TIPS TO IMPROVE OUTFIELD PLAY

BY MIKE PERNICIARO, UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA

Everyone knows the importance of having outfielders with great speed, a good arm, and the ability to make routine catches.

All of these skills are expected and taken for granted by most coaches.

But how much time is devoted to the little things that make these skills possible? Your players can benefit from spending a small portion of your practice time on outfield preparation. Here are a few tips to work on, which can help:

1. Be mentally prepared of every situation. Before every player comes to the plate, review all possible options; know where the hitter likes to hit the ball, know where you should throw the ball, and where to go on your backups. Never be a spectator! There is a place for you to be on every play.

2. Know the field and weather conditions. Before the game, take a look at the outfield and identify any hazards such as rough or bumpy ground, sprinkler heads or water drains. Before each inning, check the wind direction, angle of the sun and conditions of the grass, Never be caught off guard when a ball takes a bad hop, skips on wet grass, or gets caught in the sun.

3. Get signals from the middle infielders before each pitch. This will allow you to anticipate which direction the hitter is likely to hit. But be sure not to overplay the because some hitters go against the norm. Also know your pitcher and her tendencies. You can usually tell of she has her good stuff that day of not.

4. Communicate with your teammates. Let each other know if you are playing deep/ shallow or pull/ opposite field, This allows you to know what adjustments need to be made on gap shots. Always call the ball if you can make the catch, Obviously this will help avoid collisions or miscommunications ( I thought she has it)

5. Have a good ready position. Outfielders should be in a relaxed position and step into every pitch. This will allow them to have their weight on the balls of their feet and ready to move in any direction. Getting a good jump is a must for every player.

By following these simple steps, outfielders can become more prepared to make the routine plays as well as the spectacular ones. It is important to stress better preparation, which will lead to better performance.

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