Middle infielders shifting left or right to play right or left handed batters

[rwesser]

I help coach high school softball. Some of the players have experience playing baseball, and the middle infielders are in the mindset of shifting to their right for a right-handed batter and shifting to their left for a left-handed batter. I can see middle infielders doing this in baseball where the infield is over twice the size of a softball field, but I don't think it's a good idea in softball - leaves some gaping holes. What are your thoughts?

 

[LPF4]

I coach 10u and I absolutely shift my infield and outfield, but more importantly I base it on my pitcher and the opposing hitter.

This past season we had two pitchers. One that pitched fast and one that was average. I knew that with our fast pitcher I could shift everyone to go away. With our 2nd pitcher I had to play everyone in a regular position. I also like to do the score book so I can look for tendencies on hitters. My DD always hits to the right side, but her teammate who is the smallest on the team always pulls the ball over the 3rd base side even against the fastest pitchers.

Few weeks ago I went to a 14u friendly and one of the teams always brought their infield towards the mound so they could see what the signs were from the catcher. Hopefully their pitcher has good control and can hit her spots.

Hope this helps.

 

[Amy in AZ.]

I, also, like the shift. I echo LPF4's thoughts.

 

[InsidePitch]

On DD's team, the MIs signal the OF the pitch and move according to the batter and the call.