Second baseman
From Encyclopedia Jr, free information reference for Kids
- Second base redirects here. For other uses, see
Second base, or 2B, is the second of four stations on a baseball diamond which must be touched in succession by a base runner in order to score a run for that player's team. A second baseman is the baseball player guarding second base. Also called 2B, or second bagger, the second baseman often possesses quick hands and feet, needs the ability to get rid of the ball quickly, and must be able to make the pivot on a double play. Second base is also known as the keystone sack. In the numbering system used to record defensive plays, the second baseman is assigned the number 4.
Second basemen must be quick on their feet to hold the runner on base, back up the shortstop on all throws from the catcher, cover first base on bunted balls, and to field the position to either side. In fact, second basemen are required to have the greatest range of any infielder, since they have to field balls closer to the first baseman who is often holding runners on, or moving towards the base to cover. On a batted ball to right field, the second baseman goes out towards the ball for the relay.
[edit] Hall of Fame second basemen
- Rod Carew (later played first base)
- Joe Morgan
- Jackie Robinson (began his career at 1B then moved to 3B)
[edit] Other well-known second basemen
- Pete Rose
- See also:
| Baseball positions | |||
|---|---|---|---|
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| Outfielders: | Left field | Center field | Right field | ||
| Infielders: | 3rd base | Shortstop | 2nd base | 1st base | ||
| Pitcher | Catcher | |||
| Other: | Designated hitter | ||