How To Play Second Base In Baseball: Master The Skills

What is the primary role of a second baseman? A second baseman is a vital defensive player responsible for covering the area between first and second base, backing up throws to first, and often being involved in double play turns. They need quick reflexes, excellent fielding ground balls abilities, and accurate throws. This guide will delve into the essential skills and strategies to excel at this crucial position.

Grasping the Fundamentals of Second Base

Playing second base is about anticipation, agility, and communication. It’s a position that demands constant readiness, as balls can be hit in many directions. Your primary objective is to field ground balls cleanly, make accurate throws, and be a strong link in the defensive chain.

Essential Equipment

Before you can master the skills, you need the right gear.

Baseball Glove: A second baseman’s glove is typically smaller than an outfielder’s, usually between 10.5 to 11.75 inches. This allows for a quicker transfer of the ball from glove to hand. Baseball glove techniques are paramount for smooth fielding. The pocket should be shallow to facilitate a swift release.
Cleats: Proper footwear provides traction and stability for quick movements and changes in direction.
Infielders’ Training: Regular practice with infield drills is non-negotiable for improvement.

Fielding Ground Balls: The Core Skill

The ability to field ground balls cleanly is the bedrock of playing second base. This involves proper defensive footwork, a good glove angle, and secure hands.

Stance and Approach

Ready Stance: Keep your feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, and back relatively straight. Your weight should be on the balls of your feet, allowing you to move in any direction quickly.
Ball Anticipation: Watch the pitcher’s release and anticipate the trajectory of the ball.
Getting to the Ball: Move to the ball with your glove out in front of you. Don’t wait for the ball to come to you.

Glove Work

“Alligator Mouth” Technique: When fielding a ground ball, aim to create a “basket” with your glove and the heel of your throwing hand. This allows you to trap the ball securely, preventing it from popping out.
Eyes on the Ball: Keep your eyes focused on the ball all the way into your glove.

Positional Adjustments

Your infield positioning will change depending on the batter, the pitcher, and the game situation.

Against Right-Handed Hitters: You’ll typically play slightly towards the first base side of second base.
Against Left-Handed Hitters: You might shift a bit more towards the shortstop side, anticipating balls hit to that area.
On the Pitcher: When the pitcher is on the mound, you’ll position yourself closer to the base to be ready for bunt situations or softly hit balls.

Throwing Accuracy and Power

Once you’ve fielded the ball, making an accurate and strong throw is crucial. Second basemen are often involved in turning double plays, so a quick and precise throw is vital.

Throwing Mechanics

Grip: Use a four-seam grip for maximum velocity and accuracy.
Arm Action: Bring the ball back with a smooth, overhand motion. Keep your elbow high and your throwing arm strong.
Footwork: Step towards your target with your opposite foot (e.g., if throwing to first, step with your left foot).
Follow Through: Continue your arm motion after releasing the ball, pointing towards your target.

Throwing to First Base

Pivot: For balls hit to your right, you’ll need to pivot quickly on your left foot before throwing to first base.
Crow Hop: A crow hop can add significant power and distance to your throws.

Throwing to Second Base (for Double Plays)

When turning a double play, your throw to the shortstop or second baseman covering second base needs to be crisp and accurate. Aim for the chest or the glove of the receiving infielder.

Double Play Turns: A Signature Skill

Mastering double play turns is a defining characteristic of an excellent second baseman. It requires coordination, timing, and excellent communication with the shortstop.

Basic Double Play (2-3)

Fielding the Ball: Field the ground ball to your right or in front of you.
Pivot: Take a strong step with your non-throwing foot (left foot), pivot your body around, and get your throwing foot to the ground.
Throw: Make a strong, accurate throw to first base, often while the ball is still in your glove or with a quick transfer.

Turning the Double Play (4-6-3 or 6-4-3)

This is the most common double play scenario involving a second baseman.

Shortstop Fields: The shortstop fields the ground ball.
Receive the Throw: As the shortstop approaches, move towards second base to receive their throw. Position yourself to catch the ball with momentum towards first base.
Pop Up and Transfer: Once you catch the ball, pop up quickly and transfer the ball to your throwing hand.
Throw to First: Make a strong, accurate throw to first base, aiming for the first baseman to catch it in stride.
Footwork: Your footwork is critical. You want to receive the ball and be able to get your body in a throwing position without losing momentum.

Variations and Advanced Turns

Backhand Flip: For ground balls hit very close to the shortstop, a quick backhand flip from the shortstop to the second baseman can be faster than a throw.
Tagging a Runner: If there is a runner on first and a ground ball is hit to the shortstop, the second baseman might move towards second base to receive the throw and tag the runner before throwing to first.
Infield Communication: Constant infield communication is vital. Call for the ball, alert your middle infield partner to incoming runners, and coordinate double play efforts.

Base Running Strategy and Second Basemen

While primarily a defensive position, a second baseman’s awareness of base running strategy can impact the game.

