At any time during a baseball game, each player on the field -- an outfielder, infielder, pitcher or catcher -- may need to catch a fly ball. Catching a fly ball requires coordination, a keen eye, quick judgment and fast reflexes. Within seconds, you must judge the direction, speed and trajectory of the ball and get into the proper position. Showing good form when catching the ball and knowing where to throw the ball once it's caught are keys to completing the play to your team's advantage.
Step 1
Track the ball to determine its path once it's in the air. Call for the ball by yelling "I've got it" to avoid colliding with other players. Listen for instructions from other players to judge where the ball will land.
Step 2
Run as fast as you can to the spot where the ball will land. Run in a curve behind the path of the ball. Keep an eye on the fly ball at all times.
Step 3
Adjust your position so you are under the ball as it drops. Use your glove to shield your eyes from the sun as you track the ball, if necessary.
Step 4
Open your glove and bring it up over your head. Hold the glove over the shoulder of your throwing arm, if possible. Open your other hand and place it along the thumb of the glove.
Step 5
Watch the baseball over the top edge of the webbing in your glove. Catch the ball in the glove's webbing and quickly snap the glove shut with both hands to prevent the ball from falling out.
Tips and Warnings
- Before the play, watch the ball travel from the pitcher to the batter to determine what pitch was thrown. A fly ball from a slow pitch, such as a change-up, may arc differently than a fly ball hit off of a fastball. Observe the stance and angle of the batter to determine the direction the fly ball will take.
Things You'll Need
- Baseball glove
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