Skills

Batting – The winning team is the team that scores the most runs. For the team to do this each player needs to be a competent batter. For the grip choose a bat that is comfortable and light enough for you to control easily. Hold the bat with your lower hand just up from the base of the bat. This is the hand closest to the pitcher. The other hand should be touching against the lower hand also gripped around the bat handle. This is the standard grip.

How and where you stand will affect how you hit the ball. Stand sideways to the pitcher. Extend your arm so that you are able to touch the furthest corner of the home plate with your outstretched bat. This is the correct position for you. The correct position will be different for each batter. It will depend on the batter’s height and the length of the batter’s arms, as well as the length of the bat. Stand with your feet shoulder width apart, bend you knees slightly, and hold you bat at about shoulder height. Keep your head still. This is the ready position while waiting for the pitch. You should be relaxed and comfortable.

A correct swinging action will increase your chances of striking the ball. Decide early if the ball is going to be in the strike zone. Once you have hit the ball, run hard to first base

Bunting – A bunt is a ball that is tapped slowly into the infield by the batter. Batters will usually stand in the standard ready position, then quickly change their grip and turn their body to face the pitcher. If the batter can do all of this as the pitcher pitches the ball, the bunt will surprise the fielders. Bunting the ball often allows bas-runners to gain bases. With the practice you will be able to bunt the ball in different directions. You need to turn your bat in the direction you want the ball to go.

Throwing – Whenever you are fielding you need to get the ball away quickly and accurately. Be aware of the play so you know where to throw the ball

Ground balls – When the ball is traveling along the ground it is called a ground ball. To field a ground ball you need to bend low and catch the ball with your glove close to the ground.

Fly balls – Fly balls are balls that travel through the air. You should aim to catch the ball before it bounces. Move quickly to where you think the ball will land. Run sideways rather then backwards, and keep watching the ball. Your hands should be above your head, your glove wide open and facing the ball. Your fingers should point skyward.

Fielding backhand – Whenever the ball is hit to your non-glove side you will need to field backhand. Move across to the ball and stop it with your glove.

To catch a fly ball on the backhand side move across to where you think the ball will land. Your hands should be over your head rather than being low to the ground.