: Strategies: Defense

Backups
Since not all your players will be perfect with their throws, you will need to teach your players to make strategic backups on throws to bases. Teach your players a simple rule: If they are not involved in the play, they should be! Even if the ball doesn’t come to them, they should be in a position to field the ball on overthrows or missed catches. Here are some basic backup strategies listed by base:

First Base: All throws to first base should be backed up by the catcher on infield hits or outfield flys. The right fielder is responsible for all throws coming from the catcher. If the 1^st baseman is responsible for fielding the ball, the pitcher should back up or cover first base.

Second Base: The shortstop and 2^nd baseman are equally responsible for covering second base, and they are equally responsible for backing each other up. For throws from the catcher, the shortstop should backup on the throw. The center fielder should also move up as the throw is made. The shortstop will generally cover the base on throws from first and the 2^nd baseman will cover on throws from 3^rd and short.

Third Base: Throws to third will from the infield or outfield will be backed up by the catcher. Throws from the catcher will be backed up the left fielder. Should the play be at 3^rd and the 3^rd baseman fields the ball, the pitcher or shortstop will be responsible for covering the base.

Home Plate: All throws to home will be backed up by the pitcher, and if the catcher has to field the ball, the pitcher is responsible for covering the base.

Note: Thanks to Dennis for setting me straight on the second base thing. It would be kind of hard for the shotstop to cover first wouldn't it!