Second base or center field??

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Sep 9, 2014
75
6
Which of the two positions is more appealing to college coaches? My DD have the opportunity to play both positions in a very competitive team, however she likes the center field more and wants to focus on that one. She is 14yr
 

marriard

Not lost - just no idea where I am
Oct 2, 2011
4,312
113
Florida
Depends.

If she is fast and athletic, center field. Outfield is where the athletes play.

If she has better lateral movement and a killer glove and loves to dive and get dirty, run somewhere every play and be in the middle of everything, then 2nd. Also if she plays 2nd and the coaches know what they are doing, then she absolutely should get SOME time at SS during showcases.

Got to play to your strengths. Don't think of it as 'what does the coach like to see' - think of it as 'showing the coaches what I can do that would be great on their team'


Whoops need to add: Also depends what she wants to do. If she is going to hate 2B and wants to be CF it doesn't matter how good she is at it.
 
Jun 27, 2011
5,089
0
North Carolina
Which of the two positions is more appealing to college coaches? My DD have the opportunity to play both positions in a very competitive team, however she likes the center field more and wants to focus on that one. She is 14yr

Does she get to pick her position on this team?

If she prefers CF, I would not play 2B to appeal to college coaches. But I'd also play wherever my coach thought would help the team and not expect to have any say in the matter unless I were asked.
 
Dec 6, 2016
70
18
Usually, college coaches don't recruit 2B. They recruit SS then they convert them into a 2B once they get on campus. College coaches definitely recruit CF.
 
Jun 27, 2011
5,089
0
North Carolina
Usually, college coaches don't recruit 2B. They recruit SS then they convert them into a 2B once they get on campus. College coaches definitely recruit CF.

Good point, although I'd word that differently. I agree that coaches don't think, 'I need a 2B, let me going looking for a travel-ball 2B.' That future college 2B might be a current SS or CF in travel ball. But I wouldn't say that if you play 2B in travel that you're at a disadvantage, or that you'll be overlooked because college coaches are scouting SS's that they can convert. Lots of great 2B in travel ball could play SS for other TB teams, and lots of great 2B might just be better at 2B (quick, rangy, great hands, average arm) and will continue at that position in college.
 
Mar 21, 2013
353
0
Let her do both is possible. Infield and outfield work different mechanics. That being said being good at both never hurts.
 
Aug 13, 2013
344
28
Sayville
I like to look for those who play multiple positions. Those who will say I can play there if I need someone to play that spot. I don't go looking for certain spots. I go looking for the best players that fit my program
 
Oct 11, 2010
8,337
113
Chicago, IL
Let's ignore 1st baseperson, P and C. 1st you better be a great hitter.

Unless you are really special does a coach care about the other 6 Positions? If you hit the blank out of ball you will have scoloorship and in lineup?
 

JAD

Feb 20, 2012
8,231
38
Georgia
My guess on the order of priority of recruiting is P, C, SS, then CF. Most college coaches will recruit multiple SS's knowing they can play SS or 2B.
 
Oct 11, 2010
8,337
113
Chicago, IL
Ignoring P and C again, SS can usally play anywhere with some practice. Coached a few BB all star teams, usally have 10 Shortstops. Always wish I could have some players that had clue in OF.
 

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