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
Coach John Peter, presently aged 50 something, is a lifelong student of the greatest game on earth. After being asked to find a more suitable occupation at age 26, many seasons after donning his first uni at age 7, he has transcended his skills into the much more important role of coach and especially as an instructor! He prides himself as never having charged any player or coach for a single lesson!