How to Catch a Pop Fly

Baseball guru Ron Polk has said that "the most neglected area of coaching is working with outfielders in refining their skills." To catch a fly ball, players must use proper fundamentals that allow them to get the most out of their ability. Learn the basics of outfield play by reading the steps below.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Get into an athletic "ready" position. The best position is one where you can move quickly and efficiently in any direction. Spread your feet at shoulders' width apart with the knees bent. Keep the upper body loose by bending at the waist with your hands on your knees or dangling at your sides.

2. Move with the pitch. As the pitcher releases the baseball, rock forward on the balls of your feet. This prevents you from being flat-footed and allows for a quicker jump on the ball.

3. Hold your ground until you know where the baseball is going. A false step will seriously jeopardize your chance of catching any fly ball. Therefore, once the baseball is hit, wait a spilt second to see where it is headed before moving towards the ball.

4. Catch routine fly balls above the eyes with two hands (unless the nature of the play makes it difficult) keeping your arms away from the body. Make sure your hands are relaxed.

5. Use the crossover step on balls hit to your right or left. Balls hit to your left will require a crossover step with the right foot while pivoting and driving off your left leg. Reverse the process on balls hit to the right.

6. Pivot on baseballs hit over your head. Pivot with both feet in the direction of the turn you will be making. Next, drop back with the foot nearest to the direction of the ball. (On balls hit directly over your head turn glove side.) Keep the body low and gradually raise yourself up as you accelerate towards the baseball.

7. Stay low on shoestring catches. When a fly is hit in front of you, lower your body and reach forward with your glove keeping your eyes in line with the baseball. Be prepared to keep the ball in front of you by knocking it down with your glove or body.

8. Perfect your skills during team batting practice. Catching live BP is the most effective way to improve your skills. Visualize real game situations as you read the ball coming off the bat and learn how to get the best jump.

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[bri719]

on 5/8/2008 great tips thanks!