Fielding Basics
Before the pitch
Before each play a fielder (usually the shortstop) will call out the number of outs and which base
play is on. Before the pitch is thrown each fielder should think
What play do I make if the ball comes to me ?
and
What play do I make if the ball goes to someone else ?
Usually the player fielding the ball will gather it in and make a throw. Other infielders will
cover their base. Other outfielders will back up the play.
As the pitcher prepares to pitch the fielders should get into position to field the ball if
it comes to them, the 'ready position'. Infielders set up in a crouched position with their hands in front of
their body and with their feet slightly more than shoulder width apart.
The pitcher should also get into a ready position after releasing the pitch. Inexperienced
infielders, or fielders facing a heavy hitting team may wish to set up with their glove held slightly higher protecting their face.
Outfielders have more time to react to the ball after it is hit so the outfield ready
position is more upright.
Again the feet are slightly over shoulder width apart and the hands in front of the body.
All fielders should be watching the batter as the pitch comes in so that they can 'read' the hit as it comes off the bat.
Fielding a ground ball
Bend from the knees not from the waist. Field the ball well in front to keep the ball in sight.
Feet more than shoulder width apart to keep balanced.
Field the ball in front of the middle of the body.
The bare hand should cover the glove to trap the ball.
Catching a fly ball
Field the ball well in front to keep the ball in sight.
Field the ball in front of the middle of the body.
The bare hand should cover the glove to trap the ball and to allow a quick throw.
Throwing the ball
- Draw back the arm.
- Point the glove at the target, ball behind head, elbows at shoulder height.
- Start forward, lead with the throwing elbow, pull the glove down.
- Snap the wrist on release, pull down on the seams.
- Follow through until the throwing hand touches the glove-side leg.
Fielders in motion: Backing up
Backing up in the field is universally agreed to be a Good Thing but what does it mean in practice ?
At it's most general it means that all fielders should be alert to the fact that other fielders make mistakes
and be ready to deal with the results of other fielders mishaps.
It's a baseball cliche that there's no play called standing around. Every fielder should be active when the
ball is in play, fielding the ball, covering a base, preparing to receive a throw, or backing up another player who is
fielding or receiving the ball.
Fielding positions
Each position in the field has it's own characteristics and the fielder should be aware of their
special responsibilities........
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