Outfield Angle Question

[BB875]

I have a question about outfielders taking proper angles to balls hit in the gaps. I see some of my outfielders taking "swooping" angles and not in a direction that is most efficient. Its like they run towards the ball's trajectory path, but mis-judge where is will be in relation to their body.

Can you suggest any drills to get the kids to identify where the ball is really going off the bat?

Also, we are 14U and I have adjusted my middle infielders to play a tad deeper to allow the outfield to play a tad deeper so we don't get burned, but still defend against the Texas Leaguer hit ball... I feel like we are making progress in our ability to cover more territory, but correcting the girls angles would be huge. BTW, I have preached to my middle infielders they must attack grounders now that they are a few steps farther back. Its a balance we are trying to perfect...

Thanks,
BB

 

[Coach JV]

Gap drills at practice launching balls from a pitching machine
is the best way for them to get different looks. The machine
allows you to send many fly balls and line drives in a hurry.