Competitive softball is a sport that is dominated by pitching. Many games tend to be low-scoring, which means one or two runs often decide games. Since scoring can be so difficult, it is essential for teams to be reliable on the defensive side to win games.
Use Your Body
Particularly when playing an infield position, the fielder must get in front of the ball. Do not try to field the ball from the side. You may miss it, and it can get past you and into the outfield. However, if you put your body in front of the ball, you won't likely let the ball get through. If you don't catch it, it can bound off of your body, but remain in front of you --- so you won't give your opponent an extra base. Making the commitment to keep your body in front of the ball will help your team's defensive execution.
Double-Play Situations
If you are playing shortstop or second base, you will be expected to turn a double play when you get the opportunity. If you are a second baseman and a right-handed batter is up, you need to "cheat," and take two steps closer to second base than you normally would if a runner was not on base. This will help you get to the bag quickly so you can catch the throw from the shortstop, third baseman or pitcher. The same holds true for the shortstop when the left-handed batter is up. Note that this is not actually cheating --- it's merely a softball/baseball expression.
Hit the Cutoff Man
When you field a single in the outfield and there is a runner on second base, you should throw the ball toward home in order to throw out the runner and keep a run from scoring. But you can't just uncork a long throw that rainbows toward the catcher. You need to line your throw up with the cutoff man, the infielder who will line up between you and home. An accurate throw will give this fielder --- generally the shortstop (if the hit is to the left side of the outfield) or the second baseman (if the hit is to the right side of the outfield) --- the opportunity to catch your throw and throw out the runner taking off from second, or the batter, who may try to advance to second base. This is essential to playing good defense. You can't give your opponent extra bases and extra outs. Hitting the cutoff man will help your team get off the field and up to bat.
Member Comments