Hardest baseball positions to play

[Dontworry]

Taking into account durability and skills required to play, I would rank the hardest baseball positions in this order.

C
SS
CF
2B
3B
RF
LF
1B
DH

Give me your list.

[Biggtone23]

SS
C
CF
3B
2B
RF
LF (corner outfielders really depend more on the stadium for me)
1B (but still alot of things going on that people dont realize)
DH

[Astro]

There was a thread like this just a few months ago

[Dontworry]

There was a thread like this just a few months ago

I wasnt here a few months ago...

[Astro]

http://www.baseball-fever.com/showthread.php?t=36768

[Dontworry]

http://www.baseball-fever.com/showthread.php?t=36768

Right, and I became a member in 2006.

[Astro]

Right, and I became a member in 2006.
Good call....

Just sayin theres the thread... not hard to figure out

[sschirmer]

I would rank the top five as follows:

C
C
C
C
C

[Yankee Legend]

Taking into account durability and skills required to play, I would rank the hardest baseball positions in this order.

C
SS
CF
2B
3B
RF
LF
1B
DH

Give me your list.

those look good. I'd put 3B ahead of 2B though.

[WhiteSoxSteve]

C
CF
SS
LF
RF
3B
1B
2B

Pitcher is in there somewhere

[Bluesteve32]

C
CF
SS
LF
RF
3B
1B
2B

Pitcher is in there somewhere

I'd reverse 2B and 1B as one who played both positions, it was easier to play first and first does not require as many throws as 2B.

[Mattingly]

Right, and I became a member in 2006.
It's simply a reference to a thread that was created just a few months ago. No big deal to me. :)

You can also look back a few pages to threads that were created several months ago. Helps to know what we've discussed here.

[RuthMayBond]

C
CF
SS
LF
RF
3B
1B
2B

Pitcher is in there somewhereHow many double plays does a 1B (or 3B) have to make a turning throw on?

[YOUgodofwalks]

Right, and I became a member in 2006.

Wow, 232 posts since January, I don't even have 100 since September 2005, lol. Posting machine Dontworry.

Anyway....

C
SS
CF
3B
2B
RF
LF
1B
DH

[DoubleX]

This is a tough one. I think the most athletically demanding one and probably most crucial one, is SS, but the one I'd least like to play and that is the toughest to play, is C. If that makes any sense?

[trosmok]

Starting Pitcher
Long Reliever
Pinch Hitter
Shortstop
Second Base
Catcher
Centerfield
Third Base
Right Field
First Base
Left Field


*DH is not a position, it's half of one at best:lookitup

[Evangelion]

It's obvious the DH is the most diffcult position to play in baseball! :D

[DodgerBlue8188]

those look good. I'd put 3B ahead of 2B though.

Yea, 3b you got that hot corner. Second base you probably got about 1 sec more time to react.

[DodgerBlue8188]

How many double plays does a 1B (or 3B) have to make a turning throw on?

Well, 3rd base IMO is harder because its the hot corner. Complete distance across the diamond to throw the guy out at first. As far 2nd being harder than 1st well thats a tough one. First base you gotta be able to scoop balls out of the dirt while a runner is coming towards you.

Also, I'm not sure but are there more right handed hitters versus left? It was when I always played. For a right handed hitter to hit a ball towards the second baseman usually means they swung a little late which means the ball wont go as fast as if a right handed hitter smacked one to short stop. Plus, second is a short throw usually.

[RuthMayBond]

Yea, 3b you got that hot corner. Second base you probably got about 1 sec more time to react.No, it's a fraction of a second, and how many balls come to 3B vs. 2B?

[RuthMayBond]

Well, 3rd base IMO is harder because its the hot corner. Complete distance across the diamond to throw the guy out at first. As far 2nd being harder than 1st well thats a tough one. First base you gotta be able to scoop balls out of the dirt while a runner is coming towards you.But why do fielders as they get worse move from 2nd to 1st and not the other way?

[RuthMayBond]

Starting Pitcher
Long Reliever
Pinch Hitter
Shortstop
Second Base
Catcher
Centerfield
Third Base
Right Field
First Base
Left Field


*DH is not a position, it's half of one at best:lookitupOoh ,where to begin :laugh

[DodgerBlue8188]

No, it's a fraction of a second, and how many balls come to 3B vs. 2B?


More balls coming to 2b is even more reason why I think 3b is harder. Not only is it the hot corner but you can go innings without getting any play and then BAM you have a hard hit shot right at you. Being cold for so long then having to make a tough play. 2nd base you have more oportunities which means you will make more errors, but you wont fall asleep waiting for balls to be hit to you.

Thats just my opinion from playing third. I'd go 3-4 innings sometimes without getting any balls hit to me and you dont literally fall asleep but you go a long time without any action. 2nd base between the double plays and regular ground balls you'll usually get action every inning that keeps you on your toes. Biggest factor is you have so much more space to play the hop.
At third you really cant charge a hard hit ball, as you can a little at second (being so much farther back). Thats my opinion, probably baised since I played third. But to me 2nd is easier.

[DodgerBlue8188]

But why do fielders as they get worse move from 2nd to 1st and not the other way?

