To complete the double play, a shortstop uses their strong arm to get the most velocity on the throw to first base. When covering second on a double play ball, they run the risk of getting wiped out by a sliding baserunner. This is also helpful on cut off throws from the outfield.
A shortstop needs a strong arm to make sure they can always make an accurate throw, no matter where they are located. In addition to range, a shortstop needs to have a strong, accurate arm.ĭue to the amount of ground they cover, some throws are farther than others. The greatest defensive shortstops, like Derek Jeter and Ozzie Smith were known for this ability.
From a ball hit up the middle, to a foul ball by the left field stands, a shortstop has to reach all of them. With a position that is essentially an extra defensive player, shortstops are asked to cover a lot of ground. Range is defined as the amount of ground a player can cover when fielding a ball in play. The truly great shortstops of all time are the rare ones who possess all of these qualities, and then some. In addition, they need athleticism and strong communication skills. As mentioned early, a shortstop needs to have great range and a strong arm. Overall, a great shortstop must have certain qualities. Read on to find out which ideal qualities make for a great shortstop. This is to ensure they both understand their responsibilities on a given play. Shortstops often relay the defensive alignment to the second baseman. When a second baseman shifts their defensive alignment toward first, shortstop must support them too. When a third baseman has to guard close to the third base line, shortstops support them by covering more ground towards the third base area. However, shortstops are also responsible for helping their fellow players. Secondary Field Generalįor the most part, a catcher is considered the field general on defense. With both positions responsible for defending the same base, clear and effective communication is of the utmost importance. The shortstop and second baseman have to understand who is located where during each play. Working in tandem with the second baseman, a shortstop must communicate effectively with their double play partner.Ī shortstop must communicate when they are covering second base, or heading into the outfield to receive a cut off throw. Then, they throw the ball to whichever base they can make a play at.
On balls hit to left field or center field, a shortstop runs into the outfield grass to receive a throw from the outfielder. It is a very reactionary position, much like third base.In addition to fielding grounders and pop ups, shortstops are also responsible for taking cut off throws from the outfield. In addition, they are responsible for any balls hit up the middle of the diamond that are out of the reach of the second baseman.īalls hit to the shortstop are often hit hard. Any ball hit to the left side of the infield should be within range for a shortstop to field. The greatest shortstops are known for their range. No matter what, shortstops must have strong defensive skills. Shortstops have many roles on a baseball team. Read on to find out what the role of the shortstop is.
These include current free agents Carlos Correa and Francisco Lindor of the New York Mets. However, most shortstops are athletic, making them a great asset in a team’s baserunning game.Ĭurrently, there are several prolific offensive shortstops in Major League Baseball. Their offensive skill set determines their place in the batting order. On offense, shortstops can bat anywhere in the order. Due to this, they also need a strong arm as most throws to first are rather far. Shortstops must possess the ability to cover a lot of ground. Since a third baseman often plays close to third base, there is a sizable gap between second base and the edge of a third baseman’s range. When on the field, a shortstop positions themselves between second and third base. With a general idea of what a shortstop is, let us look at what position they play. Shortstops have many defensive responsibilities. They cover the most ground of any defensive position on the diamond.
Finally, discover a few tips on how to become a great shortstop.įirst, let us start by answering the question, what is a shortstop in baseball?Ī shortstop is a player who is positioned between second and third base on defense. In this article, we will discuss their position on the field, the role of a shortstop, and the ideal qualities a successful shortstop possesses. Above all, shortstops are a vital part of any baseball team. The position requires a wide array of skills. The shortstop position in baseball serves many roles on the diamond.