A pre-game infield and outfield routine, usually called infield/outfield, gives every fielder a few game-speed reps before the first pitch. Outfielders field balls and throw to second, third and home. Infielders field ground balls and make every throw they might need in the game. The catcher works on throw-downs, bunts and pop-ups. A good routine is crisp and organized, typically about 10 to 15 minutes, and it finishes with the team feeling sharp rather than tired. It also sends a message: a team that moves quickly and communicates loudly during infield/outfield looks prepared. This guide provides a sample routine, explains the purpose of each round and covers how to run it efficiently.
Health note: This article is general information, not medical advice. Throwing arms need a proper warm-up before full-effort throws. Complete a throwing progression before infield/outfield, limit maximum-effort throws, and have players report any arm pain to a coach.
Before the routine
Infield/outfield should come after players have warmed up and completed a throwing progression, starting with short, easy throws and building to longer distances. Starting infield/outfield with cold arms increases the risk of injury and produces sloppy throws. Coaches should also check the time available; some tournaments and leagues set a specific time limit for each team’s pre-game fielding, so plan the routine to fit.
Sample routine
| Round | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Outfield: fielders throw to second, then third, then home | Arm strength, accuracy and hitting cutoffs |
| 2 | Infield: throw to first | Routine plays and footwork |
| 3 | Infield: turn the double play | Feeds, pivots and timing |
| 4 | Infield: throw home; catcher throws back to the base | Plays at the plate and catcher throw-downs |
| 5 | Bunts: corners charge, catcher and pitcher field | Bunt coverage and communication |
| 6 | Slow rollers and a final pop-up to the catcher | Charging plays and a confident finish |
Round 1: outfield
The coach hits ground balls and fly balls to each outfielder in turn. Outfielders field the ball and throw to second base, then to third base and finally home, using the cutoff player as they would in a game. Infielders line up as cutoffs and relay players and call out where the throw should go. The focus is on accurate throws to the cutoff at chest height, quick transfers and loud communication. Outfielders should practice both the one-knee block and charging pickups, depending on the throw.
Round 2: infield throws to first
The coach hits ground balls to each infielder, starting with the third baseman and moving around the infield. Each fielder throws to first base. Include routine grounders, backhands and balls to the glove side. The first baseman works on footwork around the bag and stretching for throws. Keep the pace quick so no one waits long between reps.
Round 3: double plays
Next, infielders turn double plays. The coach hits ground balls, and fielders make the feed to second base, where the shortstop or second baseman pivots and throws to first. This round builds timing between middle infielders and practices different feeds, such as underhand tosses and firm throws. Include a few balls to the first and third basemen so they practice feeding second.
Round 4: throws home
With the infield drawn in, fielders throw home as if preventing a run. The catcher receives the throw, applies a tag and then throws back to a base, practicing throw-downs to second and third. This round prepares the team for plays at the plate and gives the catcher game-like throwing reps.
Round 5: bunts
The coach bunts or rolls balls to simulate bunts. The corner infielders charge, the pitcher fields balls back to the circle, and the catcher handles balls near the plate and calls the throw. The second baseman covers first, and the shortstop covers the appropriate base. This round reinforces bunt coverage, which is especially important in fastpitch where slappers and bunters are common.
Round 6: slow rollers and finish
Finish with a few slow rollers so infielders practice charging and throwing on the run. Many teams end with a high pop-up to the catcher, which gives the catcher a rep and signals the end of the routine. End on a clean play to build confidence before the game.
Step-by-step: running an efficient routine
- Plan the order of rounds and share it with the team beforehand.
- Assign roles: who hits fungoes, who catches for the coach and who feeds balls.
- Keep a fast pace so every player stays engaged.
- Use game-like throws, including cutoffs and relays.
- Communicate loudly on every play, just as in a game.
- Limit full-power throws to a few reps to protect arms.
- Finish on time and on a positive note.
Roles for pitchers and extra players
Pitchers often warm up separately with the catcher or a backup catcher during infield/outfield, so the routine needs a plan for who catches for the coach and who fields bunts in Round 5. Some teams bring the starting pitcher in for the bunt round only, while others use a backup pitcher. Players who are not in the starting lineup can serve as cutoff players, feed balls to the hitting coach, or take reps at their backup positions. Giving everyone a role keeps the dugout engaged and means substitutes are also warm and ready if they enter the game.
Designated players and bench players should still complete a throwing warm-up, as they may be called on during the game. A few ground balls or fly balls for them at the end of the routine, or during another team’s infield time on a side field if space allows, helps them stay sharp.
Using the routine to check the field
Infield/outfield is also a chance to learn how the field plays. Notice how the infield dirt affects ground balls, whether the grass is fast or slow, how balls carry in the wind and where the sun sits during the game. Outfielders can check the fence, the warning track and any uneven areas. Share these observations with teammates so everyone adjusts before the first pitch.
Tips for coaches
Keep the coach’s hitting rhythm steady and quick. A second coach or player can collect balls and feed them to the hitter. Hit balls that players are likely to see in the game, rather than extremely difficult ones that may lead to errors and dent confidence. Watch the other team’s infield/outfield too, as it can reveal strong and weak arms in their lineup, which can inform base-running decisions.
Adjusting for time and conditions
If time is short, combine rounds, such as having infielders throw to first and then turn one double play each. In cold weather, spend more time on the warm-up and throwing progression before starting. In hot weather, keep the routine brief and make sure players stay hydrated. On wet fields, focus on secure fielding and consider reducing the number of throws to avoid slipping.
Adapting for younger players
Younger teams may benefit from a simpler routine that focuses on routine throws to first and outfield throws to a cutoff. Keep instructions short, make sure every player gets several reps and encourage loud communication. As players develop, add double plays, bunt coverage and throws home. The main goal is to build confidence and good habits.
Common mistakes
- Starting without a proper warm-up.
- Slow pace, leaving players standing around.
- Too many full-power throws, tiring arms before the game.
- Skipping cutoffs and throwing directly to bases.
- Silence instead of game-like communication.
- Overly hard fungoes that lead to errors and hurt confidence.
- Running out of time without finishing the routine.
Frequently asked questions
How long should softball infield/outfield take?
Usually about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the time available and any league or tournament limits.
What order should infield/outfield follow?
A common order is outfield throws first, then infield throws to first, double plays, throws home, bunts and a final pop-up to the catcher.
Should players throw at full effort during infield/outfield?
Only for a few reps after a proper warm-up. Most throws should be firm and accurate without maximum effort, to save arms for the game.
