Perfect your middle infield skills with our comprehensive guide to second base double play techniques. Learn proper footwork, feeds, pivots, and drills from experienced coaches.
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Mastering Second Base Double Play Pivots and Feeds

The double play from second base is often called “a pitcher’s best friend” for good reason. A smooth, quick turn at the keystone position can change the momentum of a game in seconds. After coaching baseball for over three decades, we’ve seen how a well-executed double play can elevate a team’s defensive performance and boost pitcher confidence. This guide shares practical techniques and proven drills to help infielders master this critical skill.

The Fundamentals of Second Base Double Play Positioning

Before diving into technique, you need to understand proper positioning. Second basemen need to be in the right spot before the ball is even hit. The best second basemen know how to read the situation and position themselves based on the count, the hitter’s tendencies, and the runner’s speed.

Start by setting up about 3-4 steps behind the bag and slightly to the first base side. This gives you the best angle to approach the base for both feeds from shortstop and balls hit your way. Your pre-pitch stance should be balanced with your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, weight on the balls of your feet, and glove ready.

Mastering the Double Play Pivot Techniques

There are three main pivot techniques every second baseman should master. Each has its time and place depending on the game situation:

The Crossover Step Pivot

This is often the quickest pivot for most second basemen. As the throw comes in, catch the ball while crossing your right foot over your left toward second base. Touch the bag with your right foot as you catch, then quickly push off to create momentum toward first base. This technique works best on feeds that are on target or slightly to the first base side.

The Straddle Pivot

When the feed is coming directly at you or slightly behind, straddle the bag with your feet on either side. Catch the ball centered over the base, then quickly push off with your left foot toward first base. This gives you stability when the throw isn’t perfect.

The Drop Step Pivot

For feeds that are pulling you toward the outfield, use the drop step. As you approach the bag, drop your right foot back to touch the base while catching the ball. This allows you to maintain your momentum while still making contact with the base.

Receiving Feeds: Timing and Technique

The catch is just as important as the pivot. Keep your glove out front where you can see it, presenting a clear target for the shortstop. Soft hands are crucial here – you want to absorb the energy of the throw rather than fighting it.

When receiving, use the center of your body as your target area. This allows you to transfer the ball to your throwing hand more quickly. Practice the catch-and-release motion until it becomes second nature. The goal is to have the ball out of your glove and into your throwing hand almost immediately after catching.

Avoiding the Runner: Safety and Efficiency

One of the biggest challenges in turning double plays is dealing with the sliding runner. The key is getting clear of the runner while still making an accurate throw.

When possible, use the base as protection by staying on the outfield side. As you receive the ball and make your pivot, clear yourself from the base path quickly. Your throw to first should be made from a position of balance, even if that means taking an extra fraction of a second.

Remember that avoiding collisions is not just about safety – it’s about completing the play. A throw made off-balance because you’re trying to avoid contact rarely reaches its target.

Essential Double Play Drills

These drills have proven effective across all levels of baseball:

Rapid Fire Drill

Have a coach repeatedly feed balls to the second baseman at increasing speeds. The player catches, pivots, and throws to first in one fluid motion. This builds muscle memory and improves transfer speed.

Four Corners Drill

Place fielders at shortstop, second base, first base, and third base. Start the ball at third, throw to short, pivot at second, throw to first, then back to third. This creates game-like pressure and builds teamwork.

Blind Pivot Drill

Second baseman stands with back to the thrower, then on command turns to find and receive the throw, make the pivot, and throw to first. This improves reaction time and adaptability.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

After watching thousands of double play attempts, we’ve noticed some recurring issues:

Rushing the catch is probably the most common mistake. Many infielders are so focused on making a quick turn that they don’t secure the ball first. Always prioritize catching the ball cleanly before worrying about the speed of your release.

Another frequent error is poor footwork around the bag. Practice your pivots without a ball first, getting comfortable with the footwork before adding the catch and throw components.

Finally, many second basemen struggle with throw accuracy after the pivot. This usually stems from improper weight transfer. Make sure you’re pushing off your back foot and following through toward your target.