Basic Positioning

• Center fielder should start almost in a straight line through second base to the plate. Give yourself a step or two to either side to get a clear view of the plate.

• Corner outfielders should not over play the lines. Line up in between the middle infielder and the corner infielder so you have a clear view of the plate.

• Adjust your depth to the size of the field. The deeper the fence, the deeper you should play. The smaller the field, the shallower you can play.

• Adjust based on the wind and how the ball is carrying that day.

• Adjust based on the pitcher. Shade to opposite field side for slower throwing pitchers. Shade to the pull side for harder throwing pitchers.

• Adjust based on the hitter. Generally, the middle of the order will hit for the most power and the bottom of the order will be the weaker hitters. Pay attention to if a hitter is consistently late or consistently early and shift accordingly.

• Adjust based on the situation. For example, if the winning run is on third base with less than 2 outs, you will need to play shallower to give yourself a chance to throw him out at the plate if he tags on a fly ball.

• Outfielders must communicate and move as a group when adjusting their positioning. 

Pre-Pitch Footwork

• The biggest key to being a good outfielder is reading the ball of the bat and getting a good jump. We must be ready every pitch.

• Just like an infielder, we are going to take an entry step and separate our feet with a small hop when the pitcher arm begins moving forward. 

• Stand up taller than an infielder so you can cover more ground.

• Stay locked in every single pitch.