Ready Position

One of the first instructions Little League fielders hear repeated over and over is, "Get Ready!" Players in the field are always being reminded by coaches and parents to assume a proper Ready Position. The reason for this is that the ready position is the most important first step to good defensive play. The quickest way for a young player to improve his defensive play is to develop the habit of being in a ready position on every pitch.

The Set Position

Being ready is the preparation that a fielder does before the ball is hit to him. Prior to each pitch, the fielder must prepare his mind and his body to anticipate the play that will develop. When a fielder is properly prepared, he is ready to make the correct play on any ball that is hit. This readiness requires two distinct movements or actions. As the fielder awaits the pitch he moves into the first set position, and then just as the pitch is being thrown he moves into the second ready position.

The set position is the same for infielders and outfielders. Begin by spreading your feet more than shoulder's width apart. By doing so, you will have a balanced and comfortable base of support. Next, turn your toes out slightly, and then drop your throwing-side foot a little further back than your glove-hand foot. Spreading your feet like this will make it easier for you to go right or left, and to break for balls that are hit to your bare-hand side. Bend your knees comfortably. Rest your hands on your knees with your head up and your back straight. Your heels should be lightly on the ground with your weight distributed a little forward on the balls of your feet.

Once you are in the set position, activate your baseball brain and concentrate on developing your fielding mind set. Survey the field and observe the batter and any runners that are on base. How many outs are there? What play or plays are most likely to develop? Notice the distance between you and the other fielders. Are you positioned properly, or should you move and set up in a different location? If the ball is hit at you, to the right, left, or past you, what is your assignment? What throws will be made, and where are your back up positions? Finally, say to yourself: "Hit the ball to me! I'm ready. Hit it to me!" Because you are now prepared and know what to do when the ball comes, you want the batter to hit it to you.

Third Baseman in Ready Position

Now that you want the ball, watch for your pitcher to begin his delivery. Just before the pitcher releases the ball to the plate, move into your ready position. The adjustment from the set position is slight, but significant. Infielders, bend more at the knees, and lower your body's center of gravity. Move your hands from your knees to your waist level or below. If you want, you may place your throwing hand into your open glove. Keep your butt down, back straight, head up, and shift your weight a little more forward.

Your eyes should be focused intently on the strike zone. Be sure to avoid the mistake of trying to follow the ball from the pitcher's hand to the batter. Watch the hitter's strike zone only! That is the place where the ball will be struck and hit toward you.

CF Ready Position

If you are playing the outfield, you too have some thinking to do. The set and ready positions are as important for you as for your teammates in the infield. Before the pitch is delivered, preplan your personal fielding strategy. Be alert for any instructions that are provided from your coaches in the dugout. Think over the game situation, and direct your concentration to create your fielder's mind set. As the pitcher winds to throw the pitch, take a short, quick step forward with both feet and assume your ready position. Your knees and lower body will be bent less than the infielders. Your back is straight, head up, and your eyes are fixed on the batter.

Outfield Ready Position

By watching the batter, you will see how he strides and the type of swing he takes. It is important for outfielders to watch the hitter's bat as it comes through the strike zone. The bat angle and the location of the pitch will help you judge the flight of the ball. This will help you in your initial break toward the ball. Just like your infield teammates, in your ready position you are prepared to explode your muscles forward, backward, up, down, right, or left, depending on where the ball is hit.

Always stay mentally and physically prepared to make the next play. Eliminate daydreaming and wandering attention. Baseball is an exciting game of strategy, and it is never boring. A player who complains that he is bored is a player who has ceased to think about the game. Keep your mind in the game. Think ahead, and be alert! With this type of concentration, you will be ready to make all the necessary plays at your position.