Physical ability def. I guess thats a good point that you brough up. Most 2nd baseman could probably play 1st, but not the other way around. You cant take Pujols and put him at 2nd, or Mark McGwire. But you could take Roberto Alomar and probably get a decent first baseman from him. I just didnt like first because of the balls in the dirt. I'd rather play 2nd than first.

[RuthMayBond]

More balls coming to 2b is even more reason why I think 3b is harder. Not only is it the hot corner but you can go innings without getting any play and then BAM you have a hard hit shot right at you. Being cold for so long then having to make a tough play. 2nd base you have more oportunities which means you will make more errors, but you stay wont fall asleep waiting for balls to be hit to you.

Thats just my opinion from playing third. I'd go 3-4 innings sometimes without getting any balls hit to me and you dont literally fall asleep but you go a long time without any action. 2nd base between the double plays and regular ground balls you'll usually get action every inning that keeps you on your toes.That would make catchers the easiest (in on almost every pitch), and CF easier than the fewer balls at the corner OF :laugh

[DodgerBlue8188]

That would make catchers the easiest (in on almost every pitch), and CF easier than the fewer balls at the corner OF :laugh


Well why dont we decide on which position is the hardest by the amount of people that could actually play that position. Catcher, not many could. 3rd base, I think less people could play 3rd than 2nd.

[RuthMayBond]

Well why dont we decide on which position is the hardest by the amount of people that could actually play that position. Catcher, not many could. 3rd base, I think less people could play 3rd than 2nd.Where are you getting this? Dick Allen, Harmon Killebrew, Bobby Bonilla played 3rd :laugh

[Tigerfan1974]

C
P
3d/1st tie
SS
2d
CF
R/LF tie

DH

[RuthMayBond]

C
P
3d/1st tie
SS
2d
CF
R/LF tie

DH1st harder defensively than SS? Time for baseball school!

[Tigerfan1974]

1st harder defensively than SS? Time for baseball school!

You have your opinion, I have mine!

[RuthMayBond]

You have your opinion, I have mine!Upon what is your opinion based?

[trosmok]

Ooh ,where to begin :laugh

Instead of pooh-poohing everyone else's for starters, RMB, why not begin with your list? :atthepc Haven't seen your ranking of difficulty, only your opinions on others; some more opinionated than others. It's easy to take shots at others if you are immune from posting your own, isn't it?:rolleyes:

[RuthMayBond]

Instead of pooh-poohing everyone else's for starters, RMB, why not begin with your list? :atthepc Haven't seen your ranking of difficulty, only your opinions on others; some more opinionated than others. It's easy to take shots at others if you are immune from posting your own, isn't it?:rolleyes:
If you're considering a pitcher's defense including the pitches he throws to the plate and that wear and tear on his arm, then
Pitcher would be hardest (if not considering his pitches, then his position would be much easier)
Catcher (squatting, wear and tear)
Shortstop (range needed, and most chances and strong arm)
Center Fielder and Second baseman are pretty close, former has more ground to cover, latter has more chances
Third baseman
Left field and Right field are pretty close, former probably has more chances, latter has a harder throw into third
First baseman

[trosmok]

Well done, RMB.:clapping
SP, easily the most difficult skill to master
Long Relief, coming in when a starter gets shelled early is a bear
PH, sitting getting cold, and then jumping up and getting the job done, tough
SS, range, arm, and quickness, footwork, poise, and most chances
2B, middle infield is the busy spot of the field, only slightly> difficult than SS
C, not as much skill required (see Piazza), but catchers do take a pounding
CF, lots of real estate to cover, but most middle infielders could do this job
3B, hot corner requires lightning reflexes, strong arm, but range is minimized
RF, primarily offensive spot, a cannon arm sure helps here
1B, easy to catch balls that are thrown to you, or close enough to fall on
LF, best place to hide a stiff, or a slow footed, noodle armed slugger

[RuthMayBond]

PH, sitting getting cold, and then jumping up and getting the job done, toughI guess it is hard (even though it's not a position) but nobody expects miracles in one PA

[Edgartohof]

Starting Pitcher
Long Reliever
Pinch Hitter
Shortstop
Second Base
Catcher
Centerfield
Third Base
Right Field
First Base
Left Field


*DH is not a position, it's half of one at best:lookitup

Huh??????????????????

You rank a pinch hitter higher than SS, Catcher, AND DH? At least a DH plays half the game, a pinch hitter, maybe gets what, 1 AB? Are you sure you got that right?

[RuthMayBond]

Huh??????????????????

You rank a pinch hitter higher than SS, Catcher, AND DH? At least a DH plays half the game, a pinch hitter, maybe gets what, 1 AB? Are you sure you got that right?Opinions don't have to be based on anything ;)

[trosmok]

Huh??????????????????

You rank a pinch hitter higher than SS, Catcher, AND DH? At least a DH plays half the game, a pinch hitter, maybe gets what, 1 AB? Are you sure you got that right?

Just my humble opinion, but it is backed by the numerous ballplayers I've had the good fortune to both watch and jaw with. Pitching is easily the most difficult skill to master at the upper levels of baseball. The hardest thing in all of sports is to hit a pitched ball for a very good reason; pitchers must be able to throw it over the plate and make the batter miss, or miss hit it, eg., foul balls, weak dribblers, mile high pop-ups etc. If a pitcher doesn't have his stuff on any given afternoon, he gets lit up like Christmas in Connecticut.

