How to Play Left Field in Baseball

In the Major Leagues, left field is usually a position occupied by a player who can "hit for power." These are the home run hitters, the "long ball bombers" of baseball. At lower levels, this is also often the case, but even a power hitter needs other skills, and left field is often an active spot on the field because it's where right-handed hitters pull the ball.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Baseball
• Glove
• Bat
• Whiffle ball

1. Play catch until you can catch and throw a baseball with great skill.

2. Develop your skills fielding fly balls. Practice can be in the form of games like “500,” or simple drills. When a baseball field is not available, a rubber ball can be used to avoid accidents such as broken windows.

3. Play “long toss” to develop arm strength. Start playing catch at a short distance and take steps back to progress into long toss.

4. Learn to “run to a spot” to catch a fly ball. This is the ability to estimate where a baseball will fall from its initial flight off a bat. This is a skill that allows an outfielder to run without constantly looking for the ball.

5. Work on your hitting skills. Use sessions at batting cages and in your backyard with whiffle balls and soft pitch. These all improve the hand eye coordination necessary to be a good hitter.
   
   

6. Work on your hitting strength. Since a left fielder is often the “power” of the lineup, the ability to hit for power can be a great asset. These efforts may include weightlifting and sessions with a hitting instructor.

7. Find a role model for left field play. This may be a knowledgeable coach or an older player.

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