Though there is quite a bit of controversy over who actually created the game of baseball, Abner Doubleday is widely thought to have created the game of baseball in 1839. In 1845, Alexander Cartwright established the rules, and the sport has taken off tremendously since that time.
Catcher
The main goal of the catcher is to keep the opposing team from scoring. Once the ball's in play, the catcher will step up to home plate and wait for the ball to be thrown to him so that he can get the runner out. Other responsibilities include catching foul balls and strikes.
Pitcher
A pitcher must pitch the ball to the batter, generally trying to pitch a strike. Other responsibilities include catching the ball when possible and quickly deciding which team member she should throw it to. She should try to prevent the other team from stealing bases by quickly throwing the ball to basemen if a runner is threatening to steal.
First Baseman
The first baseman is tasked with protecting first base. When the ball is in play the first baseman should be alert and watch for the ball to head his way. If a teammate throws the ball to him, he should try to touch the base with ball in hand to get the runner out. If the opposing team tries to steal a base, the first baseman should watch for the pitcher to throw him the ball to try and get the runner out. If possible, the first baseman should also attempt to catch foul fly balls.
Second Baseman
The responsibilities of the second baseman are similar to first and third baseman. She should attempt to protect her base and prevent a runner from getting through. Most often, the second baseman will attempt to catch the balls hit in her direction and throw them to the first baseman to get the batter out.
Third Baseman
The third baseman is responsible for catching all balls hit to his corner of the field. Because right-handed batters are known to hit the ball primarily to this side of the field, the third baseman has a big responsibility. In addition, the third baseman is tasked with catching fly foul balls if possible.
Shortstop
Shortstop is an important position. He will act as a backup second baseman as well as catch the many balls hit in his direction. Another goal of shortstop is to try to get double plays. If he is able to catch the ball and there is a runner on first already, he should throw the ball to second to get one runner out and allow the second baseman to throw the ball to first to get the batter out. He is also responsible for helping to get out a runner that is attempting to steal third base.
Left, Center and Right Fielders
A fielder is responsible for catching any ball that is hit into her designated area and throwing the ball back into play. She will need to be alert at all times and watch for fly balls, track down grounders and catch foul balls.
Member Comments