If you review my first post in this thread, you would see I don't consider DH a position, it's half of one at best.

The job of pinch hitting, whether in the role of needing to provide some offense when the pitcher is pulled, or as a late inning defensive replacement that must bat, or for an injured player, or as first a pinch runner for a slow footed teammate, or even on the batting end of a double switch, is the hardest position outside of pitchers. Don't take my word for it though, simply ask any utility non-starter who must recognize he's not playing every day, but must still be prepared to function at his fullest potential when the skipper gives him the order to grab a bat. Then tell me if he says it isn't easier to be a starting position player every game.

[RuthMayBond]

If you review my first post in this thread, you would see I don't consider DH a position, it's half of one at best.A guy who comes in for one PA (PH) is considered a position, but a guy who may have FIVE PA (DH) isn't? :confused:

[Gamingboy]

Catcher, at least as far as the body is concerned.

[Cubsfan97]

starter
closer
catcher
shortstop
CF
1B
2B
3B
LF/RF
DH

[RuthMayBond]

starter
closer
catcher
shortstop
CF
1B
2B
3B
LF/RF
DHI'm just astounded by this (1B > four positions)

[HashPappy]

Looks like an old thread but anyway: hope this does not post twice.
I have come to the conclusion that the difficulty rankings regarding positions should be, extremely difficult, amazingly difficult and impossible difficult. There is no other list this is the only correct list, others are merely imitations but please feel free to make your own list and comment on this list,

1. Catcher- brutal position hardest on the body with foul tips and collisions and being in crouch is terrible on knees and hemorrhoids are a must. Skills do not translate into other positions. On top of this this umpires have notoriously bad breath and you need a good memory as you have to handle cry baby pitchers who shake their heads no at you as if they know better and you must know hitter's tendencies, known as the position to get you to the bigs and a wheelchair the fastest. Think what is was like before throat protection. Pete Rose obviously had a thing for catchers. Added bonus, after being hit in the family jewels so many times, most paternity suits are simply laughed out of court. Most famous quote by Randy Hundley, who is the a%$&le that invented the drop third strike. Funniest catchers ever, Yogi and Ueck.

2. Shortstop- Has to be quick and have great range and good arm is key to infield can always say, well the third or second baseman should have gotten that one. Not many SS hit for power but then who keeps track anyway.

3.Centerfield- Must have tremendous speed and great arm, the General of the outfield, must be bossy and self-centered, say things like, that's mine, I got it, and guess what I heard about the 1st and 3rd base coaches wives.

4. Second Base- Athletic ability is needed to jump out of the way of steel spikes, should have good range a strong arm is a must. Added bonus you always can get a job as a professional contortionist.

5. First Base- Involved in majority of plays and situations, must have great skill level and ability to think of many possibilities in strategy. Most think this as easy position it is not, left handed batters make this the inverted hot corner, catching, leaping and stretching to get poorly thrown balls. Why do players later in their careers shift to this position. Bad joints that’s it, the position has nothing to do with weak skills. Plus you have to hold runners on base more than anyone. You get to tell the opposing first base coach that his wife was great last night is as a small bonus and a short walk to dugout on away games.

6. Pitcher-not and everyday position but must master many pitches and lets face if you throw 90 mph it comes back at you a lot faster, just dang scary, Good memory also needed, hard to scratch privates as you are on camera constantly, that in itself is torture. You have to have good pick off moves left handers are better at first and right handers are better at third(yea that happens a lot) Worst embarrassment you have to stand on a rubber, my goodness. What is in that rosin bag anyway, and spitballs should never be illegal.

7. Right Field-Must have strongest arm has longest throw to make added bonus, ball-girls are closer. Best ever, Clemente.

8. Third Base-Quick reflexes, strong arm should be a power hitter as most are just because it comes with the position. Added bonus you get to tell the third base coach that the first basemen is friendly with the first base coaches wife, you had better because the first baseman is saying the same about you. Plus short walk to dugout on home games.

9. Left Field-Least difficult of outfield positions but no position in the big leagues is easy, worst defensive left fielders ever, Dave Kingman literally through a ball towards home that landed in the toilet just inside the dugout at Wrigley Field and Ted Williams he admitted this he as he only cared about hitting, guy who played center with him must have hated that mindset.

10. Bat boy-Everyone knows you got the job because of nepotism; have to walk on dugout floor with chaw juice, that alone is enough to gag a maggot. Several former bat-boys have committed suicide by hanging, most famous David Carradine, Steve Garvey, no not really.

11. Home plate umpire- Even your own children hate you, ricochets are fun and amusing. Added bonus even when you are wrong you are right, much like many ex wives or so I hear.

