On the Field, Nobody is a Spectator or Fan

Every player on defense has a role to play with every hit ball. If a player is not in motion after a batted fair ball, they have become a spectator and can negatively impact the result of the play.  Many have become spectators on the field, forgetting they have role and responsibilities.  Let’s look at the infield player positions and some of their respective roles.

• First Basemen – any ground ball that is not in their reach, immediately runs to their base and sets up a target for the throw. They may wait a moment if hit to the pitcher or second basement in case there is a ricochet they can get to. Balls hit to right or right center, they cover the bag for a possible throw back.  They cover the bag for a possible back door play by the infield or prepare to back up a throw to second base from the left side of the outfield.  On an extra base hit, they back up the throw to second or line up home for a cutoff.

• Second Basemen – is lining up right field cutoffs for plays at second, third or home and knowing or listening where to throw the ball. Covering second base on balls to the left side and knowing when to cover for a force out.  With every ball hit they are in motion. With a fifth infielder, they communicate on every play with the middle fielder and shortstop as to their agreed upon role. They run to any shallow fly balls within their range and either call for the catch or back up others if they called for it. Never assume as that is being a spectator.

• Shortstop – has similar roles as second basemen but in reverse. Because more balls are hit center/left and they have a direct path to second base, they generally control the infielder. They determine who has the second base bag if the ball is hit to the pitcher.  With a middle fielder, they discuss cutoffs and who cover second base bag depending on the situation. 

• Third Basemen – goes after any ball they can get to as they are closer in the infielder than the shortstop. They cover the third base bag on any potential throws and prepare to back up any errant throws coming their way.  Shallow fly balls in the field of play are usually called by the shortstop because of their more preferred angle but foul balls are up to the closest person to make the catch.  Never assume the ball will not come to third base during a play, cover the base with a foot on or by the bag for any easy touch or tag.

• Pitcher – they not only get ready to field the ball but need to know what role they play on the team.  They are not the infield leader nor an observer.  They have a very important role that requires focus and preparedness. They can’t lose focus by critiquing the field play, no matter how difficult they can be.  They back up incoming throws behind third and home. Pitchers must know where to throw the ball, given the situation, when hit to them.  They cover first base on balls hit to the first basemen shouting to them Ball! or First! If they are standing still on the circle, they are missing their role on the team.

• Catcher – getting the ball back to the pitcher quickly and accurately is very important but there is much more. The worst thing is being a spectator.  The second worst thing is picking up the bat for the opposing team while the play is still in effect.  The catcher needs to stay close to home when players are on second or third.  When no runners are on base, they can back up first base.  The other part is being prepared to go after foul balls or tips near home plate. This means every swing is important to the catcher.