The charging backhand play

There are some videos that I make that are geared for players and coaches at the lower levels.  This is not one of them.

Today’s video tip is for more advanced levels and involves one of the more difficult plays in all of baseball, especially for shortstops since after the catch they will most often have the longest throw to make.  It’s called the charging backhand and it is one of those “separaters” in the game.  By “separater” I mean it is one of those plays that separate the men from the boys in terms of ability.

Major Leaguers make this play look so easy that observers frequently take for granted what is done.  The play is not easy.  It takes balance, good footwork, arm strength, range, and good instincts right off the bat.

At some level (college and above most likely) this play has to be routinely made.  To get to this point, players have to put in a lot of work.

The video shows how it is done.  It may sound simple but that doesn’t mean it’s easy.  Get to work.

Tomorrow’s post: Giving signs after pickoffs