12. Ball girls not much to say but romance is always in the air.

[RuthMayBond]

Other than first base and plate ump, you're just about right


Looks like an old thread but anyway: hope this does not post twice.
I have come to the conclusion that the difficulty rankings regarding positions should be, extremely difficult, amazingly difficult and impossible difficult. There is no other list this is the only correct list, others are merely imitations but please feel free to make your own list and comment on this list,

1. Catcher- brutal position hardest on the body with foul tips and collisions and being in crouch is terrible on knees and hemorrhoids are a must. Skills do not translate into other positions. On top of this this umpires have notoriously bad breath and you need a good memory as you have to handle cry baby pitchers who shake their heads no at you as if they know better and you must know hitter's tendencies, known as the position to get you to the bigs and a wheelchair the fastest. Think what is was like before throat protection. Pete Rose obviously had a thing for catchers. Added bonus, after being hit in the family jewels so many times, most paternity suits are simply laughed out of court. Most famous quote by Randy Hundley, who is the a%$&le that invented the drop third strike. Funniest catchers ever, Yogi and Ueck.

2. Shortstop- Has to be quick and have great range and good arm is key to infield can always say, well the third or second baseman should have gotten that one. Not many SS hit for power but then who keeps track anyway.

3.Centerfield- Must have tremendous speed and great arm, the General of the outfield, must be bossy and self-centered, say things like, that's mine, I got it, and guess what I heard about the 1st and 3rd base coaches wives.

4. Second Base- Athletic ability is needed to jump out of the way of steel spikes, should have good range a strong arm is a must. Added bonus you always can get a job as a professional contortionist.

5. First Base- Involved in majority of plays and situations, must have great skill level and ability to think of many possibilities in strategy. Most think this as easy position it is not, left handed batters make this the inverted hot corner, catching, leaping and stretching to get poorly thrown balls. Why do players later in their careers shift to this position. Bad joints that’s it, the position has nothing to do with weak skills. Plus you have to hold runners on base more than anyone. You get to tell the opposing first base coach that his wife was great last night is as a small bonus and a short walk to dugout on away games.

6. Pitcher-not and everyday position but must master many pitches and lets face if you throw 90 mph it comes back at you a lot faster, just dang scary, Good memory also needed, hard to scratch privates as you are on camera constantly, that in itself is torture. You have to have good pick off moves left handers are better at first and right handers are better at third(yea that happens a lot) Worst embarrassment you have to stand on a rubber, my goodness. What is in that rosin bag anyway, and spitballs should never be illegal.

7. Right Field-Must have strongest arm has longest throw to make added bonus, ball-girls are closer. Best ever, Clemente.

8. Third Base-Quick reflexes, strong arm should be a power hitter as most are just because it comes with the position. Added bonus you get to tell the third base coach that the first basemen is friendly with the first base coaches wife, you had better because the first baseman is saying the same about you. Plus short walk to dugout on home games.

9. Left Field-Least difficult of outfield positions but no position in the big leagues is easy, worst defensive left fielders ever, Dave Kingman literally through a ball towards home that landed in the toilet just inside the dugout at Wrigley Field and Ted Williams he admitted this he as he only cared about hitting, guy who played center with him must have hated that mindset.

10. Bat boy-Everyone knows you got the job because of nepotism; have to walk on dugout floor with chaw juice, that alone is enough to gag a maggot. Several former bat-boys have committed suicide by hanging, most famous David Carradine, Steve Garvey, no not really.

11. Home plate umpire- Even your own children hate you, ricochets are fun and amusing. Added bonus even when you are wrong you are right, much like many ex wives or so I hear.

12. Ball girls not much to say but romance is always in the air.

[Blue387]

The New York Times has an article on Russell Martin and the positing of catcher:
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/17/sports/baseball/russell-martin-plays-catcher-the-toughest-position-in-baseball.html?pagewanted=all

[Cyclone]

Starting Pitcher
Catcher
Shortstop
Centerfield
3rd Base
2nd Base
Right Field
Left Field
Relief Pitcher
1st Base
Designated Hitter

[Tyrus4189Cobb]

If first base was as difficult to master as some say, they wouldn't be sticking sluggish power guys there. First is more of a last resort position which is why so many players can be moved there. Some may argue the issue of learning to catch fast throws on a hop, but this is involved in all infield positions because there are errant and relay throws.

Catcher- In command of the game. Requires endurance, ball handling, quick throwing decisions, pitch calling, and infield coordination.

Shortstop- Lots or range needed along with the ability to throw on the run. Must know how to play relays and stolen bases.

Third- Longest infield throws from a shorter distance to home plate. Most barehanded plays of any position.

Center- Most range of all OF positions. Strong arm and speed needed.

Second- Very similar to shortstop with a little less responsibility. Shorter throws.

Right field- mostly concerned with a strong arm

First

Left field- Weaker arms hidden here. I've always found that this position gets the least amount of plays for some reason. Maybe it's just me.

DH

No idea where to throw pitchers in the mix

[Tyrus4189Cobb]

Looks like an old thread but anyway: hope this does not post twice.
I have come to the conclusion that the difficulty rankings regarding positions should be, extremely difficult, amazingly difficult and impossible difficult. There is no other list this is the only correct list, others are merely imitations but please feel free to make your own list and comment on this list,

1. Catcher- brutal position hardest on the body with foul tips and collisions and being in crouch is terrible on knees and hemorrhoids are a must. Skills do not translate into other positions. On top of this this umpires have notoriously bad breath and you need a good memory as you have to handle cry baby pitchers who shake their heads no at you as if they know better and you must know hitter's tendencies, known as the position to get you to the bigs and a wheelchair the fastest. Think what is was like before throat protection. Pete Rose obviously had a thing for catchers. Added bonus, after being hit in the family jewels so many times, most paternity suits are simply laughed out of court. Most famous quote by Randy Hundley, who is the a%$&le that invented the drop third strike. Funniest catchers ever, Yogi and Ueck.

