BBSA Field Preparation Notes
Removing Puddings
The Pole Barn is equipped with mop buckets and puddle pillows. Place the puddle pillow in the middle of the puddle and let it absorb the water. Squeeze the pillow through the mop bucket ringer while applying other pillows. Repeat until there is no more water.
DO NOT SWEEP OUT THE PUDDLES WITH A BROOM - That will only cause more problems after the rain.
The use of more than (4) bags of field dry will cause the surface to become slippery on dry days. If it is going to take more than 4 bags of field dry, then the better option is to postpone the game for another day.
Dragging the Fields
There are two types of field drags in the Pole Barn - a metal mat and a spike drag. The metal mat will smooth the surface while the spike drag will loosen the surface. Using both will help level the field by cutting down high spots and filling low spots.
1. Remove the bases and any junk from the field like sticks, rocks or grass clippings.
2. Spike drag slowly.
3. Slowing drag the field with a metal mat drag. Keep the drag at least 6 inches from the grass edge to prevent lip build up.
Tips & Hints
1. Change the direction of dragging frequently to prevent constant buildup at the same places.
The spiral dragging method is usually the best for preventing these buildups.
2. Use a field rake along the grass edge to level it.
3. Don't just drag before practice or a game. Drag afterwards and you'll have a better field moving forward. If you don't, the foot
marks harden from the overnight dew or rain. You'll have to work harder the next day.
Mistakes to Avoid
1. Always enter and exit the field at the same place with the drag. It's not unusual for a field to have a lump or high spot at 3B or
1B where the drag always stops, leaving a build up of dirt.
2. BIGGEST MISTAKE: Not dragging before and after games & practices.
3. Don't drive too fast. It doesn't smooth it out and causes build up on the turns.
4. Avoid dragging past the dirt and onto the grass, which will inevitably cause a lip buildup.