by Thomas Walters

Created on: April 04, 2009

Anyone who played baseball as a child knows the dreaded position. Right Field. The most lonely position on the field, where the unproven, the unwanted, and unskilled are sent. In fact any outfield position gets pretty lonely till kids reach ten or eleven. As soon as they reach that age, the need for skilled outfielders skyrockets. All of a sudden, the most valuable player a coach can have is a good outfielder. There was no need to practice the position before, and now when they're needed, there are none, or a very few. A good outfielder must have an an eye, an arm, and a physical recklessness allowing you to go absolutely all out for the ball.

First, and probably most importantly, an outfielder must be able to catch the ball. Many steps must be followed prior to the catch to improve an outfielder's chance of catching the ball, and to improve his speed in throwing the ball. Let's say a pop fly was towering over the outfield. The first thing to do immediately after the ball is in the air, is judge it. This means to figure out where it will land. Trust me, as easy as this sounds, it's tough. If the fielder thinks he can get the ball, let all the other fielders know by calling for it. If the ball is hit to either side of the fielder, it may be easier to judge distance, but when it's hit straight at him, it's difficult. Usually he will have the other outfielders yelling at him. "Back! Back!" This is a huge help. If the ball is hit straight at him though, the mind is telling him to go forward to the ball. Don't do this at all. When in doubt, go backwards. From personal experience I have established this rule because too many times has a ball lifted over my head after I rushed forward after it. When running back after a ball, never ever backpedal. Backpedaling throws you off-balance, and hurts your ability to view the ball. Turn your hips and watch the ball over your shoulder. This allows you to run faster, keep your eye on the ball, and prevents you from tripping and falling over backward. Whichever direction the fielder goes, he should always sprint there. Better to be there early than to miss the catch on account of not getting to the ball. Once the outfielder reaches the spot the ball will land, he should take a step back, and then meet the ball coming forward as he makes the catch. This provides momentum for his throw.

The second huge component to being an outfielder is throwing the ball. The fielder must have a strong arm and an accurate one. There are many ways

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