2. Shortstop- Has to be quick and have great range and good arm is key to infield can always say, well the third or second baseman should have gotten that one. Not many SS hit for power but then who keeps track anyway.

3.Centerfield- Must have tremendous speed and great arm, the General of the outfield, must be bossy and self-centered, say things like, that's mine, I got it, and guess what I heard about the 1st and 3rd base coaches wives.

4. Second Base- Athletic ability is needed to jump out of the way of steel spikes, should have good range a strong arm is a must. Added bonus you always can get a job as a professional contortionist.

5. First Base- Involved in majority of plays and situations, must have great skill level and ability to think of many possibilities in strategy. Most think this as easy position it is not, left handed batters make this the inverted hot corner, catching, leaping and stretching to get poorly thrown balls. Why do players later in their careers shift to this position. Bad joints that’s it, the position has nothing to do with weak skills. Plus you have to hold runners on base more than anyone. You get to tell the opposing first base coach that his wife was great last night is as a small bonus and a short walk to dugout on away games.

6. Pitcher-not and everyday position but must master many pitches and lets face if you throw 90 mph it comes back at you a lot faster, just dang scary, Good memory also needed, hard to scratch privates as you are on camera constantly, that in itself is torture. You have to have good pick off moves left handers are better at first and right handers are better at third(yea that happens a lot) Worst embarrassment you have to stand on a rubber, my goodness. What is in that rosin bag anyway, and spitballs should never be illegal.

7. Right Field-Must have strongest arm has longest throw to make added bonus, ball-girls are closer. Best ever, Clemente.

8. Third Base-Quick reflexes, strong arm should be a power hitter as most are just because it comes with the position. Added bonus you get to tell the third base coach that the first basemen is friendly with the first base coaches wife, you had better because the first baseman is saying the same about you. Plus short walk to dugout on home games.

9. Left Field-Least difficult of outfield positions but no position in the big leagues is easy, worst defensive left fielders ever, Dave Kingman literally through a ball towards home that landed in the toilet just inside the dugout at Wrigley Field and Ted Williams he admitted this he as he only cared about hitting, guy who played center with him must have hated that mindset.

10. Bat boy-Everyone knows you got the job because of nepotism; have to walk on dugout floor with chaw juice, that alone is enough to gag a maggot. Several former bat-boys have committed suicide by hanging, most famous David Carradine, Steve Garvey, no not really.

11. Home plate umpire- Even your own children hate you, ricochets are fun and amusing. Added bonus even when you are wrong you are right, much like many ex wives or so I hear.

12. Ball girls not much to say but romance is always in the air.

13. Guy adjacent to me who has the arduous task of giving his two cents for every pitch.

[StanTheMan]

2B has a LOT more time to make his play. Knock it down, boot it but keep it in front of you, etc and you can still throw your guy out at 1st. 3B and SS don't have that same luxury, they must be sharper and field much more cleanly to get the out.

1B is the easiest defensive position on the field at the professional level IMO. A throw to home from LF is more difficult than scooping balls in the dirt at 1B. The sheer number of plays that are made at 1B of the pedestrian variety is the key here, that and they are required to have the smallest amount of range of any player on the field.

How anyone can look at the long line of 1Bmen who could not have played ANY other position on the field... Yet still rank the spot as more difficult than several others is quite mind boggling.

[EnterSandman]

I'd definitely say that catcher is the most arduous position on the field, and that first base is the easiest. You usually want a good defensive catcher and a heavy-hitting 1B. A defensive shortstop and typically a defensive CF are highly-valued, while the corner outfield positions are for sluggers as often as they are for defense.

My rankings:

Catcher

Shortstop
Center Field

Third Base
Second Base

Right Field
Left Field

First Base

[Dude Paskert]

C
SS
2B
CF
3B
RF
LF
1B

This is for the majors...in low amateur leagues, weak players tend to play 2B because the throw is short and you're not expecting them to turn two. In the majors, the 2Bman has GOT to be able to turn two in the face of somebody trying to knock him into the grass. Just look at the positions where major league teams are willing to carry weak hitters...C, SS, and 2B. That's because those are the toughest defensive positions.

[Tenorman]

10. Bat boy-Everyone knows you got the job because of nepotism; have to walk on dugout floor with chaw juice, that alone is enough to gag a maggot. Several former bat-boys have committed suicide by hanging, most famous David Carradine, Steve Garvey, no not really.

