How to Write Down Baseball Defense Calls
- 1). Learn the numbers assigned to each position on the diamond. For example, the pitcher is "1," the catcher "2," first base "3," second base "4," third base "5," shortstop "6," left field "7," center field "8" and right field "9." Memorize these numbers as you will need them for every play in the game.
- 2). Write down "outs" recorded when a player hits the ball into the air to a defender. For a "fly-out," write an "F" followed by the number corresponding to the fielder who caught the ball. Place it in the middle of the diamond symbol on the page. For example, if a player is out on a fly ball to center field, write "F8." In the lower-left corner of the square, write a "1," "2" or "3" with a circle around it, depending on whether it is the first, second or third out of the inning. If the out is made on a "line-out," replace the "F" with an "L." If it is made on a foul-out, replace the "F" with "FO."
- 3). Record outs that are made by ground balls. Write a "G" followed by the number corresponding to the fielder for a ground-out where only one fielder is involved. For example, a ground-out where the first baseman fields the ball and steps on the base would read "G3." For ground-ball plays that involve a throw, omit the letter and write the sequence of numbers that correspond to the ball's path. For example, a ground ball that the shortstop fields and throws to first base would read "6-3." For a double-play, write the sequence of numbers with the letters "DP" over the top. Always record the "out" number in the lower-left corner.
- 4). Write down outs that are made by strikeouts. Write a "K" in the middle of the diamond when a player strikes out swinging. If the player strikes out without swinging, write a backward "K." You can also write "Ks" for a swinging strikeout and "Kc" for a called strikeout.
- 5). Write down outs that are recorded in other ways. Write "IFR" in the middle of the diamond for an out made on the Infield Fly Rule (an infield pop-up with two or more runners on base and fewer than two outs). Write the letter "U" followed by the defensive position number for an unassisted putout such as a ground ball to the third baseman who tags a runner out.
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