I normally play catcher put during the summer I blew out a knee. I want to switch to third base. Is there anything I can do to become a better third baseman (drills) and what can i do to improve arm strength (exercises,etc.)
Posts: 3 | Location: Petersburgh,NY | Registered: February 11, 2008
My son (H.S. Sr.) has primarily been a catcher since he was 8. He has also pitched. On all-star teams he sometimes moved to 3B, especially on teams with lots of lefties who didn't play OF. This year his team has pretty good depth at catcher so the coach has him at 3B. The throw is about the same or shorter than the catcher's - if have a decent POP time that should be no problem.
Former Cub Ron Santo once was asked what it took to play 3B. He replied, "A strong arm and a strong chest." Having played catcher prepares you for the shots, short hops, etc., that are similar to blocking balls in the dirt. The key to playing 3B is not letting balls get past you. Just for fun, watch the movie "Major League", especially where Corbin Bernson is taking balls at 3B. Have someone throw or hit you 100 balls a day. Pretend you are a goalie - nothing gets past!
Good luck with the transition.
Posts: 20 | Location: Batavia | Registered: March 16, 2007
thanks for the advice. I've just been named the starting 3rd baseman for my schools varsity team. I'm also the first freshmen to make the team since 1989 and the first to be a starter since 1985.
Posts: 3 | Location: Petersburgh,NY | Registered: February 11, 2008