SolveYourProblem Article Series: Baseball
Teach Me About Baseball

Rules Every Baseball Infielder Must Follow

The infield positions are some of the most important ones in baseball. They are comprised of the first, second, and third baseman, as well as the shortstop. Their main goal is to defend the various bases and prevent the other team from scoring. This may involve catching fly balls, fielding bunts, and knowing exactly which base to throw to in order to be able to get an opposing player out. Here are some things that every infielder should know.

First, an infielder must think about what he wants to do with the ball, before the ball is even pitched. It is important that they know what is going on in the game. If there are no men on the plates, then it is important to either catch the ball on the fly or get it back to first base as quickly as possible. If the bases are loaded, it may be more important to get the player on third out to prevent a score. Stay focused and know what is going on around you.

Next, know you need to know your opponent. It is important to consider the speed of the batter and the runners that are already on base. That way you will know how much time you have to get the ball where it needs to go. However, it is important not to panic and to be able to keep cool. Focusing on knocking a hard hit ball down and keeping it in the infield will optimize the amount of time you have to make a play.

Keep the communication up! This is especially true for the shortstop and second baseman – they need to talk to each other. Work out ahead of time who is covering second for a steal and who will take a throw from the pitcher.

Learn your catcher’s signs and so that you have an idea of what the next pitch is that is being thrown. This will give you some idea of what direction the ball might be headed. For example, a fastball away to a right-handed batter may mean a ball to the right side of the infield.

Always keep your eye on the ball. Watch it all the way into your glove. Failure to do so may result in a missed catch and an error.

Keep your body in a good position. It is important to try to field the ball from the middle of your body over to your glove side. This will give you the most control over the ball.

Keep your glove open! This means using the entire surface of your glove: the heel of the glove to your fingertips and the width of your glove from your thumb to your little finger.

Use your feet when you throw and crow hop. To keep the ball from tailing, sinking, or running to the player you are throwing to, throw the ball cross seam. Always focus on your target, stressing accuracy, and don’t watch the flight of the ball.

If the hit is a ground ball, remember to come in. If the ball is bouncing, use two hands to catch it. If it is rolling slowly you can use your bare hand. Work on going side to side on ground balls, focusing on proper footwork and balance and well as switching hands.

Practice your double plays, focusing on footwork and the transfer of the ball from the glove to your throwing hand. Work on going after fly balls in all directions, and also make sure that you practice shading the sun.

Being an infielder is a very important position. Know your part on the team, and what you need to do to help secure a win. If everyone does his or her part, you are that much closer to a winning season!

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SolveYourProblem.com : 2009

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