It takes quite a bit of practice to become a confident fly ball catcher in the outfield. You have to stay ready. A fly ball hit into an overcast sky can be simple to catch. However, trying to catch that same fly ball on a windy day or looking into a cloudless sky can be difficult.
Step 1
Get a good jump on the ball. Before the ball is pitched, consider several factors including the speed the pitcher is throwing at, the tendencies of the batter, the way the wind is blowing and the situation in the game. All these will help you get a good jump. If you are playing rightfield and a right-handed batter is up, be prepare to run to your right because if he hits a ball your way it will probably go to right center. He could hit it down the right field foul line, which would be you to your left, but it is far less likely.
Step 2
Make your judgement where the ball will end up while you are running. Make your first step a crossover step so you can approach full speed fairly quickly. That means if you are playing left field and the ball is hit toward left centerfield, your first step should be your right foot crossing over your left.
Step 3
Keep your eye on the ball throughout your approach to the ball. If you are headed back toward the wall in an effort to catch a deep fly ball, you can take your eye off the ball for a split second to determine where the wall is and how much time you have before you hit it. Return your focus to the ball as soon as you have figured this out.
Step 4
Hold the glove with the fingers pointing to a sky on any fly ball that is waist level or above. Hold the glove with the fingers pointing down on any ball that is below waist level.
Step 5
Close your glove after you feel the ball make contact with the leather pocket or web of your glove. Use your free hand to close up the pocket and help ensure that the ball stays in the glove. Once you have secured the ball and made the catch, fire the ball back into the infield to prevent runners from advancing.
Tips and Warnings
- Use your glove to shade your eyes from the sun. Many outfielders do this when they are tracking fly balls to keep from losing focus on the ball.
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