Many coach’s believe that throwing is the most important drill in practice.  Why then, would catch play be cut short or rushed through?  Dugout Captain recommends taking time to truly coach the throwing segment – you will reap the benefits all season.

Long Toss – Time & Distance is more a philosophy than a traditional drill.  Start throwing with either a Throwing Progression or Structure Catch Play variation.  Long Toss takes over once throwing moves into “playing catch” and basically means coach is going to pay attention to increasing distance thrown and time spent doing so.  By gradually increasing both distance and time over days / weeks / months, athletes will build strength and endurance, while preventing arm injury.

Coach’s Note: Finish Long Toss with an execution-based throwing drill such as Catch & Pop or Quick Catch Competition.

EXECUTION      

• Throwing – Done in pairs, one athlete on foul line and other extending into outfield.
• Distance – Start short and increase every X throws or mins.  Push back MAX distance as well.
• Time – Can measure time spent at each step… or just MAX distance.  Coaching verbal: “ Get to 100 feet, and stay there for 2 minutes.”

DC KEYS

1. Use Fence Posts For Distance – Each post is roughly 10 feet apart from the next.  Full field: Bases (90 ft), cut of grass (120 ft).
2. Build Foundation of Arm Strength – Increasing distance and time spent at each step.  Not too much too fast.
3. Throw More Philosophy – Personal believe that MORE throwing is good.  Encourage distance and arm “fitness.”

EQUIPMENT LIST