Pickleball Shake and Bake

In pickleball, "Shake and Bake" is an aggressive doubles strategy designed to put pressure on the returning team right after the serve. It's a combination of a strong third shot drive (the "shake") followed by a partner crashing the net (the "bake") to put away the ball.

Here's how it works:

1. Server hits a deep serve to push the returner back.

2. Returner hits a return (usually deep).

One partner (often the server) hits a hard third shot drive aimed at the returner or their partner.

The other partner (the "baker") crashes the net, looking to intercept the next shot (usually a weak block or pop-up) and put it away with a volley.

Goal: Force a weak return off the drive and capitalize with a quick putaway volley.

Why it's effective:

It disrupts the returning team before they can establish a strong position at the non-volley zone.

It creates offensive pressure early in the rally.

When to use it:

When playing with a partner who has quick hands and is comfortable crashing the net.

Against opponents who struggle with handling fast-paced shots.