Outfielder Positions in Baseball: The Ultimate Guide
In baseball, the outfielders are the last line of defense against fly balls and grounders that get through the gap and threaten to allow runs to score. There are three outfield positions, and each one requires solid defensive skills to field the ball cleanly and throw it accurately over long distances back to the infield.
Outfielders cover the grassy area behind the baselines. These defensive positions get their names from their location from the batter’s point of view—that is, the left fielder is on the batter’s left when he is facing the pitcher, and the right fielder is on his right. Let’s take a closer look at the skills required of these important baseball positions.
Left Field: Agility, Stamina, and Field Awareness
Left fielders cover the area from the third base line to the left-center gap (roughly an imaginary line that extends from midway between second and third base out to the wall). Left fielders tend to be quite busy, since right-handed batters generally pull the ball in that direction. This is especially true in youth and recreational leagues, where right-handed batters outnumber lefties.
In addition to the stamina needed to cover many plays, left fielders also need to be quick on their feet, since a pulled ball comes off the bat quickly. They should be agile and able to judge the speed and direction of the many hits that will come their way.
Center Field: Leadership, Speed, and Range
The center fielder covers the largest territory in the outfield, so he needs exceptional speed to run down balls to his left or right. The center fielder acts as the outfield captain, so an advanced understanding of the game is essential, including knowledge of where the hitter is likely to locate the ball and where the best play is during any given situation.
As captain, the center fielder also needs strong leadership skills to make decisions and communicate them clearly to the corner outfielders. This often needs to happen in a split second to prevent home runs or stolen bases, so the center fielder should be confident and quick-thinking in addition to possessing reliable hands and a good arm.
Right Field: Arm Strength, Power, and Positioning
Right fielders cover the area from the first base line to the right-center gap. While they may field fewer hits than left fielders, right fielders need superior arm strength and accuracy. This is because they have to throw the ball farther to make an out if a runner tags up on a sacrifice fly—or if they want to nab a runner trying to stretch a double into a triple.
Right and left fielders often deal with different obstacles depending on the ballpark as well. For example, right fielders at Fenway Park in Boston have a quirky corner that can cause odd bounces for grounders, while left fielders need to be excellent at fielding balls that carom off the famous “Green Monster” left field wall.
How Outfielders Work Together
Though each outfielder position has a designated playing area, they must also work together to ensure that the entire field is covered—and to keep each other safe. Here are the main ways outfielders coordinate their play:
Calling the ball: When a fly ball is hit to the left- or right-center gap between positions, players shout “I got it” to let others know they have a clear line of sight and are planning to make the play. This lets the other player know to get out of the way to avoid a collision that could lead to an error or an injury.
Backing up the play: When one player calls the ball, the other doesn’t just stop playing. He typically then shifts into backup mode, where he positions himself slightly behind his teammate. This puts the player in position to quickly recover the ball if the player who called it misses or bobbles it.
Backing up infielders: On some plays, outfielders back up a throw to a base. This means the outfielder is positioned slightly behind the infielder to quickly recover any passed balls.
Running routes: Long before outfielders take the field in a game, they practice running routes. This means the players have decided ahead of time which position will take the lead and which will back up when the ball is hit to a certain area. Planning ahead and running drills help make the plays feel like second nature by game time.
Baseball Gear Essentials for Outfielders
In addition to skills and drills, the right gear can help outfielders play their best on the field. Here are the most important items for outfielders to keep in their equipment bag:
Outfield glove: Gloves designed for outfielder positions are generally bigger than infielders’ gloves. They have a deeper pocket to help secure the ball on the run, as well as a longer line to extend the player’s reach. Some players prefer H-webbing so they can see through the glove as they track a fly ball.
Outfield cleats: The right baseball cleats help provide traction on both infield dirt and outfield grass so players can be quick and agile on the field. Outfielders tend to make long dashes and need to move fast, so they should choose cleats that provide enough support for running. Many outfielders prefer metal cleats because they don’t pick up as much dirt and grass, but check your league and/or ballfield rules to make sure they’re allowed.
Baseball pants: Durable baseball pants are part of every team uniform, and many players wear them to practice as well. Many come with reinforced panels to last longer and better protect players when sliding.
Slider shorts: These undergarments wick away moisture and help reduce chafing for players on the run. They also have a pocket for a protective cup.
Long sleeve shirt: Keeping the arms covered helps protect the skin from abrasions when outfielders make diving catches, so they’re a good idea on all but the hottest days. Choose vented or breathable styles to help keep cool on the field during summertime games.
Being a great outfielder takes concentration, practice, and great communication. With a focus on skills and speed, you can put yourself in a position to make game-saving catches.