When you have less time to make the backhanded play (a longer run to the ball or a faster runner, for example) it may be necessary to use this technique to quickly deliver your throw.
Position your throwing toe to point toward your target as you lower your elevation. As the ball touches your glove, let your elbow act as a hinge with the glove lifting toward your chest to prepare for the throw. Without taking an additional step, drive off of your throwing foot (without needing to shift your throwing foot since it started in the "pigeon toe" position) toward your throw. Forcefully pivot your hips as you complete the throw to get a powerful and accurate throw toward your target.
This skill takes some time to learn, but can give you the advantage of increased range.
Level 3 Infielding - Catching Flares
For a pop-up hit near you, take a first step back in the direction the wind is blowing. Then, get behind the ball at catch it with both hands as you come through the ball.
To take away a base hit from a flare, it may be necessary to put your head down and sprint toward where it will land for the first few steps, then pick the ball up again as you prepare to catch it. A common play is the flare to the second baseman by a righty batter. If a pop-up is hit at you or to your glove side, take a route with the ball to your glove side (this ball tends to slice from a R-handed batter). Stay off of your heels and sprint to get behind the ball so you can come through it as you catch it. It is much easier to adjust to a ball falling in front of you compared to a ball directly over your head that may float over you. Always yield to an outfielder if they call you off of the ball, as they have priority over a ball between you.
Level 3 Infielding - Double Play Turns
For learning to turn a double play, there are a few fundamentals to keep in mind:
Position yourself to give a large target to the feeder (2B, SS, 3B or 1B).
Ideally, you will get a ball thrown near the torso area so you can make the turn. If not, position your body to block the ball with a foot on the bag so you can get the lead out.
Catch the ball in the direction of the throw, letting your foot swipe off of the bag as the ball hits your glove. In the same motion, adjust your body for the throw (side of glove hip and glove elbow pointed toward 1st base). As you drive off of your throwing foot, it should come off of the ground, followed by your glove foot as you are leaping out of the path of the incoming baserunner.
