PREPARATION - Play The Game Before The Ball Is Pitched

Runners are on first and second base with one out. A slow ground ball is hit to third base. The third baseman charges, fields on the move, and fires a strike to first base for the out.

How did he know to throw to first base? Because he reviewed this play before the ball was hit.

Coaches advise defensive players to relax in the field. It's when players perform at their very best. In order to relax, however, you've got to know what you're going to do with the ball before it is hit. To accomplish this, review the scenarios in your mind before the pitch is thrown. This will not only improve your execution, but your ability to anticipate on the field.

Every fielder should undertake this practice whether you're playing first base, pitcher or right field. There are a few general points to consider first before addressing specific details.

1. What is the score? Are you winning or losing and by how much?

2. What inning is it?

3. How many outs?

These points will determine whether you're conservative in the field (get the out), or aggressive (get the lead runner). From there, a number of elements come into play. How fast is the runner at bat? How fast are the runners on base? How fast am I? Do I have a strong arm or below average arm strength? What are the field conditions? What will the other positions on the field do if the ball is hit to them? There is no shortage of information to review.

On balls hit to you with runners on base, what you do with with the ball can depend on how and precisely where it is hit. Balls hit to your right, left or directly at you can influence where the play is made. Also, the pace of the hit can determine the play.

Don't be self-absorbed when reviewing potential plays. Think about what you should or can do when a ball is hit to another teammate. Covering bases, backing up bases, or setting up at a base for a follow-up play after the initial play is made can be critical. Anticipate where the throw is going and how you can be involved. This is especially important in the outfield. With a runner on first and a ground ball to the first baseman, for example, the throw is going to second base for the force. If you're playing left field, back up the throw to second base. This throw is tough to execute and sometimes ends up in left-center field. If you anticipate the bad throw, the runner will be unable to advance. If you're spectating, he'll take third easily.

The checklist of scenarios may seem endless, but the more you do it, the easier it becomes. You'll develop your instinct. This is also why it's helpful to play different positions. The more positions you learn, the better you'll understand the game.