Proper Baseball Fielding

Pitching and hitting get most of the attention on the baseball diamond, but good fielding is an essential part of any successful team. The fundamentals of good fielding are crucial to playing defense. Without the proper techniques, fielders make more errors and allow more runs to score.

  1. Preparation

    • Proper fielding begins before the ball is even hit. You should always be in the "ready position" before a pitch to have the best chance of making a play. Lean slightly forward, with your knees bent and your weight on the balls of your feet. Your glove should be low and ready for action. Your feet should be a shoulder-width apart as you watch the pitch.

    Ground Balls

    • When a ground ball is hit you, drop to one knee and keep your chest facing the ball. Stay in front of the ball and look it into your glove. By being in front of the ball, you will be protecting against the bad hops that ground balls often take. You'll be able to knock the ball down with your body and can still make a play.

    Pop Flies

    • When the ball is hit in the air, run to a spot slightly behind where the ball should land. Keep your eyes on the ball until it is all the way into your glove and use two hands to make the catch.

    Throwing

    • Once you field the ball, take your time before making a throw to the proper base. Face the person you are throwing to and set your feet to make an accurate throw.