Short Summary
- Coach Madden and former Brewers infielder Nick Shaw discuss the importance of backhand plays for middle infielders in baseball.
- They emphasize the proper technique for executing a backhand, highlighting the need for positioning the right foot behind the path of the ball for better visibility and control.
- This technique allows players to see both the ball and their glove simultaneously, improving their ability to make quick throws.
- Nick mentions that many youth players are taught to time their left foot landing when catching the ball, but advocates for timing the right foot instead for enhanced stability and throwing accuracy.
- Drills are introduced to practice backhand skills, starting with a kneeling drill to focus on eye level and catching technique, followed by a standing drill to simulate game conditions.
- The speakers discuss the mechanics and drills for improving backhand skills, emphasizing the significance of sinking into the right leg and focusing on the ball.
- They describe a series of drills, including a kneeling drill and a wide base stance, to enhance backhand technique.
- The importance of practicing daily is highlighted, especially for players who are naturally stronger with their forehand.
- The speakers share their own routines, including wall ball exercises to develop hand-eye coordination and skills in a fun way.