Advancing on a Fly Ball: If a fly ball is hit to the outfield, a runner on second base should be ready to advance to third if the ball is dropped or not caught cleanly.
Taking Extra Bases: On singles, a good second baseman can read the outfielder’s arm and try to advance to second base or even third on a shallow hit.
Awareness of Outs: Always know how many outs there are. This dictates how aggressively you can run the bases.

The Cutoff Man Role

Second basemen often serve as the cutoff man on throws from the outfield. This is a crucial defensive responsibility that prevents extra bases for the offense.

Positioning as a Cutoff Man

Location: The cutoff man positions themselves in a direct line between the outfielder and the intended base. This breaks up the throw into manageable segments.
Communication: Clearly communicate with the outfielder about whether to throw through to the base or to the cutoff man.

Executing the Cutoff

Receive the Ball: Catch the ball cleanly and with momentum.
See the Play: Have a clear view of the runner and the intended target.
Make the Throw: Make an accurate throw to the base or to another cutoff man if necessary.

Infield Communication: The Glue That Holds Defense Together

Effective infield communication is paramount for success at any infield position, and especially for the middle infielders.

Calling for the Ball

Loud and Clear: When a ball is hit into the gap between you and the shortstop, or when you are covering second base, you must loudly and clearly call for the ball.
Specificity: Instead of just “Mine!”, try “Shortstop’s ball!” or “I got it!”

Coordinating Double Plays

Pre-Play Communication: Before the pitch, discuss with your shortstop how you will handle a potential double play.
During the Play: Communicate who has the ball, where the throw is going, and any potential runner interference.

Situational Awareness

Bunts: Communicate with the pitcher and catcher on how to handle bunts.
Pop-ups: Determine who will take the pop-up and ensure no collisions occur.

Baseball Glove Techniques for Second Basemen

Mastering your baseball glove techniques can significantly improve your fielding efficiency.

Glove Angle: For ground balls, angle your glove slightly open so the ball rolls into it.
Soft Hands: Don’t fight the ball. Absorb the impact with soft hands, allowing the ball to settle into your glove.
Quick Transfer: The ability to get the ball from your glove to your throwing hand quickly is essential for making plays, especially on double plays. Practice transferring the ball from your glove to your throwing hand as fast as possible.

Defensive Footwork: The Foundation of Agility

Solid defensive footwork enables you to get into the best position to field the ball and make a strong throw.

Moving to the Ball

Shuffle Step: Use a shuffle step to maintain balance while moving laterally.
First Step: Your first step should be quick and decisive, either forward, backward, or to the side.
Glove Side Movement: When moving to your right (towards first base), keep your glove on the throwing side to shield the ball. When moving to your left, keep your glove out in front.

Getting into Throwing Position

Against the Play: Field the ball in a way that allows you to get your body squared up to your target for the throw.
Pivot: For balls hit to your right, a smooth pivot is key.

Practicing and Improving Your Skills

Consistent practice is the key to mastering any skill in baseball. Infield drills are your best friend.

Drills to Practice

Ground Ball Fielding:
- Pepper: A classic drill for improving hand-eye coordination and quick transfers.
- Stationary Ground Balls: Have a partner hit ground balls directly at you in your ready stance.
- Moving Ground Balls: Practice fielding ground balls hit to your forehand, backhand, and straight on.
Double Play Turns:
- Shortstop-to-Second-to-First: Practice the 6-4-3 double play repeatedly.
- First-to-Second-to-First: Practice the 3-6-3 double play.
Throwing Accuracy:
- Short Toss: Focus on accuracy and quick release.
- Long Toss: Build arm strength and improve throwing distance.
- Target Practice: Throw to specific targets at various distances.
Agility and Footwork:
- Ladder Drills: Improve foot speed and coordination.
- Cone Drills: Practice quick changes of direction.

Table: Common Infield Drills and Their Focus

Drill Name	Primary Focus	Key Benefits
Pepper	Hand-eye coordination, Quick transfer	Better glove control, Faster releases
Fielding Ground Balls	Glove work, Footwork, Body control	Clean fielding, Secure catches
Double Play Drills	Footwork, Transfer, Throwing accuracy	Efficient turns, Accurate throws
Throwing Accuracy Toss	Arm strength, Precision, Arm action	Stronger, more accurate throws
Agility Ladder Drills	Foot speed, Coordination, Balance	Quicker lateral movement, Better agility

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the best glove size for a second baseman?
A: The ideal glove size for a second baseman is typically between 10.5 and 11.75 inches. The smaller size allows for quicker transfers of the ball from glove to hand.

Q: How important is communication for a second baseman?
A: Communication is incredibly important. You need to coordinate with your shortstop for double plays, call for balls hit into the gap, and alert your teammates to any potential plays.

Q: Can I play second base if I’m not very fast?
A: While speed is an advantage, excellent defensive footwork, anticipation, and fielding ground balls technique can compensate for a lack of elite speed.

Q: What are the most important skills for a second baseman?
A: The most important skills include fielding ground balls, accurate throwing, double play turns, infield communication, and strong defensive footwork.

Q: How can I improve my double play turns?
A: Consistent practice of infield drills specifically focused on double play mechanics, including pivots and accurate throws, is essential. Working with your middle infield partner is also key.