What's Your Ideal Position? (Beginner)
A Guide to Helping Your Younger Kids Decide
Today we're going to run through all nine positions and give you some tips you can use to figure out which one(s) your skills allow you to play best as spring training draws ever closer:
* Pitcher -- The best thing a young pitcher can bring to this position isn't a strong arm. It's the willingness to learn that separates standout pitchers from the rest. Good students make good pitchers.
* Catcher -- Being a good leader is what separates the catcher from any other position. And forget about the idea that the catcher is always the biggest, heaviest kid on the team. The ideal catcher is short, compact and durable. Being fearless doesn't hurt, either. The catcher is the coach on the field.
* First Base -- First base is one of the two positions where a left-hander has an advantage, because they face the infield when taking throws. Another key is being able to dig bad throws out of the dirt. Here's a position where having a strong arm isn't all that important.
* Second Base -- Second base is one of the most important positions on the team. More balls are hit to either the second baseman or shortstop than to either first or third base, so good defensive skills are needed. Good footwork is also important, especially on turning the double play. Think of a good second baseman as a graceful dancer in cleats.
* Shortstop -- If you're the best athlete on your team, then maybe shortstop is the position for you. Good range, good fielding, and a strong arm all are important. Leadership is, too. If the Catcher is the coach on the field, then the shortstop is the captain, because he's in charge of the entire infield.
* Third Base -- They call third base the 'Hot Corner' and with good reason. Since most hitters are right handed, a ball that's pulled down the line toward third base is usually hit hard. Good reactions and a strong arm are needed to play the position well. But don't think about playing here if you're left handed. Most balls are hit to the third baseman's left, and lefties wear their gloves on the right hand, making it hard to play this position.
* Left Field -- Left field is good for a right hander who isn't afraid of fly balls and doesn't have the strongest arm. The throw to second base is the same as it is for the right fielder and the throw to third base is the shortest for any outfielder.
* Center Field -- The center fielder is the captain of the outfield. He must catch flyballs, have a strong arm, and the ability to run fast. The center fielder has to chase down balls hit into the gaps.
* Right Field -- Right field is another good position for a left hander, because of wearing the glove on the right hand. Another plus is having a strong arm, because the throw to third base is the longest for any outfielder.
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