Double Play
Also known as: twin killing, 6-4-3, 4-6-3, DP
A double play retires two runners on the same batted ball. It most often comes on an infield ground ball with a runner on first.
The standard slow-pitch double play starts with a ground ball to the shortstop or second baseman. That fielder flips or throws to second base for the force out. Then a relay throw goes 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. Slow-pitch ground balls are often hit softly off a descending arc. 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 — stand next to second base and have a partner throw you feeds while you work your footwork and release into a throw to first.
Example
Runner on first, one out: the batter grounds to short, who flips to second for one, and the second baseman fires to first to beat the runner — 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, and the first baseman stretching for the ball while 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
Motion Lab can read one fielder's transfer, throw and footwork from pose. It does not see the ball or the bag, so it cannot time the pivot.
Related terms
- Infield DepthInfield depth is how far the infielders play from home plate — "in" (shaded forward to cut off a run) or "back" (standard depth to maximize range on ground balls and line drives).
- Cutoff PlayIn a cutoff play, an infielder between the outfielder and home takes the throw. They can redirect it, or add accuracy over a distance one arm cannot cover.
- Relay ThrowIn a relay throw, an infielder runs out, takes an outfield throw, and fires it on. It is used when one arm cannot cover the distance with speed and accuracy.
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