Outfielder facts for kids

Austin Kearns, an outfielder, catches a fly ball during a game.

Ty Cobb played more games as an outfielder in Major League Baseball than anyone else, with 2,934 games.

An outfielder is a player in baseball or softball. They play in one of the three defensive spots farthest from the batter. These players are the left fielder, the center fielder, and the right fielder.

An outfielder's main job is to catch balls hit high in the air (called fly balls). They also field balls hit on the ground (ground balls). After catching or fielding the ball, they throw it back to the infield. This helps get a player out or stops runners from moving to the next base. Outfielders usually play behind the six players who are closer to home plate.

In baseball, each of the nine defensive positions has a number. The outfield positions are:

• 7 for the left fielder
• 8 for the center fielder
• 9 for the right fielder

These numbers help people keep score during a game. They are different from the numbers players wear on their uniforms.

Many famous outfielders have played in Major League Baseball. Some of the greatest include Hank Aaron, Ty Cobb, Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, Stan Musial, Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, and Ken Griffey Jr.

Outfield Strategy: How Players Work Together

Outfielders can be seen as either corner outfielders or a center fielder. Corner outfielders play in left or right field. They might not be as fast as the center fielder. But they are still very important for the team's defense.

Understanding Corner Outfielders

Corner outfielders play in right field and left field. They often have less speed than center fielders. However, they are usually strong hitters.

There are some key differences between left and right fielders:

• Left fielders often handle more balls. This is because right-handed batters tend to hit balls towards left field.
• Right fielders usually have the strongest throwing arms. This helps them make long throws to third base.
• Right fielders might not be as fast or agile as left fielders.

Some left fielders are very fast, like Rickey Henderson. Others, like Carl Furillo, were known for their strong throwing arms in right field. Sometimes, a player might start by playing both corner positions. Then they settle into the one that fits them best.

The Role of the Center Fielder

The center fielder is usually the fastest and most athletic of the three outfielders. They need to run the farthest to catch balls hit into the gaps between outfielders. They also back up the other outfielders when balls are hit near them.

Center field is often seen as the hardest outfield position. It needs both a good throwing arm and great speed. Many center fielders are also good base-runners. They often bat first in the team's lineup.

Outfielders need to be able to guess where the ball will go. They can sometimes tell by watching the middle infielders (second base and shortstop). These players might show signals to know what pitch the catcher is calling. This helps outfielders get ready for where the ball might be hit.

Many of the best power hitters in baseball play in the outfield. They don't have to be involved in every play as much as other positions. For example, Babe Ruth started as a pitcher. But he became famous after moving to the outfield.

Backup Outfielders

Players who don't start every game are called fourth outfielders or fifth outfielders. They often come into the game to hit or play defense. These players can usually play any of the three outfield positions.

See also

In Spanish: Jardinero (béisbol) para niños