For young and aspiring infielders, the infield ready position is a fundamental yet often overlooked and misunderstood aspect of the game. We delve into the mechanics of an effective infield ready position that helps players get into a ready position, on time with the pitch and prepared to field a ball hit at them, on either side or if they have to charge.

The Importance of the Prep Step

A key component of the ready position is the prep step, a subtle yet game-changing movement that prepares infielders for rapid, multidirectional movement. High level infielders and coaches preach about the utility of a small hop just as the hitter is about to hit the ball. This hop isn't just a physical movement; it's a mental trigger that tells the infielder, "It's go time."

The Landing: On the Balls of Your Feet

After the prep hop, infielders should land on the balls of their feet rather than flat-footed. This stance is crucial for two reasons: it enhances stability and provides the agility needed to move swiftly in any direction in response to the ball's trajectory.

Positioning and Posture

As the infielder lands from this hop, their body should be in an optimal position to spring into action. Here's what that looks like:

1. Arms and Elbows: Keep them relaxed and to the sides, ensuring they don't stiffen or extend too far out. This positioning aids in quick, fluid movements.
2. Hands: Positioned around waist-high, with thumbs pointing upwards, ready to transition seamlessly into a catching or throwing motion.
3. Chest and Chin: Slightly lean forward, positioning the chest and chin out in front of the rest of the body. This forward posture minimizes the distance and time it takes to move towards the ball.

Footwork: The Dance of Defense

For right-handed players, the footwork sequence before fielding the ball is a rhythmic right-left catch, followed by a right-left throw. This sequence is paramount for maintaining balance, ensuring precision in catching, and facilitating a swift, powerful throw.

Practice like You Play

Understanding and executing the infield ready position as described requires consistent practice. Coaches should emphasize that the prep step, correct body positioning, and precise footwork should be done on every rep in practice and pitch in game.

To help explore how to create a safe, fun engaging and movement based practice, keep looking for updates on the Coach's Clipboard or use one of the links below.

Links:

1. Hitting Stride
2. How to Grip a Baseball
3. Importance of a Baseball Warm-up
4. How to Catch a Fly Ball