Fielding the Short Hop

Question
What is the best technique for handling the throw that "short hops?"  I am thinking of shortstop who takes the throw from the catcher or from the outfield at second base.  It is natural to turn the head away...what is the technique and mental image to increase chances of actually catching the ball?  My sons are 11 and 9.  Thanks.

Answer
Hi David,

I tell my players to get as close to the hop as possible with the glove and try and use the free hand as a cover against the ball riding up out of the glove.

Show them that if they can get their glove right on where the hop is, it will almost always go right into the glove. Of course, they must ACTUALLY SEE the ball go int the glove.  If they don't see it in, the chances are greatly reduced that it will go in.

Also, tell them that a short hop is a bad throw--they are not EXPECTED to make the scoop--they ARE expected to block the ball from going past them.  When the scoop is made, it is a web gem.  This will help them relax and not take it so hard when they do not come up with the scoop.

Good luck.

Pete