P:
Pitcher
(Position "number" 1). While the primary role of a pitcher
is to pitch the ball, he must also be able to field his
position. This consists of fielding ground balls and bunts
up the middle of the diamond, and running to cover first
base on any batted ball that pulls the first baseman out
of position.
C:
Catcher (2). He must catch, or at least block, all the pitches
to prevent baserunners from advancing, in addition to preventing
stolen bases with a strong throwing arm. He must also catch
pop-ups into the foul territory behind the baseline, and
tag out runners who are attempting to score, while blocking
their access to home plate.
1B:
First Base (3). The first baseman's job, in addition to
fielding balls hit in his direction, is primarily to catch
throws from the other infielders (2B, 3B and SS) in order
to retire the batter and prevent him from getting on base.
When a runner is on first base, the first baseman will tend
to stand on or near the bag, holding the runner close to
prevent the runner from stealing second base.
2B:
Second Base (4). Second basemen have an important defensive
role to field ground balls hit toward him and, if necessary
start a double play. When the ball is hit to the shortstop,
the second baseman will help "turn" a double play by stepping
on second base, fielding the throw from SS, and throwing
to first base, to retire both the batter, and the runner
on first.
3B:
Third
Base (5). Third base is known as "The Hot Corner", since
most right-handed hitters will tend to hit the ball hard
in this direction. The third baseman must be able to field
ground balls and throw strongly to first base, as well as
cover fly balls in fair and foul territory.
SS:
Short
Stop (6). Shortstops, like the second baseman, must
field ground balls and start or turn double plays. In addition,
they need a stronger arm as the throw to first base is further
from the shortstop side.
LF:
Left Field (7), R & L CF: Right & Left
Center Field (8), RF: Right Field (9).
The role of the outfielders is to chase down and catch any
ball hit into the outfield and, if necessary, make a rapid
and accurate return throw, either to a base or to the "cut-off
man", a infielder who has moved into a position specifically
to make a relay throw.
