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<\/p>\nWithout a doubt, one of the most exciting things in baseball is a good, old play at the plate. To even have a chance, the outfielder has to consistently make strong, level throws that hit the catcher\u2019s chest on-the-fly or on one-hop — so, to put it lightly, it isn\u2019t easy. The footwork, preparation, and mechanics of the throw need to be flawless, especially if it\u2019s a speedy runner in scoring position. In fact, it\u2019s just important to know your limitations and effectively hit the cut-off so other runners can\u2019t advance any extra bases.<\/p>\n
You can\u2019t expect to hit a home run every time, so the same concept should apply to attempting to throw a runner out as well. Keep your expectations in check and that will constantly have you making the right decision. Just be sure to line-up correctly on fly balls, practice good habits, and make the most of your best opportunities. Here are some classic CoachUp tips in order to prepare for making throws from the outfield — take them with you the next time you try to hurl a lightning bolt from right field!<\/p>\n
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Shoulder Strength<\/strong><\/p>\n First of all, you\u2019ll need to spend some time in the gym in order to mow down runners like the Tigers\u2019 Yoenis Cespedes! Shoulder strength is essential to throwing the baseball across the field, especially at far distances. Without properly working your shoulders, a career-ending injury could occur to the rotator cuff — so try this workout!<\/p>\n Start by holding two five pound dumbbells at your side. Keep your arms straight and raise them in front of you until you\u2019ve hit a 45 degree angle — remember, your thumbs should be pointed up! Then, raise your arms to about shoulder height and then lower them slowly. Repeat until you feel the burn and then keep going!<\/p>\n Footwork<\/strong><\/p>\n Even though you\u2019ve got some extra shoulder strength working to your advantage, you still won\u2019t be able to throw from the deep outfield accurately and efficiently without the crow hop. First, get behind the ball before catching it, so you can take a couple steps into a running start. That way, you\u2019re already through the power-generating portion of the throw before you even have the ball. When you\u2019re trying to throw somebody out at home, effectively using the crow hop can be the difference.<\/p>\n Catch the ball while moving in the direction you want to throw it with your glove-side foot forward. Hop with your trailing foot and turn it perpendicular to the target and launch it ahead of your front foot. This will generate some serious forward momentum, so if you follow through with the throw, it should land right where you want it. Which then poses the question — where should I throw it?<\/p>\n