Essay On The Nine Fielding Positions

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In the game of Baseball there are nine fielding positions. Each position is associated with a scorekeepers’ numerical number (from 1-9) to be used in scoring putouts. Each player has a special job associated with that position to help the team win. The game’s most important positions are the pitcher and the catcher. They are what the team revolves around and are called the “battery.” The pitcher’s position is known numerically as number (1) and the catcher’s is number (2). They control the tempo and intensity of the game. The pitcher’s job is to deliver the ball to home plate, keep the ball in the strike zone, and retire the batter by strike out, force out or fly ball. He must also field his position by catching pop flies, charging bunts, …show more content…

He controls his base and backs up the first baseman when necessary. During a bunt situation when the batter taps the ball to one side of the field, the second baseman must be aware so he can cover first base and act like the first baseman. He must also be quick, have good fielding skills and the ability to avoid base runners. The third baseman mostly stays in his corner of the field, which is called the “hot corner” because the balls come to him so fast. His responsibility is to field balls hit to the left side of the infield. He must be quick, efficient, show no fear and have a strong accurate arm to throw across the diamond to first base. Also during a bunt situation the third baseman must charge forward as fast as he can to pick up the ball and throw the runner out. Shortstop is a difficult and important defensive position. The shortstop sees the most action, has the largest ground to cover on the field, and must routinely rotate to cover second and third base and back those players up. He must act as a cut-off man for balls being hit to center or right field. He has the same basic responsibilities as the second baseman in fielding balls and turning double plays, however, he needs to have better arms, hands, and feet, be quick, have a good range, and the ability to lead the infield. Every player must have this mentality but the shortstop must be a

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