Baseball Throwing Drills
Ready-Break-Throw
- Players start in a throwing position with their lead shoulder, hip and foot pointed toward the target.
- On coach’s command, players break their hands (separate them) and hold for one or two seconds for self-evaluation, ensuring they’re in the proper throwing position.
- On coach’s command, players throw to a specific point on the target, making sure to fully finish their throw.
- On the return throw, players step with their glove-side foot to meet the ball, jumping into the “ready” position.
Alternative: Have a teammate hold his/her glove in different locations to concentrate on accuracy. Changing the location is a good way to stay sharp.
Ready-Throw
- Same as ” Ready-Break-Throw,” except there is no pause.
- Players must still emphasize meeting the ball and getting into a proper throwing position.
- In a further stage, position players can simulate different aspects of their positions during the return throw; for example, middle infielders can work on their double play pivot, and corner infielders can work on their relay throw.
Quick Release
- This is the next step in the progression. It is great for improving a fielder’s footwork and hands as well as accuracy.
- Players make the transfer and return throw as quickly as possible while hitting the target.
- Make this a competition between different sets of throwing teammates.
Stretch it Out
This allows players to stretch out their arms while improving their arm strength.
- Players start at a normal throwing distance with a teammate.
- After every five throws, players back up a set distance, still keeping their throws on a line.
Repeat the Sequence
Once the players long toss, repeat the progression in reverse order, finishing with “Ready-Break-Throw.”
Sample Baseball Throwing Program for Practice
- Ready-Break-Throw – 10 throws at 30 feet
- Ready-Throw – 10 throws at 60 feet
- Quick Release – 10 throws at 90 feet
- Stretch it Out – 10-15 throws at 100 feet to max distance
- Quick Release – 5 throws at 90 feet
- Ready-Throw – 5 throws at 60 feet
- Ready-Break-Throw – 5 throws at 30 feet