Or some former bat boys become starting pitchers and come back and shut out their old team (see Jesse Litsch)... presumably as revenge for the chaw juice. :biggrin2:

[redban]

Catcher
SS
2B
3B
CF
RF
LF
1B

[Rich the Giants fan]

C
ss
cf
3b
2b
rf
lf
1b

[NYYankeesFan92]

1. Catcher
2. Shortstop
3. Center Fielder
4. Pitcher
5. Second Baseman
6. Third Baseman
7. Right Fielder
8. First Baseman
9. Left Fielder

[RuthMayBond]

Starting Pitcher
Catcher
Shortstop
Centerfield
3rd Base
2nd Base
Right Field
Left Field
Relief Pitcher
1st Base
Designated Hitter
a starting pitcher is lucky to have a total of three plays over two games

[Cyclone]

a starting pitcher is lucky to have a total of three plays over two games

If we're talking defensive chances, sure.

[drstrangelove]

This is how I've always seen it, but I admit it's theoretical. If all positions were equally easy / difficult to play, and all players had equal defensive / pitching skills, then 'good' baseball organizations would select the top 25 hitters on the team / farm system and fill out ML rosters with only those players. (Excluding personality and base-running), there would be little reason to select poor hitting players. Obviously this has almost never (if ever) been how it's been done.

So, either a) all positions are not equally difficult or b) all players do not have equal defensive / pitching skills, or some measure of each.

If positions are equally difficult and players do not have the same level of defensive / pitching skills, then the positions that have the most impact on the teams will be the ones where higher skilled players will be placed. These are the positions where lower batting skill will be tolerated more. For example, if you have 2 players and both can pitch or play first base, you'll make your more skilled player the pitcher and the less skilled the first baseman. In these cases, lower batting skill would be an acceptable tradeoff for the higher pitching skill. In this case higher skill = higher skill position.

If positions are not equally difficult, but players have equal defensive / pitching skills, then teams will have no reason to differentiate who plays in each position. "Someone" has to pitch, "Someone" has to play catcher, etc. In this case, there is no reason to have a poor hitting pitcher, poor hitting shortstop, etc. You might as well put a better hitter in that position. This is not what we see, thus again, some positions are more difficult and have a high impact on team success, and require higher skill than others, something that can offset lower batting skill.

In either sense, you can likely construe that the position with the lowest (highest) offensive production is either the most difficult (easiest) to play or requires the most unique (least unigue) skill set. The continuum then is pitcher to first baseman, which I think is exactly what we see on MLB.

The rest is empirical from the OPS+ by position across baseball, but of course, there may be exceptions if one adds in age/baserunning/attitude/team errors in building their organization.

DH and PH are not positions for this.

[Tadasimha]

Catcher
Pitcher
Shortstop
2nd Base
3rd Base
1st Base
Centerfield
Corner Outfielder

[RuthMayBond]

1st Base
Centerfield
Good one :disappointed:

[Joltin' Joe]

Depending on the genetics and skill sets given to you, the hardest defensive position can be one of the following: C, SS, or CF.

After that I would say, in order: 2B, 3B, RF, LF, 1B.

[Tadasimha]

1st Base
Centerfield



Good one :disappointed:

Multiple plays being made every game, involving sharp reactions to dig balls out of the dirt, stretching long for throws from third, starting a double play, getting liners and throwing to covering pitcher. Centerfielders sometimes barefly have to jog to get into position (and sometimes the most athletic aspect of their play is foot speed).

Your argument against my opinion is such a good one, though. :disappointed:

[RuthMayBond]

Multiple plays being made every game, involving sharp reactions to dig balls out of the dirt, stretching long for throws from third, starting a double play, getting liners and throwing to covering pitcher. Centerfielders sometimes barefly have to jog to get into position (and sometimes the most athletic aspect of their play is foot speed).

Your argument against my opinion is such a good one, though. :disappointed:How about, Greg Luzinski and Dave Kingman played first base, not center field?

[GiambiJuice]

How about, Greg Luzinski and Dave Kingman played first base, not center field?

And Frank Thomas, and Jason Giambi etc etc etc...

Just imagine the Big Hurt roaming CF or diving for balls at short stop. That would be a sight to behold.

[StanTheMan]

Agreed!

Tadashima... You're waaay off on this one. Look at the WORST defensive 1B of all time. What made then poor? Lack of speed and quickness. Poor range on bunts and fould balls. Substandard glove work. Probably a below average arm.

ANY of those characteristics means you CANNOT play outfield, SS, or even 3B in the minor leagues, maybe not in Division I NCAA ball.

If mere repetition proves to make a defensive position difficult, why is P not ranked higher? With runners on base, throws from the catcher after pitches are IN PLAY, and there are lots of them he has to catch.. Sure, the ball is not thrown very hard, but neither are 80%+ of the balls thrown to first... You know, the ones where the runner is out easily?

Another thought. What % of the fans in the stands could catch 90% of the balls thrown to first? What % of the fans in the stands could catch just 50% of the balls caught by any outfielder or by the SS?

[Joltin' Joe]

involving sharp reactions to dig balls out of the dirt

There is no comparison between balls thrown by human beings and balls hit by a bat. Not even close. The latter is so much more difficult to field than the former.

To give you a picture of how low the standard is for the easiest defensive position (1B), how many times have you seen a 1Bman move like two feet to his side to make a play and the announcer says great play! Shortstops make plays that are much harder all the time and it is considered routine. The standard and expectation is exponentially higher at SS than at 1B.

