When a baseball team is in the field, it must function as a unit to properly defend against the team at bat. When the ball is hit, every player on the defense has an assignment-a place to go, a maneuver to execute.

The fielders, of course, try to anticipate plays in advance and determine what will be done if a runner steals, if a pitch is bunted, if the batter lashes a hit to centerfield, etc. To make adjustments, the fielders consider several things: The kind of hitter at bat, the strength of the pitcher in relation to the hitter, the type of pitch to be used and the general strategic situation, such as the score and inning.

Take a look at some of the simpler aspects of Team Defense.

The Hitter: If the batter hits consistently to left, the infield and outfield should move a step or two toward left field. If the hitter is short and light of build, he probably hasn’t much power. Bring the outfielders in two steps, the infielders in one step.

The Pitcher: Does the pitcher overpower most of the hitters? If so, the defense should move a step or two to right for right hand batters, a step or two to left for left hand batters. This move is made on the assumption that the hitters will be a little late with their swing against a strong pitcher. If the pitcher has average speed, but throws a lot of curve balls, the outfield should move up and toward left field a step or two. A hitter has to supply much of his own power when hitting the curve. He also will bring the bat around quicker.

The Situation: With a runner on 1st, none out and the score even, or the batting team ahead, the defense must be prepared for the Sacrifice Bunt. Specifically, the outfielders should be ready to back up the bases; the shortstop should be ready to go to 2nd, and the second baseman to 1st. The pitcher, catcher and the third and first basemen should get set to rush in on the bunt. The diagrams on pages 90-99 show the defensive positions that are taken to offset certain plays by the offense. Here is a word description of what occurs in each situation. Baseball Training - Read More.