Updated: 3/21/25.

Why Shortstop Is Baseball’s Most Demanding Position

I’ve coached hundreds of kids over the years, and there’s always a special intensity that comes with developing a shortstop. It’s arguably the most demanding defensive position on the field, requiring quick reactions, a strong arm, and exceptional field awareness. I’ve seen talented athletes struggle at short because they lacked the fundamentals, and I’ve seen average athletes excel because they mastered these core skills. Today, I’m sharing the essentials every shortstop needs to own their territory between second and third.

The Mental Game Makes The Shortstop

A great shortstop isn’t just physically prepared—they’re mentally two steps ahead of every play. From my experience working with infielders at all levels, I’ve found these mental attributes separate the good from the great:

• Your shortstop must anticipate all defensive plays that could involve them, always ready to throw to the right base or home.
• They need to stay on top of the ball with most throws, planting their feet and throwing overhand whenever possible.
• A skilled shortstop works constantly on holding runners close, understanding the timing of when to cover the bag.
• They should charge the ball aggressively, especially on topped or slow-hit balls past the pitcher.
• When the bunt is on, covering second base becomes their responsibility.
• Smart shortstops position themselves to field the ball by “cheating” slightly toward their weaker side.

Proper Set Position: The Foundation Of Great Defense

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to correct a shortstop’s initial stance. Your entire defensive capability starts with how you set up before the pitch is thrown. Here’s what I teach:

• The shortstop’s feet should be spread slightly more than shoulder-width apart.
• Toes should be turned slightly outward to make lateral movement easier.
• Keep the left foot three to four inches in front of the right foot, with body weight balanced on the balls of the feet and knees slightly bent.
• Maintain a straight back, with hands resting comfortably on the knees and head up, scanning the field.

The Ready Position: That Critical Moment Of Truth

There’s a world of difference between simply standing at shortstop and being truly ready when the ball is hit. When the pitcher begins their delivery:

• Move your hands from your knees to stomach level and slightly out in front of your body.
• Focus your eyes intently into the strike zone, watching the ball and anticipating where it might be hit.
• Mentally prepare for a line drive in the direction of third base, which requires the quickest reaction.
• Keep your weight forward on the balls of your feet, ready to explode in any direction.

Fielding Ground Balls: Technique Matters

I’ve repaired enough infield lips to know that every ground ball is an adventure. Your shortstop’s technique can make or break your infield defense:

• Move straight towards the ball without straightening up. Standing tall shifts weight from the balls of your feet to your heels, slowing your reactions.
• Stay low throughout the approach, keeping your body under control and eyes locked on the ball until it rolls into your glove.
• For balls hit to your right, use the crossover step, then straighten up and make the throw.
• Ground balls to your left require a crossover step, pivoting on your left foot while keeping your body in front of the ball, then straightening up and planting your right foot before throwing.

Fielding Pop Flies: Own Your Territory

Pop flies in the infield create confusion if your team doesn’t have clear communication rules. From my years of experience, here’s what works:

• The shortstop goes back on all pop flies until an outfielder calls them off.
• Always make an effort to get to balls that are hit behind the third baseman, as you’ll typically have a better angle.
• Take charge with a loud, clear call when you have the best play on the ball.

Making The Double Play: Timing Is Everything

There’s nothing prettier in baseball than a crisp 6-4-3 double play. But there’s more to it than just quick hands:

• Don’t leave your fielding position too soon. The ball remains your primary focus as it may be hit directly at you.
• Avoid assuming every ball hit is a double play opportunity. Always prioritize getting the lead runner.
• When fielding the ball for an unassisted putout, let your momentum carry you across the bag and out of the way of a charging runner.
• For pivot plays at second, clear the bag quickly after the throw to avoid collisions.

Backing Up Bases: The Unsung Responsibility

Great shortstops aren’t just making the highlight plays—they’re also must be in the right position when things go wrong. These backing-up responsibilities are critical:

• Cover second base when the second baseman is handling a steal attempt.
• Back up third base on throws from the catcher.
• Be prepared to back up throws to the pitcher from the catcher after a pitch.

Elevate Your Infield Defense With Baseball Tips

Having coached some exceptional shortstops over the years, I can tell you that mastering these skills takes dedicated practice. This position isn’t for everyone, but for those with the right combination of quickness, arm strength, and baseball IQ, it’s the most rewarding spot on the diamond.

At Baseball Tips, we’ve been helping coaches develop better infielders since 1999. Whether you need the right training equipment for your hitters, like our pro-quality batting turtles, our specialized infield protective screens, or top-grade hitting mats, or our catch nets to help improve your shortstop’s throwing accuracy, we’ve got you covered. Our equipment is field-tested by coaches and players who understand what works.

Give us a call at 1-800-487-7432 (M-F 10am-7pm EST) if you have questions about the best baseball field equipment to improve your practice. Our team of former coaches and players can recommend training product options to help improve your shortstop’s game. Remember, at Baseball Tips, we don’t just sell equipment—we help build players and programs!