pace only after execution is clean and there are no extra steps.  As the drill continues, coach can change placement of the feeds explaining that the right foot always steps in the direction of the ball to ensure a quick transfer.  Finish the drill by allowing the athletes to execute “great plays” involving stepping back or behind the bag, etc.  Consider athlete feeds when appropriate and live double plays!!

DC KEYS

1. Tap, Tap, Tap RF – RF steps TO feed.  Tapping right foot keeps the body weight off of it and ensures first step is clean.
2. Fun Feeds – Step back, step side, etc.  Make sure athletes finish with fun.
3. No Extra / Wasted Steps – Starting slow helps athletes to avoid rushing.  Simplifying, and cleaning up, footwork is key to learning middle infield play.

EQUIPMENT LIST