Baseball and softball training device and method

Abstract

A sports training device is configured to be supported by one of the below-grade base anchors typically available at baseball and softball fields. The device comprises a frame made up of a net holding portion and a support portion configured to support the net holding portion. The support portion includes an insert post configured to fit into the base anchor. The net holding portion is configured to be rotatable relative to the support portion about a vertical axis. The net holding portion can also be configured to be moved—and secured in a position—transverse to the vertical axis. The training device can thus be placed in several configurations in order to provide a net target in a desired position so that a player can practice delivering a ball to the net.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method for performing sports drills on a ball field having a plurality of below-grade base anchors, the method comprising:
 engaging an insert post of a training device with one of the plurality of below-grade base anchors, the training device comprising a frame having a support portion and a net holding portion, the net holding portion supporting a net, the support portion comprising the insert post;   moving the net holding portion relative to the support portion so that the net faces a desired training position on the ball field; and   targeting the net with a ball from the desired training position.   
     
     
         2 . The method as in  claim 1 , wherein moving the net holding portion comprises rotating the net holding portion relative to the support portion. 
     
     
         3 . The method as in  claim 1 , wherein the support portion has a vertical axis, and additionally comprising moving the net holding portion in a direction transverse to the vertical axis. 
     
     
         4 . The method as in  claim 3 , wherein moving the net holding portion in a direction transverse to the vertical axis comprises rotating the net holding portion about an axis transverse to the vertical axis. 
     
     
         5 . The method as in  claim 3 , wherein moving the net holding portion in a direction transverse to the vertical axis comprises translating the net holding portion along an axis transverse to the vertical axis. 
     
     
         6 . The method as in  claim 3 , wherein the support portion has a support pin, and comprising arranging an offset member atop the support pin, the offset member having an offset pin spaced from and parallel to the support pin, and attaching the net holding portion onto the offset pin. 
     
     
         7 . The method as in  claim 1 , additionally comprising attaching a net extender to the net holding portion so that a holder of the net extender is spaced from the net holding portion, and supporting the net with the holder. 
     
     
         8 . The method as in  claim 1 , additionally comprising assembling a portable support, removing the insert post from the base anchor and inserting the insert post into a post receiver of the portable support. 
     
     
         9 . The method as in  claim 1 , additionally comprising modifying a configuration of the support portion so as to change a height of the net holding portion. 
     
     
         10 . The method as in  claim 9 , wherein modifying the configuration of the support portion comprises adding or removing a vertical support member.