Dancing at First Base - the old method

Over four decades ago, when I was taught the footwork around first base by a member of the old Kansas City Blues (before the Athletics came to town in 1953 [?]), we did it a little differently. I recognize that some of the fundamentals have changed a little, mostly for the better. In the interests of history, I will take a stab at describing the way I was taught (and why).

We were told to move to the bag when the ball was hit (to another fielder) and to place both feet approximately six inches in front of the bag, approximately at the corners of the bag. You did not commit which foot would touch the bag until you knew what side of the base the throw was on. If the throw was to your right, you moved your left foot directly behind the right one and "stepped" with the right foot - leaving the left foot as the "tag" foot.

Conversely, if the ball were thrown to the left side, you did the opposite, i.e., placed your right foot behind your left, touching the bag, and stepped with your left.

The advantage of this method is that you increase your lateral range for receiving the throw by approximately a distance equal to the width of your feet in their original position (about 12-14 inches) - a significant amount. In addition, it ensures that you know where the throw is going before you begin your "stretch." In my opinion, too many young players begin their stretch before they are sure where the throw is going.

I see few players using this technique any more, even at the college level. Perhaps there is a reason - if so, maybe one of you could enlighten me. I still teach it - starting at age 8-9, after the youngsters become comfortable with the catching aspect.

Finally, after they get comfortable with the "dance" to work them on some shorthop drills using the footwork. [I kneel about 20 feet away and throw the ball for forehand and backhand shorthops. It is amazing how important this aspect is, since there will always be bad throws.

Cheers,

-b-