[Tadasimha]

There is no comparison between balls thrown by human beings and balls hit by a bat. Not even close. The latter is so much more difficult to field than the former.
To give you a picture of how low the standard is for the easiest defensive position (1B), how many times have you seen a 1Bman move like two feet to his side to make a play and the announcer says great play! Shortstops make plays that are much harder all the time and it is considered routine. The standard and expectation is exponentially higher at SS than at 1B.

Having played both infield and outfield and observed play in the league I do play in, I do not find this statement to be true. There are far more easier plays in the outfield in which the fielder lopes over and gets under the ball as opposed to where the 1st baseman has to stretch and leap and dig to get the ball being thrown for other infielders.

[Tadasimha]

Agreed!

Tadashima... You're waaay off on this one. Look at the WORST defensive 1B of all time. What made then poor? Lack of speed and quickness. Poor range on bunts and fould balls. Substandard glove work. Probably a below average arm.

ANY of those characteristics means you CANNOT play outfield, SS, or even 3B in the minor leagues, maybe not in Division I NCAA ball.

If mere repetition proves to make a defensive position difficult, why is P not ranked higher? With runners on base, throws from the catcher after pitches are IN PLAY, and there are lots of them he has to catch.. Sure, the ball is not thrown very hard, but neither are 80%+ of the balls thrown to first... You know, the ones where the runner is out easily?

Another thought. What % of the fans in the stands could catch 90% of the balls thrown to first? What % of the fans in the stands could catch just 50% of the balls caught by any outfielder or by the SS?

Except for an easy grounder to 2nd base, every throw to the 1st baseman is hard due to the distance and the time involved (unless Manny Ramirez is running) and that's why the runner is out easily due to the speed of the throw.

You're not going to convince me to change my mind on this.

[RuthMayBond]

[B]

Having played both infield and outfield and observed play in the league I do play in, I do not find this statement to be true.

the 1st baseman has to stretch and leap and dig to get the ball being thrown for other infielders.

1) But is the 1st baseman expected to get wild throws?

2) What kind of league do you play in? I think we were talking major league level

[RuthMayBond]

Except for an easy grounder to 2nd base, every throw to the 1st baseman is hard due to the distance and the time involved (unless Manny Ramirez is running) and that's why the runner is out easily due to the speed of the throw.But that's ALL a 1B does a lot of the times, CATCH a throw, not having to snag a liner, pivot, etc.

<You're not going to convince me to change my mind on this.>

You have the right to be wrong

[Blackout]

i think it's hardest to play first base because they see the baseball the most



it's easiest to play catcher because all you do is squat down all day and throw out runners

[RuthMayBond]

i think it's hardest to play first base because they see the baseball the most



it's easiest to play catcher because all you do is squat down all day and throw out runnersSo have you ever actually played?

[Tenorman]

i think it's hardest to play first base because they see the baseball the most



it's easiest to play catcher because all you do is squat down all day and throw out runners

Actually, I'd argue that the catcher sees the baseball the most. And they handle pitchers, call the game, help position the fielders, get the crap beat out of them by the ball and the bat, spend all game in a knee-killing crouch, handle wild pitches, throw out runners, AND have to endure plays and collisions at the plate.

First basemen get to hold runners on first by standing nearby.

My order is C, SS, CF, 2B/3B (tie), LF/RF (tie)

[Blackout]

So have you ever actually played?

maybe I'm a paraplegic

[GiambiJuice]

maybe I'm a paraplegic

Nah, just a troll.

[StanTheMan]

Maybe we are all wrong. Perhaps the toughest position of all is "dreadfully wrong on a baseball message board topic."

You have to come up with all kinds of cockamamie statement to support your position. Catching three balls (max) a night on the short hop and one foul ball pop up per weekend is easier.

So then

Catcher-SS-OF-Woefully wrong on a message board-First Base-Third Base Coach-First Base Coach

[Rich the Giants fan]

[B]

Having played both infield and outfield and observed play in the league I do play in, I do not find this statement to be true. There are far more easier plays in the outfield in which the fielder lopes over and gets under the ball as opposed to where the 1st baseman has to stretch and leap and dig to get the ball being thrown for other infielders.

You're really sticking with this, then? Seriously?

[Rich the Giants fan]

i think it's hardest to play first base because they see the baseball the most



it's easiest to play catcher because all you do is squat down all day and throw out runners

Sarcasm, much?

[StanTheMan]

You're really sticking with this, then? Seriously?

Incredible, isnt it?


Maybe we should try it this way....

Pick TEN of the toughest plays make on a baseball diamond by ANY position and list them. My list has ZERO from first base.

In no particular order...

Hard hit ball to the SS left - deep in the hole
Hard hit ball directly AT the CF, either short of him or over his head
Smash to the hot corner when he is even with the bag or closer
Throw from RF to third after the RF had to go towards the line (RH thrower)
Throw home from RF - close play, the C can't see the runner as he has to watch the ball
Any throw home where the OF did not get to charge directly at the ball (coming in) or after a sac fly where he did not get the proper camp under it and catch it on the run/momentum due to how the batter hit the ball
Throw to 2B on a stolen base after the pitch was low or in the dirt
Pitches in the dirt with a man on third
Line drives in the gap with runners on base
SS or 2B taking a throw from an OF at the wall and they have to bring it home

[NYYankeesFan92]

maybe I'm a paraplegic


Nah, just a troll.

