Defensive play in baseball is one of the most overlooked aspects of the game. Fans love to see the power hitter belt a long home run and watch a pitcher with a great fastball who can pile up strikeouts. However, while both offense and pitching are huge parts of the game, teams that can consistently make plays in the field have an outstanding chance to win. Those teams don't give extra at bats to their opponent, and they are dependable. Playing first, second and third base are three of the most important defensive positions.
Step 1
Catch all throws from infielders when playing first base. On any ground ball not hit to you, you must run to first, anchor your foot to the bag and provide a target to the infielder to deliver a throw. A first baseman must become adept at scooping up throws that are in the dirt or that bounce to first base. A first baseman must catch any ground ball that comes in his direction. If he can run to first base to retire the batter, that's fine. However, if he is too far away to make that play, he must throw to the pitcher covering the base. On any bunt play, the first baseman must charge in toward home plate to pick up the ball and then fire an accurate throw to second or third to get the lead runner. A first baseman must hold on any baserunner when the pitcher prepares for the next batter. If the pitcher throws to first, the first baseman must catch the ball and attempt to tag the runner out. A first baseman must also line up outfielders when they throw home and cut the ball off when directed to by the catcher.
Step 2
The second baseman must range far to his left or right to cut off ground balls that are headed toward the outfield. He must then throw to first in an attempt to retire the batter. However, if he does not think he can get the batter, he should not throw if there is no chance to get the out. The second baseman must throw to second if he gets a ground ball with a runner on first base in an attempt to get a force play and start a double play. He must cover second base if a ground ball is hit toward shortstop or third, and there is a runner on first. After accepting the throw on the force play, he must quickly deliver an accurate throw to first to get a double play. The second baseman may have to cover second on a stolen base attempt. He shares that responsibility with the shortstop, and it is determined before each pitch which player will cover the base on a steal attempt.
Step 3
The third baseman must pick up all ground balls he can reach, whether the ball is to his right or his left. On a ball hit down the third base line, the third baseman must demonstrate quick reactions and get his glove in front of the ball, transfer it to his throwing hand and fire quickly to first base. On a ball to the left, the third baseman cannot assume the shortstop will get the ball. It is an easier play for the third baseman because he cuts the ball off before it gets deep in the hole for the shortstop. Again, the throw must be delivered quickly and accurately. The third baseman must throw to second if there is a runner on first base in order to get the force play and start a double play. On a bunt play, the third baseman must charge in, pick up the ball in his bare hand and fire a strike to first in order to get the batter out.
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