Each of the moves on this page must become an instinctive part of the practice and play routine for every infielder. Often they'll determine whether you have the instincts of an infielder or are better suited to outfield. To get the full effect, log in.




Play the Ball, don't let the ball play you.
On every pitch, start with a slow, low, creep forward - on the balls of your feet, with both arms out in front of you. This momentum will keep you off your heels, and you'll be in an athletic position ready to charge or turn to either side.




Turn and follow your glove
Every fielding play should start with the expectation/anticipation that you'll be able to take the ball slightly on the glove side but mostly in front of you. But there will be times when you can't get more of your body behind the ball - a hard liner, or bad hop could take it to the side. If you just reach out to the side, you might misjudge - so get your body to commit to the play by turning it to "follow your glove".




Tracking the bounces
When the hit is off to the throwing side, you need to execute a backhand catch. Some fielders prefer to turn out with their leading hip, others prefer to rotate and cross over first. Their are arguments in favor of each, and for some it comes down to personal preference. We recommend you try both moves and decide which works best for you - by best we don't just mean most comfortable, but quickest and farthest reach. Note: the animation ends with a specific shortstop toss.