How to Field a Ground Ball Without Bobbling It

Fielding a ground ball in either baseball or softball is a deceptively difficult skill to learn. Ground balls are struck low, fast and hard, which makes getting in front of the ball and successfully catching it an intimidating act. The infield plays a key role in the success of the defense, and bobbling a ground ball will likely result in an error that allows the batter to get on base. Quick reactions and courage in the face of a hard-hit ball are required to successfully field a grounder.

Instructions

1 – Get into your infielder stance. Spread your legs shoulder-width apart, bend your knees and lean forward with your glove up. Keep your weight on the balls of your feet.

2 – Anticipate the pitch and the direction of the ball’s potential trajectory. This requires you to understand the pitch signs shared by the pitcher and catcher. If you know the pitch is going to be high, you will not likely have to field a ground ball.      

3 – Move in front of the ball’s path as quickly as possible. You do not want to rely on only your glove to catch the ball. Your body needs to be in the way.      

4 – Move to meet the ball. Do not wait for the ball to come to you.    

5 – Keep your body low to the ground so you are able to move quickly. Make sure your glove is face-up in front of you, parallel to the ground.        

6 – Position your body so you receive the ball between your glove-side foot and the middle of your body.     

7 – Anticipate a hop since the ball will likely come bouncing towards you, and position your glove accordingly.       

8 – Keep your eye on the ball and never lose sight of its path.        

9 – Close your glove around the ball as you lift your glove up. Continue to keep your eye on the ball. If you are unable to catch the ball, your position in front of the ball will prevent it from reaching the outfield. You can then pick it up off the ground without wasting too much time.    

10 – Secure the ball in your glove by covering it with your throwing hand. This will ensure that the ball doesn’t slip out once you’ve caught it.        

11 – Turn, face and step in the direction of your throwing target. Throw the ball with a strong snap of your wrist.