A common baseball drill, Pepper requires one player to hit ground balls or line drives briskly to their teammates, who will field the balls. These fielders are typically around twenty feet away from the batter. Generally, the batter has the baseball tossed to him and he swings with a short, light technique to hit the ball along the ground to the fielders.
Players field the baseball and continue tossing it back to the batter. This exercise is popular because it can keep the batter ready and alert. It also helps everyone involved develop better hand/eye coordination and improved reaction time.
Here’s why Pepper is a great drill:
- It builds teamwork.
This simple game is an excellent way to improve camaraderie and togetherness in the team. It’s a simple, yet super fun and effective way to get teammates together and increase morale. Pepper allows for players to get loose, shake out their nerves, and practice their communication skills.
- It improves skills.
This is another significant reason Pepper is used as a training tool by many coaches. The process of repetition and habit can lead to a higher level of comfort which can produce success in games.
Whether Pepper is used as a warm-up or as a fast-paced drill, it gives players the opportunity to practice basic fundamentals, getting reps watching the ball connect with the bat, or positioning themselves properly to field ground balls.
With Pepper, you’re able to cover the basics, have fun with your team, and get valuable repetitions that boost hand-eye coordination.