Master the Basics: Fielding Technique
Master the Basics: Fielding technique
Two Steps and Field, Two Steps and Throw
When it comes to building strong, confident fielders, it all starts with the fundamentals. In this video, I walk through one of our most important foundation drills — one we’ll often use in our very first session of an 8-week academy program or when working with beginner teams and T-ballers.
Even if your players have seen it before, this drill is all about getting everyone on the same page. We want every player to understand the why behind good technique so we can progress together.
Step 1: Two Steps and Field
We keep it simple: right–left–field for right-handers (opposite for lefties).
That means:
- Step with your throwing hand side (right foot),
- Then glove side (left foot),
- Then field the ball.
I like to say your right toe should land in line with the middle of your left foot. This puts you in a balanced, athletic fielding position. From there, we want:
- Fingers pointing down,
- Glove open with the big part exposed,
- Free hand ready over the top to cover the ball.
Then we funnel that ball into our body. All very basic, but crucial.
Step 2: Two Steps and Throw
Once the ball’s secure, we move on to the throwing motion:
- Step with the instep of your throwing foot towards the target,
- Then step with your glove-side toe towards the target.
So again — one, two, field. One, two, throw.
You’ll notice that the final position mirrors our step and stop drill. Everything we do connects — one movement leads into the next. That’s why it’s important not to skip the basics.
How to Run This Drill
Start as a group and keep it dry — no ball just yet. Get them repeating the motion:
- “One, two, field! Bum down! Fingers down! Funnel the ball!”
- “One, two, throw! Hit that throwing position!”
Do that a few times, then start rolling in some simple ground balls. Keep the focus on technique, not speed. This is where we build great habits.
Whether you’re coaching a T-ball team or getting players ready for more advanced sessions, this drill is a must. Nail it early, and everything else becomes easier.
Watch the full video below to see how it’s done! 👇
