How to Catch a Fly Ball
Catching a fly ball is a required skill when playing competitive baseball. With a seasoned player holding the bat, the chances of a fly ball occurring is quite high. You can only catch the ball if you can predict its trajectory as well as the exact spot where it will drop. Much practice is needed for you to develop the skill. However, once you get accustomed to it, you can catch fly balls with minimal effort.
Estimate the Drop Zone
A fly ball is pretty slow, giving you enough time to prepare for the landing. Once a batter hits the ball in an upward direction, follow it with your eyes. You’ll have an idea where it will land, based on its the trajectory, direction, and the force it was hit. Estimation must be quick, since you still need to chase the ball and dash to the area where you expect the ball to drop.
Your Glove is a Scope
flyball catchIf snipers use scopes to target victims from long distances, you have the contours of your glove to catch a fly ball. Upon arriving at the drop zone, raise your arm, forming something close to a 90-degree angle. Synchronize your movements with the ball’s, so you’re ready when it drops. As the ball begins to descend, use your glove to determine the spot where the ball will exactly land. Make the necessary adjustments then when you’re certain, stand beneath the ball.
Hold Your Arm Steady
Your catching arm should remain steady, otherwise the ball may simply bounce out of your glove. Maintain your arm’s near 90-degree angle, which gives your hand more support from your biceps and shoulders. Place your other hand beneath the glove for additional support. Once the ball drops, clamp down on it in an instant. Throw it immediately to a baseman, if the opposing runner is about to reach a base.
Quick Recovery
When you made an error in estimation, don’t lose hope. Raise your glove to the ball’s direction, as if your hand were magnitized. Store in your head the exact spot the ball will drop. Dive towards the right direction, with your glove getting to the dropping point in time for the catch. The diving catch is considered one of the hardest plays in the game. You should practice catching fly balls religiously, to execute such a move. Once you master it, you can stop even the most ballyhooed shot in baseball - the home run.