✅ Pre-Pitch Checklist

• Check the situation – outs, runners, hitter tendencies.

• Signal the defense – communicate positioning and coverages.

• Ready position – athletic stance, glove low, on the balls of your feet.

• Know your coverage – Are you covering 2B on a steal? Double play depth or standard?

🧤 Fielding Fundamentals

• Move through the ball – create momentum toward your target.

• Backhand and forehand skills – practice both regularly.

• Quick transfer & strong throw – footwork is everything.

• Throwing on the run – be smooth and accurate under pressure.

🔄 Communication & Leadership

• Call for pop flies – loudly and early: “I got it!”

• Command the infield – talk on every play: “Two bags!” “Go one!” “Cut four!”

• Cover bases – second on steals, third on bunts, and double plays.

🧠 Situational Responsibilities

🟤 On a Bunt

• Cover third base if the 3B charges.

• Communicate with pitcher and 2B on who’s covering what.

• Be ready to take a throw if there’s a force at second.

🔵 Ball Hit to Right Side (1B or 2B)

• Cover second base for a potential double play.

• On a slow roller or bobbled ball, be ready for the pivot throw.

🟢 Ball Hit to Left Side (You or 3B)

• Field it clean and make the throw to first.

• On a hard-hit ball to 3B, cover second for the double play.

🟡 Ball Hit to Left Field

• Drift out as cutoff for second or third base depending on where it’s hit.

• Direct traffic—relay, cutoff, or hold?

🟠 Ball Hit to Center Field

• Typically the cutoff to second or third, depending on runner and location.

• Be ready to relay quickly and read the baserunner’s movement.

🔴 Ball Hit to Right Field

• Usually not the cutoff, but may need to back up second.

• If ball skips past RF, trail the play for potential relay.

⚾ On Double Plays

• Work on quick footwork around the bag.

• Receive from 2B, 3B, or pitcher—know your angles.

• Throw with intent—it doesn’t have to be hard, just on time and accurate.

🧠 Baseball IQ Boost

• Read the hitter’s stance—pull or opposite field?

• Adjust depth based on pitcher’s velocity and situation.

• Constantly talk to 2B about coverage and shifts.

🏆 Coach T’s Quick Tips:

• Be the most vocal player on the field.

• Anticipate every pitch like it’s coming to you.

• Mental toughness = short memory. One mistake? Shake it off.

📝 TL;DR

The shortstop is the heartbeat of the infield. Stay vocal, stay ready, and know what to do before the ball is even pitched. Great shortstops make the team smoother, smarter, and stronger.