Great Baseball Infielders Have 3 Things in Common
Great baseball infielders share three key attributes: steady hands, strong arms, and exceptional range. The ability to reach balls that other defenders can’t is what sets elite players apart. In this article, we’ll delve into why range is so crucial and outline four strategies to enhance it.
Understanding Range
Range refers to the amount of ground a baseball infielder can cover from their ready position. The more batted balls you can reach, the fewer gaps there are for hitters to exploit. Expanding your range not only boosts your defensive capabilities but also elevates your status as a top-tier infielder.
4 Proven Strategies to Increase Your Range & Become a Better Infielder
Lateral Movement Focus
- Avoid Forward Momentum: Don’t let your momentum drift toward the hitter upon reaching your ready position. A common issue is taking a step toward the batter when a pitch is taken or fouled off. Instead, concentrate on side-to-side movement.
- Balanced Stance: Landing with your weight on the inside balls of your feet, evenly distributed, prepares you to move efficiently in any direction, eliminating wasteful steps and enhancing your range.
Mastering Angles
Optimal Approach: Determine the best angle to approach any ball hit your way. Taking effective angles increases your range.Deep vs. Shallow Angles:
- Left Side: Consider taking a deeper angle, especially since the throw is shorter
- Right Side: A shallower angle might allow you to cut off the ball, resulting in a shorter throw and more control over the play.Strategy: Starting with a deep angle and adjusting as needed is generally more effective than beginning shallow and needing more space mid-play.
Explosive First Step
Initial Movement: Once in an athletic, side-to-side ready position with feet grounded, your first move should be explosive. It’s easier to decelerate than accelerate. Even for balls just a few feet away, an aggressive first step positions you advantageously.
Control the Play: Arriving early allows you to adjust and control the play, preventing the ball from dictating your actions.
By focusing on these four aspects, each potentially offering a half-step improvement, you’ll collectively notice a significant enhancement in your ability to cover ground. Implementing these strategies will distinguish you from other infielders, elevating your defensive performance.
PBI founder Doug Bernier debuted in the Major Leagues with the Colorado Rockies in 2008 and currently plays for the Minnesota Twins triple A team. Now in his 11th year of playing professional baseball, including time with the New York Yankees and Pittsburgh Pirates organizations, Doug decided it was time to leverage his contacts and share pro baseball tips from hundreds of industry pros with the dedicated baseball players and families who love the game of baseball and want to be the best players they can be.