Double Play
Also known as: twin killing, 6-4-3, 4-6-3, DP
A double play retires two base runners on the same batted ball. This is most commonly on a ground ball through the infield with a runner on first.
The standard slow-pitch double play starts with a ground ball to the shortstop or second baseman. Who flips or throws to second base for the force out, followed by a relay throw to first base before the batter arrives. Turning a double play in slow pitch requires clean communication, fast footwork at second base, and an accurate relay throw. Because slow-pitch ground balls are often hit softly on an arc descent. Infielders who crowd in slightly can shorten the throwing distance and improve double-play success rates.
Focus on getting one out at a time — catch the ball cleanly first, then make a firm throw to the base. A rushed throw that goes wild gives up more than just the double play.
Practice the pivot separately from fielding. This means stand next to second base and have a partner throw you feeds. At the same time, you work your footwork and release into a throw to first.
Example
Runner on first, one out. This means the batter grounds to short, who flips to second for one. The second baseman fires to first to beat the runner. This means two outs on one pitch, inning over.
How it shows up on video
A double play in slow-pitch is visible as two consecutive outs on the same batted ball. The classic 6-4-3 (shortstop to second to first) shows the middle infielder receiving the throw, planting for the pivot throw to first. The first baseman stretching for the ball. At the same time, maintaining contact with the bag. Timing is critical and visible in the fielder's footwork sequence.
Common mistakes
- The pivot player (shortstop or second baseman) fielding cleanly but taking too long on the transfer to throw
- Bouncing the relay throw to first base, which takes longer to reach the first baseman than a firm throw
- The first baseman coming off the bag too early, negating the out at first
- Trying to turn a double play on a ball hit to slow infield where only one out is realistically achievable
In SwingVantage Motion Lab
SwingVantage can review video of infield play to analyze footwork efficiency at the pivot position and transfer speed, identifying areas for double-play improvement.
Related terms
- Infield DepthInfield depth is how far the infielders play from home plate. This means "in" (shaded forward to cut off a run) or "back" (standard depth to maximize range on ground balls and line drives).
- Cutoff PlayA cutoff play routes an outfield throw through an infielder positioned between the fielder and home, letting the defence redirect the ball or add accuracy over a distance one arm cannot cover.
- Relay ThrowA relay throw is an outfield ball delivered to an infielder who has run out to meet it and immediately sends it on. This means used when one arm cannot cover the distance with both speed and accuracy.
Related guides & benchmarks
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See a sample Slow-Pitch Softball report first