Playing a Lefty and They are Stacking? Try This!

In pickleball, facing a team with a left-handed player can be challenging, especially if they’re stacking to maximize their court advantage. Stacking allows the lefty to position themselves in a way that plays to their strengths, often catching opponents off guard. But with the right strategy, you can overcome this challenge. Here are four tips to help you beat a team with a lefty who’s stacking:

1. Target the Backhand

Left-handed players often have a weaker backhand, just like right-handed players. When the lefty is stacked, they’re usually set up to use their dominant forehand. By consistently targeting their backhand, you can force errors and reduce their effectiveness. Aim for shots down the middle or cross-court to their backhand side.

2. Utilize Cross-Court Dinking

Cross-court dinking can disrupt the lefty’s rhythm, especially if they’re stationed on the right side of the court. Since the lefty is likely to favor their forehand, a well-placed cross-court dink can draw them off balance or push them into awkward positions, opening up opportunities for you to attack.

3. Exploit the Gap in the Stack

When a team is stacking, there’s often a brief moment of confusion or a gap as they switch positions. Watch for these moments, especially during serves and returns. By hitting into the gap or catching them mid-transition, you can create easy scoring opportunities.

4. Keep Them Guessing

Vary your shot placement and keep the lefty moving. Don’t let them settle into a rhythm where they can predict your shots. Mix up your drives, lobs, and drop shots, forcing them to react rather than dictate the pace. This unpredictability can throw off their stacking strategy and create openings for you to capitalize on.

By using these four strategies, you can level the playing field and outmaneuver a team with a lefty who’s stacking. Remember, the key is to disrupt their rhythm, target weaknesses, and exploit any gaps in their positioning. Happy playing!