The Basics

Let's take some time now to review the basics.

  Here I have broken down 3 of the basic skill sets needed, i.e. throwing, catching and hitting (three of the 5 tools) . When teaching, consider each aspect of the skill so you can demonstrate it properly to the players. Even if the player is young, it’s good to teach proper mechanics.

THROWING

  Begin with what is called an athletic position i.e. feet slightly more than shoulder width apart; the foot opposite the throwing hand slightly forward. The hands should be together at chest level. As the player commences the throw, the hands drop down as the weight shifts slightly back and begins forward again as the arm begins to circle up to the point where the elbow is parallel to the ground. A short step is followed immediately by the arm coming forward and through into full arm extension.

  The ball should be held so that the index, middle and ring fingers are on top of the ball, gripping the seam with the finger tips. Hold the ball up and look at he seems.  Notice the pattern. As the ball is rotated on a horizontal axis, how many lines of stitches roll by? 2 seams or 4? Ideally, the ball should be gripped along 4 seams to aid in accuracy.

  The ball is normally released just above the top of the head, although more advanced players by may throw 'over the top' for distance or from a 'side arm' position for speed. All should be practiced. Outfielders throw for distance, infielders throw for speed.
  In each case, ensure the arm doesn't stop short, but extends naturally, following through on the throw. Players who don't 'follow through' with their throws generally lose accuracy (short arming the ball) as well as cause unnecessary shoulder strain.

Catching and Fielding

The difference between catching and fielding is very little really and should always be attempted with two hands.  A ball received at chest level or above is a catch and should be performed with thumbs together. In fact, a 'fly' ball or 'pop-up', should be attempted above the head.  Use underhand, high toss as an extension of warm up to practice this skill.
  A ball caught from the waist  to ground level should also be made with two hands, this time baby fingers together. Watch the ball all the way into the glove. Once received, the ball should be rotated within the glove to get ready for the ensuing throw.
 
Sample Drill

  Have several balls available.  Since at this level you will want to train all players equally, get a helper to be at home plate. Deliver the ball along the ground to each player in turn either by rolling, throwing or batting - depending on the skill level.  The ball should be fielded properly, the player come quickly to the athletic position and the ball thrown properly to the helper at home plate. This helper will ultimately be your catcher(s). They will field bunts with a throw to first following.

  Once the players have each had several repetitions, move the team to the outfield, where they will repeat the drill on the grass and make return throws to second base where the ball will be delivered from.  Later we will put a player in place to follow the throw to second with a throw to first base.

  Repeat this outfield portion with 'fly balls' i.e. toss or hit balls into the air then have the player throw the ball to second base.  Once the catcher is chosen the player should use a catcher’s glove only when taking fielding practice.

 It cant be over emphasized that repetition is key to success in baseball.  Every play, the player sharpens his or her instincts until every movement is automatic. 

Next week...Hitting.