Or the most interesting man in the world.

[Joltin' Joe]

2) What kind of league do you play in? I think we were talking major league level

Exactly. The only time that 1B is considered a hard position is at the tee-ball level and perhaps maybe little league if the league quality is weak. They usually put the rare kid who can actually catch a ball at 1B. Just like 3B is a default position for the one kid that can actually make that long throw across the diamond.

[Joltin' Joe]

[B]

Having played both infield and outfield and observed play in the league I do play in, I do not find this statement to be true. There are far more easier plays in the outfield in which the fielder lopes over and gets under the ball as opposed to where the 1st baseman has to stretch and leap and dig to get the ball being thrown for other infielders.

Well perhaps for the genetics and the skill sets given to you by your parents maybe playing the OF comes easier than 1B; that we can't argue against you. That being said, catching a ball thrown by a human being is far easier than one by a bat. Arguably any position player good enough to make it to the MLB level could play 1B. With practice, one can become quite good at scooping up one hoppers. On the other hand, one can't just go out and master CF. If you don't have the speed, the "instincts", or the arm, you are not going to cut it. I don't see how you can rank 1B above CF.

[Rich the Giants fan]

This may be a bit of an extreme example, but I think it gets the point across.

Tonight in my softball league, our 80-something-year-old pitcher got lit up for 14 first inning runs. He was awful. So awful that for the first time in my seven years playing with this team, he got pulled. I've never seen him play another position. He can pitch and do little else. He can't run so he doesn't back up anything. He can't field his position. He can't do much but pitch.

So tonight, when he was pulled, where do you think we stuck him? That's right. First base. Do you think he could have played third, second or short? None chance. The outfield? Laughable in the extreme. Even catcher in softball requires too much agility and running for him. At first base, he can simply stand a few feet off the bag and then catch any balls thrown to him.

Again, extreme example and softball is a far cry from the majors, but the point of it all is that when he couldn't pitch, we stuck him at the easiest position to play.

[Rich the Giants fan]

Exactly. The only time that 1B is considered a hard position is at the tee-ball level and perhaps maybe little league if the league quality is weak. They usually put the rare kid who can actually catch a ball at 1B. Just like 3B is a default position for the one kid that can actually make that long throw across the diamond.

Actually, speaking as a t-ball coach, the kids rotate and everyone plays every position. And first base isn't hard because none of the kids can get the ball anywhere near him in the first place. But that's ok because every kid gets a hit in t-ball, whether you get the ball to first base in time or not.

Although t-ball can be a bit backward. After all, the safest position in t-ball is catcher. You've got all the equipment on and the ball is sitting on a tee being hit AWAY from you. That's cush!

[ol' aches and pains]

Oops. Never mind. :waving

[Joltin' Joe]

This may be a bit of an extreme example, but I think it gets the point across.

Tonight in my softball league, our 80-something-year-old pitcher got lit up for 14 first inning runs. He was awful. So awful that for the first time in my seven years playing with this team, he got pulled. I've never seen him play another position. He can pitch and do little else. He can't run so he doesn't back up anything. He can't field his position. He can't do much but pitch.

So tonight, when he was pulled, where do you think we stuck him? That's right. First base. Do you think he could have played third, second or short? None chance. The outfield? Laughable in the extreme. Even catcher in softball requires too much agility and running for him. At first base, he can simply stand a few feet off the bag and then catch any balls thrown to him.

Again, extreme example and softball is a far cry from the majors, but the point of it all is that when he couldn't pitch, we stuck him at the easiest position to play.

Wow he's still playing softball at 80+??? That is mighty impressive! Good for him!:bowdown:

[Joltin' Joe]

Actually, speaking as a t-ball coach, the kids rotate and everyone plays every position. And first base isn't hard because none of the kids can get the ball anywhere near him in the first place. But that's ok because every kid gets a hit in t-ball, whether you get the ball to first base in time or not.

Although t-ball can be a bit backward. After all, the safest position in t-ball is catcher. You've got all the equipment on and the ball is sitting on a tee being hit AWAY from you. That's cush!

Yeah you are right, but you know what I mean. At the early level, a more skilled athlete plays 1B and the trend starts reversing from there.

[drstrangelove]

Incredible, isnt it?


Maybe we should try it this way....

Pick TEN of the toughest plays make on a baseball diamond by ANY position and list them. My list has ZERO from first base.

In no particular order...

Hard hit ball to the SS left - deep in the hole
Hard hit ball directly AT the CF, either short of him or over his head
Smash to the hot corner when he is even with the bag or closer
Throw from RF to third after the RF had to go towards the line (RH thrower)
Throw home from RF - close play, the C can't see the runner as he has to watch the ball
Any throw home where the OF did not get to charge directly at the ball (coming in) or after a sac fly where he did not get the proper camp under it and catch it on the run/momentum due to how the batter hit the ball
Throw to 2B on a stolen base after the pitch was low or in the dirt
Pitches in the dirt with a man on third
Line drives in the gap with runners on base
SS or 2B taking a throw from an OF at the wall and they have to bring it home

I'm impressed by your list! When I pitched, bunts for base hits were hard for me, but these plays above are make those look like a picnic.