Sizzler Skills Videos

Southfour Sizzler Weekly Skills

During the course of the SOUTHFOUR SIZZLER we’ll be focusing on a wide range of foundational softball skills that are essential to every player’s understanding of the game. This program is designed to be a progressive learning experience for everyone involved. Each weekend, we’ll build upon the skills introduced previously while layering in new techniques and concepts. Our goal is to create a fast-paced, small-sided game environment where players are encouraged to be confident and aggressive, both at the plate and in the field. Through consistent repetition, we aim to instill positive habits rooted in softball IQ, such as sliding with purpose, calling for the ball, anticipating the next play, and maintaining smart control of the ball.

Week 1 Focused Skills

Sacrifice Bunt

A sacrifice bunt is a planned bunt used to move a baserunner into scoring position, even if it means the batter will likely be thrown out. To execute it, the batter squares up early, holds the bat lightly with the top hand behind the barrel, and keeps the bat angled slightly upward. Instead of swinging or jabbing, the batter lets the ball hit the bat and “deadens” it, dropping it softly into play before running hard to first. This play forces fielders to charge the ball, opening up chances for teammates, and is especially useful against pitchers who throw faster than hitters are used to.

The Run Down (aka Pickle or Hotbox)

A hotbox happens when a baserunner is caught between two bases, forcing quick decisions from both the runner and fielders. Defensively, at least four fielders are used (two at each base). The ball should always be thrown behind the runner to keep them moving, with quick, controlled throws while closing the distance. Never run directly behind the runner, always run at an angle, allowing for more direct throws. Follow your throw to the base and be ready to catch and run down the runner once more as necessary. Once in range, fielders tag firmly and with confidence. Offensively, the runner must stay calm, use hesitation moves and sudden changes of direction, and look for mistakes or open bases. Once committed, sprint hard and finish with a slide if needed.

Week 2 Focused Skills

Left-Handed Drag Bunt

A drag bunt is an offensive play where a left-handed batter begins running out of the box toward first base while laying down a bunt. The goal is to push the ball softly up the first base line, forcing infielders to charge and make an off-balance throw. Success depends on surprise, precise placement, and acceleration out of the box—using speed to beat the throw and reach safely.

Fake Throw

A fake throw is a defensive move designed to trick baserunners into hesitating or making a mistake. The fielder uses realistic body mechanics—arm motion, follow-through, and intent—to sell the idea of a throw, but either holds the ball or redirects it. Common uses include faking to another base to draw a runner off the bag, faking to an aggressive runner on base to either push them back to their bag or entice them into a hot box with an easy tag out, or faking after a catch to freeze tagging runners. Success comes from believable body language, awareness of baserunners, and quick decision-making.

Double Play

A double play is a defensive sequence where two outs are made in one continuous play. Most often it occurs with a runner on first base, as infielders work quickly to get out both the baserunner and the batter. Common examples include a ground ball where the shortstop throws to second for the force-out before the relay to first, a fly ball where a runner fails to tag up and is doubled off, or a force at first followed by a throw across the field for another out. Double plays require precise timing, quick ball transfers, and strong, accurate throws to beat advancing runners.