The Backhand: A Shortstop’s Best Friend
At shortstop, the backhand isn’t just a flashy play; it’s a fundamental skill that separates good infielders from great ones. Being able to confidently field balls hit to your glove side opens up a whole new range of defensive possibilities. This post will give you actionable drills to develop a lightning-fast, reliable backhand that will make you a vacuum at shortstop.
Why the Backhand is Crucial
The backhand allows you to:
- Cover More Ground: Extend your reach and field balls you wouldn’t be able to get to with a forehand.
- Make Stronger Throws: Often, a backhand puts you in a better position to make a strong, accurate throw to first base.
- Handle Difficult Hops: The backhand technique allows you to adjust to bad hops more effectively.
Drill 1: The Soft Toss Backhand
This drill focuses on the fundamental mechanics of the backhand.
- Setup: Kneel on your throwing-side knee, with your glove-side foot forward.
- Execution: Have a partner softly toss balls to your glove side. Focus on:
- Fielding the ball out in front of your body.
- Using soft hands to ‘give’ with the ball.
- Keeping your glove open and facing the ball.
- Funnel the ball into your throwing hand.
- Repetitions: 3 sets of 10-15 reps.
Drill 2: Short Hop Backhands
This drill prepares you for those tricky short hops that often occur on backhands.
- Setup: Start in an athletic fielding position.
- Execution: Have a partner roll or bounce balls to your glove side, intentionally creating short hops. Focus on:
- Staying low to the ground.
- Reading the hop and adjusting your glove accordingly.
- “Attacking” the ball and fielding it out in front. Don’t let it play you.
- Repetitions: 3 sets of 10-15 reps.
Drill 3: The ‘Range’ Backhand
This drill simulates game-like situations where you need to move laterally to field a backhand.
- Setup: Start in an athletic fielding position.
- Execution: Have a partner hit or throw ground balls to your glove side, requiring you to move laterally. Focus on:
- Staying low and shuffling your feet.
- Keeping your glove out in front.
- Getting your body in front of the ball whenever possible.
- Making a strong, accurate throw to first base after fielding.
- Repetitions: 3 sets of 10-15 reps.
The Mental Side of the Backhand
Don’t underestimate the mental aspect! Visualize yourself making great backhand plays. Develop confidence in your ability, and don’t be afraid to go for those tough balls. Believe you will make the plays!
Putting It All Together
Practice these drills consistently, and you’ll see a dramatic improvement in your backhand ability. Remember, repetition is key. The more you practice, the more natural and instinctive the backhand will become. With dedication and hard work, you can transform your backhand from a weakness into a weapon!
