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Player Positions TipsRead these 19 Player Positions Tips tips to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Each tip is approved by our Editors and created by expert writers so great we call them Gurus. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Baseball tips and hundreds of other topics. Become a Guru or Become an Advertiser.
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ConditioningMost young pitchers do not realize the importance of both strong legs and stamina. Long distance running is a mainstay for professional pitchers. You should add long distance running to your regimen if you are truly serious about pitching (run 3-5 times a week!) Get SidewaysWhen moving to field a fly ball, remember the words 'Get Sideways.' By doing a drop step and remaining sideways on your approach, you will have a much better chance to field the ball cleanly. 'Getting Sideways' helps you avoid backpedalling, which often gets you in the most trouble. Reading the pitchThird base is a reaction position. Balls are hit so hard to third base that quick reflexes are of major importance. In addition, learn how to read pitches. Get the sign from the shortstop and learn how hitters hit certain pitches from your pitching staff. This will give you an anticipating reflex that will allow you to react even quicker. jobs by
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The Field GeneralThe catcher needs to exert him or herself as the field general. Communication on the baseball field is necessary and a good catcher will take control. The catcher has the view of the entire field and can make the proper call for throws to each base. Three things to a fastballPeople usually focus on one aspect of a fastball...speed. But, there are three things to a fastball that make it effective : Having high velocity without the other two is just not good enough. PitchingJim 'Catfish" Hunter, Hall of Fame pitcher who threw a perfect game in 1968, says: Study stancesStudy hitters' stances to determine weaknesses. Hitters who dive into the ball can be beat with fastballs in and under the hands. One who bails in the box may be vulnerable to pitches on the outside corner. IceTake the time to ice your arm after pitching. Ice the shoulder and elbow for twenty minutes after throwing in any game or practice. Ice will reduce inflammation and a constant routine of icing will prolong your career. Make the time...you will realize the importance as you get older. The fastballTom Seaver once asked a crowd of reporters, "What is the most important pitch in baseball?" The fastball is certainly the most important pitch in the game. It sets up and builds the foundation for all other pitches! The PitchingThis is a great way to improve pitching form and ensure that a pitcher is striding towards the plate. First Base DefenseFirst basemen are sometimes known to be lumbering fielders. But, don't discount the value of a solid first baseman. ChangeupThe changeup is a valuable pitch and is an art within itself. There are several ways to throw a changeup, but the key is deception. The motion, the body, and arm cannot slow down or you will be giving the pitch away. The circle or "okay" changeup is the most popular form of this pitch. Get properly schooled on this pitch. It will be a valuable part of your arsenal. Pitchers Fielding PracticeIn the pros, Pitchers Fielding Practice is done every day in spring training. Pitcher defense affects the outcome of many games. Fielding a bunt and throwing to the right base, covering first on a ground ball, or making a good pick-off throw are important and should be part of your training routine. Be the leaderThe shortstop has priority over all other fielders. A good shortstop is also a solid leader. Always let your teammates know how many outs there are. Help in positioning, covering bags, etc. You don't necessarily have to be extremely vocal, but make sure you are the communicator on the field! Crow hopLearn how to do a proper "crow hop" from the outfield. By using your forward momentum and doing a crow hop, you will be able to maximize your throwing arm. StretchingThe most basic thing to learn at first base when fielding a throw is to NOT stretch too early. Only stretch upon seeing the trajectory and aim of the throw. Stretching too soon will only limit your range and tangle your feet! PositioningAn outfielder needs to learn how to read the ball as it comes off a bat. You also need to learn how to read a batter's swing. Are they timing the fastball? Fooled by the curve? Taking good hacks or swinging late? By analyzing an opponent's swing and then getting the pitch from your shortstop you will be able to better anticipate how the batter will hit the ball. Catcher TimesWhat is a good time for a catcher's throw to second base? CurveballThe curveball is the pitch that can be the most dangerous to the arm. Be sure you are schooled in the proper mechanics of a curve before attempting to throw at full speed. Learn the proper grip. A four seam curveball is the only way to go. |
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