It is a good idea to practice having an out at first base before the play at second base so that the shortstop does not miss tagging the runner at second when the ball is coming from first base. Consider the accuracy of the throw and the direction of the runners approach. Vary the double play pivot used so that the runner will have difficulty guessing where to slide safely or to break up the double play. A good baserunner will make a note of the pivot if it is always the same, and have additional information in evading the tag. Make sure the shortstop practices different double play footwork so that she does not use the same execution every time there is a double play. Some would have the Shortstop cover regardless. this means that the shortstop needs to be at third so the second base player would then cover second for the double play. if there is a bunt situation for example, the third base player may have to go in to pick it up. There may be a procedure set by the coach depending on the abilities of the infield. Shortstop would generally cover second on a double play throw from the pitcher or catcher unless there is a runner at third base. The team or coach will set who takes the throw on a pick off but it might depend on weather or not there are other runners on base and a bunt is expected. It is important to be sure who is taking the second base for example on a play as well as letting the third base player know there is coverage on a pick off play. Less contact and throws makes the possibility of success greater.Ĭommunicate with the other infielders through the game. When possible, on a double play, the shortstop should simply step on the bag, pivot or step and make the throw to first herself instead of throwing or tossing it to the second base player at the base. If the throw is to home or to first base, it is important to get a good hard throw that gets there quickly. If the shortstop is throwing to third base, she might use a backhand flip and if she is making a quick throw to second base to start a double play she might use a sidearm throw or underhand toss depending how close she is. When making a throw to another infielder, keep the ball in view of the receiver at all times. In the transition, use as few steps as possible before throwing. When possible, it is best to attempt to catch and throw in one continuous motion, quickly but accurate. Being on the right side of the field, depending on the pitching speed and the abilities of the hitter, the shortstop will receive many of the ground balls. When considering fielding for the shortstop, the main reason to be on the balls of the feet in the ready position, is so that she can charge the ball, set and throw with accuracy. This might change depending on where there might be runners on base. When the ball is hit to the left side of the field, the shortstop stays on the left side to cover second base or back up third base. When it is hit to the right side of the field, the shortstop moves to the right side of the field. Some common softball shortstop tips for example include, middle infielders flow with the batted ball depending on which side of the field it is hit on. There are basic steps that make softball games simpler to manage and to make execution automatic during a play.

Softball shortstop