For bunts that are rolling, keep your head down and scoop up the ball with both hands. Only use your bare hand if the ball is stopped or if the play dictates it. You also want to get your feet positioned to setup the throw as best you can before you field the ball. The most difficult play is for a right handed pitcher is the throw to third and the most difficult play for a left handed pitcher is the throw to first. For these plays, get around the ball as much as you can and catch the ball on the glove side of your body. Look the ball all the way into your glove, then stay low as you pivot the rest of the way around to get your feet in line to make the throw. Stay under control and do not over throw.

The only acceptable time to be in the middle of the field is when you are backing up a throw to second base from the outfield. Do not get caught watching the play. Sprint hard to where you need to be.

When backing up a throw to third or to the plate, get in position well behind the play. You want to be back near the fence and in line with the throw. The further behind the base you get, the more time you will have to react to a bad throw. If you are up too close to the base, you will not have enough time to react, and a bad throw will likely get past you.

For a ball in the gap with runners on, if you are not sure whether the play will be to third base or home plate, start in between and then go where you need to be as the play develops.

Immediately move to cover first base on all groundballs hit to the right side. Get to the baseline early (around the start of the cutout and in line with the front of the coach’s box). Stay in fair territory and chop your feet as needed to get yourself under control as you get close to the base. Keep your hands up to give the first baseman a good target, catch the ball, then find the bag. Hit the inside part of the base with your right foot then, if applicable, cut back towards the infield and check on any other baserunners.

When covering for a double play, there is no need to get to the base line first. Take a direct path straight to the bag and anchor up like a first baseman. Do not stretch for the ball until you read the throw.

Field the ball cleanly, then turn to set your feet in line with 2nd base. Shuffle towards 2nd base before you throw to give the middle infielder more time to get to the base but also to clear the rubber if you catch the ball on top of the mound. Take your time and make a good throw to the base. There is no need to be in a hurry.