5 Tips for Improving as a Shortstop

Playing shortstop in the game of baseball requires much more than a talent for fielding the baseball. You are considered a leader on the team as a rule and you have to take charge of the infield. Shortstops are usually responsible for a great many things from determining who covers the bag for the double play to who catches pop flies on the infield. Here are some great baseball tips to improve your game at shortstop.

Shortstop Tip Number One

Become a student of the game of baseball. The shortstop usually knows where every player is supposed to be on the field and helps to direct them. If you are not a leader at the shortstop position then you are not maximizing your contribution to the team. Learn all about your teammates and help ensure they are where they are supposed to be on a given play.

Shortstop Tip Number Two

Learn to field the ball cleanly and deliver it quickly. The shortstop is usually the best fielder on a baseball team, so they need to be perfect in their technique. A great shortstop should be able to be an example to the rest of the team. Become a master with the glove and use textbook technique rather than flashy plays.

Shortstop Tip Number Three

Take initiative to make certain who is catching the ball when on pop ups. Pop flies are tough, but the shortstop is usually in a great position to know who has the play on the baseball. Yell out at the top of your lungs to prevent accidents and dropped fly balls on the infield.

Shortstop Tip Number Four

Practice your hand eye coordination drills often. The shortstop has to be able to catch and release quickly around the bag, and it requires deft timing and practice. Turning the double play requires incredible hand eye coordination and teamwork. Spend plenty of time working on this with your second baseman as well.

Shortstop Tip Number Five

Always charge the baseball whenever possible on ground balls. Shortstops sometimes make the mistake of letting the ball come to them rather than charging it. The quicker the ball is in your glove, the better your chances of throwing out the baserunner and making a play. Charge those ground balls when you can!