by Coach Griff

Every now and then, you’ll have to do some fielding.

Pitchers aren’t always the greatest fielders, thankfully we don’t need to learn many plays.

There are six ways you’ll need to field as a pitcher

To make it easy for pitchers, there are only ever five ways you’ll need to field.

1. Bunts

Whether intentionally or not, bunts are most often fielded by the pitcher.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ne-ogTzGEs

2. Comebacker

Anything hit back at you so fast you only have enough time to flinch in response.

If it’s a line drive, let’s hope your glove hand is close enough to defend you.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJxJN3hK9bs&t=23s

If it’s a ground ball, try to run the distance.

1. The moment you know you’ve fielded the ball cleanly
2. Run directly towards first base
3. If the runner gives up, keeping running until you touch the base
4. If the runner keeps up, underarm the ball to 1st base with an open palm

3. Covering first base

If a ball is hit to the right of your first base fielder, you will need to cover the base.

1. Run towards a mark 80ft along the first base line,
2. Then parallel to the first base line,
3. Catch the ball,
4. Run through first base
5. Pivot