Assuming you're just a hitter. It is true that many great hitters who have lost a step on defense get put over at first base but that doesn't mean the position should be taken lightly. Only those who have never played with a great first baseman say the position is overrated. Virtually every play in the infield involves the first baseman in some capacity. Take great pride in your defense. Practice, study, and master the position. Your teammates in the infield will love you!
AP Photo |
Relying on the catcher too much on relays. First of all, good players know where they are on the field at all times. A good first baseman should never have to rely on the catcher to line him up on a relay throw. Many stadiums at the higher levels are too loud on plays like that for the first baseman to hear "Left!" or "Right!" anyway. It's the first baseman's job to get himself lined up properly. Second, a good first baseman doesn't wait to hear for the catcher to yell "Cut, home!" He can see the throw himself and judge if the throw is off-line or if it doesn't have the carry to reach home plate. In those situations, he cuts it regardless of what the catcher says or doesn't say.
Photo by Stuart Cahill |
Tomorrow: 2nd Base
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