Cutoffs and Relays

Source: ABCA, Skills and Drills

All Fielders

Every player has a job to do on every play.
Fielders generally throw the ball one base ahead of the lead runner.
Fielders must think about what they may have to do with the ball before it comes to them.
Players should communicate confidently and loudly with teammates.

Outfielders should try to make all throws to bases using a ball trajectory that will allow the ball to be cut off by an infielder. The throw should also have enough carry to reach the base (if not cut) on a line or only take one long hop.
The throw to the cutoff man should be chest to head high.

The relay man should have his hands in the air to give a target to the outfielder.
The cutoff and relay men should be in a position to make a perfect throw to the intended base if needed. They should never position themselves farther from the target than their abilities allow.
As the ball is released in his direction, the relay man should move to keep the ball on his glove side and the ball about head high.
As he is about to catch the ball he needs to turn his lower body to line up with his target.
His hands should not drop below his chest because he must throw the ball quickly.
As he makes his throw, he makes a right foot left foot shuffle step (for right-handed thrower) towards his target.