200 SKILL REQUIREMENTS FOR DEFENCE BY POSITIONS

The strength of all good teams starts with their defence. Baseball is the only sport were the defence controls the ball. Matching the different positions with the athletes who's skills are best suited is paramount to winning.

Catcher:
Must have a strong arm to make the throw to second base, when a runner attempts to steal. Physically strong enough to block off  an advancing runner on a play at home plate. Good baseball instincts are required as the catcher is also "captain" of the defence.  He has the best view of the diamond and is responsible for signalling special defensive plays that his team may employ under certain game situations.

Pitcher:
In addition to pitching, pitchers are required to field batted balls that they are closest too, including bunts. They have to cover first base and home plate in certain play situations.

First -Base
Ideally this position suits a tall left-handed player best. They are the ones able to field ground balls and make a throw to second base quicker than a right-handed player. Either left or right- handed players must field ground balls that are thrown in the dirt and stretch to reach errant throws from other infielders.

Second- Base:
Quick hands and feet enable the second baseman to cover second base on  steal attempts. His quickness is important so he can cover his base or retrieve a batted ball quickly to help turn a double play.

Third -Base:
The third baseman relies on reflexes more than any other infielder to field the ball and protect himself from line drives. A good accurate throwing arm is required to make the throw from behind third base to first base.

Short-Stop:
Playing short-stop can be very demanding physically and mentally. The player must have good baseball instincts, as he is involved in many plays. He requires a good throwing arm to make the long throw to first base.

Field Positions:
The centre fielder is generally the fastest of the outfielders. He has to back up the other fielders and is the captain of the outfield. Generally, the right fielder will have a stronger throwing arm than the left fielder.

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