Outfielder
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Outfielder is a generic term applied to the people playing in the three positions in baseball farthest from the batter. These three positions are left fielder, center fielder, and right fielder. Outfielders are primarily engaged in attempting to catch long fly balls and making plays on balls that get through the infield. Outfielders play behind the six other members of the defense, nearest to the outfield wall of the baseball park. Each position on a baseball field corresponds with a number and outfielders are represented by 7 (left field), 8 (center field) and 9 (right field). These numbers are used for scoring purposes and are not the same as a squad number.
[edit] Strategy
Players can be characterized as either corner outfielders or a center fielder. Corner outfielders are often slower and have less defensive value than the center fielder. However, there are some important differences between right fielders and left fielders. Right fielders tend to have the best throwing arms of the outfield so they can make the long throw to third base, but often are not as fast as left fielders. Center fielders are generally the fastest and most athletic of the three because they have to run the farthest in order to field balls in the gaps and back up the other outfielders when balls are hit to them
Many of the best power hitters in baseball play in the outfield, where they do not have as constant involvement in fielding plays as other positions, especially before the institution of the designated hitter. For example, Babe Ruth was moved from pitcher to the outfield. Left fielders and right fielders are more often slow power hitters, and center fielders are usually fast base-runners and good defensive players. Center field is often considered the most difficult outfield position, requiring both a good throwing arm and speed. Center fielders on many teams often bat leadoff.
Players who do not routinely start games, but often substitute as a pinch hitter or defensive replacement in the outfield are referred to as fourth outfielders or even fifth outfielders. These players can usually play any of the three outfield positions.
| Baseball positions | |||
|---|---|---|---|
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| Outfielders: | Left field | Center field | Right field | ||
| Infielders: | 3rd base | Shortstop | 2nd base | 1st base | ||
| Battery: | Pitcher | Catcher | ||
| Other: | Designated hitter | ||
