The primary responsibility of the outfielder is to get to the ball. The best approach is to anticipate where it's going and be there waiting for it. But that's not always possible. So you need to practice the best route to track down grounders in any game situation.

When practicing outfield groundball drills, make sure to include both glove-side and backhand plays. Shown here are fundamental techniques which all fielders should master.


The safety catch - with no men on base. Line up on the ball as early as possible, then crouch using your glove - and leg - to keep the ball from getting through.
The banana scoop - with men on base. Take a route to the ball that lines you up with your intended target (base, cutoff or home plate). Adjust your stride for timing - you want to get to the ball when your glove-side leg is bent - it's easier to get the glove right to the ground. With men on come up throwing - using the crowhop for power and accuracy.

For a more detailed breakdown of the crowhop, click here.


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