If you want elite infield defense, you need more reps and better reps.
A baseball rebounder creates controlled chaos. And that’s where real development happens.
Below are the most effective baseball rebounder drills for infielders — from youth players to varsity starters.
Why Train With a Baseball Rebounder?
A high-quality baseball rebounder allows players to:
- Get hundreds of reps without a partner
- Train unpredictable hops
- Improve reaction time
- Develop soft hands
- Sharpen quick transfers
- Build throwing accuracy
Unlike wall ball, rebounders return the ball at varied angles and speeds. That unpredictability simulates real in-game ground balls.
If your goal is faster hands and better footwork, this is where you start.
1. Rapid-Fire Ground Ball Drill
Purpose: Improve hand speed and glove positioning
Best For: All infielders
Set the rebounder at the first setting (Straight up to form a 90 degree angle)
Stand 8–12 feet away.
Throw firm feeds into the net. Field the return cleanly and immediately return the ball.
Keep reps continuous — no pause.
Goal: 50 reps without a bobble.
This drill forces players to stay low, keep the glove out front, and maintain rhythm under fatigue.
2. Short-Hop Domination Drill
Purpose: Master tough in-between hops
Best For: Advanced youth & high school players
Move closer — 6–8 feet away.
Throw high, firm feeds that create short hops on the return.
Focus on:
- Soft hands
- Working through the ball
- Fielding it on the short hop
Short hops win games. Most players avoid training them. This drill builds confidence where others panic.
3. Backhand Survival Drill
Purpose: Develop arm-side range
Best For: Middle infielders
Adjust the rebounder to send balls slightly arm-side.
Start in ready position. React and drop-step quickly.
Field cleanly and reset fast.
Backhands are rarely practiced enough. This drill forces explosive first steps and glove control.
4. Reaction Speed Challenge
Purpose: Game-speed decision making
Best For: All Infielders
Stand 5–6 feet away.
Rapid-fire throws for 30 seconds.
No stopping. No resetting.
Heart rate rises. Hands must stay quick.
This simulates late-game fatigue when mechanics usually break down.
5. Field → Transfer → Throw Drill
Purpose: Improve throwing accuracy
Best For: All levels
Field the ball.
Shuffle your feet.
Make a strong, accurate throw back into the center of the net.
Focus on:
- Clean exchange
- Proper footwork
- Throwing through the target
Accuracy improves when reps are consistent and high volume.
Why a Rebounder Is Better Than Wall Ball
Walls give the same return every time. Rebounders create varied angles and speeds. That unpredictability trains true reaction ability.
For serious programs, that difference matters.
Rebounders also give you a consistent target, while wall ball doesn't.
This helps you train your accuracy while training your fielding, giving you more purpose when training.
Lastly, you don't always have a wall that you can throw a baseball into without damaging the wall or baseball.
A rebounder allows you to get worry-free practice in anytime, anywhere.
What To Look For in a Quality Baseball Rebounder
If you’re investing in training equipment, don’t buy lightweight backyard toys.
Look for:
✔ Heavy-duty steel frame
✔ Tight tension netting
✔ Adjustable angles
✔ Wide, stable base
✔ Weather-resistant materials
If it tips, bends, or loses tension — it’s not built for serious reps.
Final Thoughts
Elite defenders aren’t built on a few reps.
They’re built on constant game-like ones.
If your players need:
- Faster reactions
- Cleaner glove work
- Better throwing accuracy
- More reps without more coaches
A baseball rebounder is one of the smartest training tools you can add to your program.
Train smarter.
Get more reps.
Win more games.