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Ground Ball Fielding Progression

This progression builds correct fielding fundamentals in stages — starting from a stationary position and adding movement — so players develop a repeatable, reliable approach to every ground ball.

Age RangeAges 7+
Duration10–12 minutes
Group SizeIndividual, rotating
SportBaseball

Equipment Needed

  • Several balls
  • Gloves
  • Infield or flat grass area

Setup

  • Player starts in an athletic fielding position: feet shoulder-width apart, glove down, chest over the ball.
  • Coach or partner rolls balls from a short distance for the early stages.
Ground Ball Fielding ProgressionCF123Stage 1: straight • Stage 2: angle • Stage 3: charge & throwField with two hands, chest over the ball, then progress to movement

Instructions

  1. Stage 1 (stationary): coach rolls the ball directly at the player, who fields it with two hands and freezes in fielding position.
  2. Stage 2 (angle): coach rolls balls slightly to each side, requiring a shuffle before fielding.
  3. Stage 3 (charge): coach rolls the ball farther away, requiring the player to charge, field on the move, and make a throw to a target.
  4. Finish with a live round mixing all three ball types in random order.
Coaching Points
  • Glove out in front of the body, not between the feet, with the other hand ready to cover the ball on contact.
  • Field the ball with the feet moving — never flat-footed and reaching.
  • After fielding, come up through the throw in one motion rather than pausing to reset the feet.
  • Keep the eyes on the ball all the way into the glove, even on routine plays.

Variation

Add a backhand and forehand angle for more advanced players, or introduce a double-play footwork element for middle infielders once fielding is consistent.

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