Continued from page 1
Shortstop- The leader of your infield and very quick and hopefully, fast. If he can't cover
whole left side of
infield, than he should be a 2nd baseman. Should be very athletic and maybe your leadoff or #2 hitter.
3rd baseman- Strong arm, doesn't have to be
quickest but should be able to cover
line because your shortstop will cover to his left if he can't reach it. The older
player,
more he is looked at as a power guy.
Left Fielder- Should be able to charge in very well because he needs to play deeper than most of your outfielders due to so many right-handed pull hitters. Doesn't need
best arm but couldn't hurt.
Center Fielder- Good to great arm, should be one of
best and quickest athletes on your team. If he can't cover much ground, don't pick him or put him in left or right if he has a superior arm. He gives
corner outfielders confidence. Remember…the game is won "Up
Middle"!
Right Fielder- Big arm, needs to make
longest throws on
field. Again,
older
player,
more he is expected to hit for power. Doesn't need great speed, covers limited amount of ground.
Always watch players warm up and practice when they are not "in
spotlight;" that will tell you a lot about how they play.
Always make sure most of your team can pitch or catch. You can never run out of those. Pitchers at
younger levels tend to be
most athletic and/or advanced players.
In
end, play a game. Here's
best idea I have. Line them up and number off by threes. The 1's hit,
2's play infield, and
3's play outfield. A coach or machine pitches. Start them with a 1 ball and 1 strike count to speed it up. Pitch average fastball speed for
age group, nothing on either extreme. You will see a lot of repetitions, situations etc. and
guys will relax and have some fun. Remember, kids know how to play, some just don’t "test" as well as others. Coach JP’s Note: When evaluating baseball talent… Think Arm Speed, Bat Speed, Foot Speed And never forget, attitude, and all that that implies.
Get your free instructional articles at www.baseballtips.com
