Outfielders must cover large distances, so speed, instincts and
quickness to react to the ball are key. They must be able to catch
fly balls above their head and on the run. They must be able to
throw the ball accurately over a long distance to be effective.
Amateur players may find it difficult to concentrate on the game,
since they are so far from the action. Emphasizing the correct
position will give outfield players something to concentrate on at
each pitch.
As well as the requirements above, the center fielder will be
the outfielder who has the best combination of speed and throwing
distance. The center fielder covers more ‘grass’
than any other player (see photo) and, most likely, will catch
the most fly balls. The center fielder also has the greatest
responsibility among the three outfielders for coordinating their
play to prevent collisions when converging on a fly ball, and on
plays where he does not make the catch, he must position himself
behind the corner outfielder in case the ball gets past him. He is
the captain of the outfield and has the authority to call off the
corner fielders when he thinks he can catch the ball. Aside from
requiring more speed and range, the center field position is
slightly easier to field because balls tend to fly on a straight
path, rather than curving as they do for the other outfield
positions. A center fielder's vision and depth perception for that
matter is a coveted skill and must be considered above average.
Because the center fielder requires a good arm and fast legs,
center field is generally the position where the team puts its best
all-around athletes; as a result, center fielders are often fine
hitters as well. Many center fielders are renowned as excellent
batters and base runners.
When a base runner is trying to steal second base the center
fielder must back up second base on throws from the catcher to
second base in case the second basemen misses the catch or it is a
bad throw.
Hall of
Fame center fielders
This cache is 370 feet from home plate at centerfield.
It is hidden in plain sight.
This cache is in the middle of a park.
Arnette Park
2165
Wilmington Hwy., Fayetteville,
NC, 28306
This 100-acre park is a
combination of developed facilities and natural woodland. It is
open to the public daily from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. from March through
October. Winter hours (November through February) are 9 a.m.- 5
p.m. Security patrols the park during operating hours. Picnic
pavilions, ball fields and more make this a popular gathering spot
for families and large groups. The one mile long perimeter road is
ideal for biking and walking.
LOTS of Muggles. Please be
aware of your surroundings. Extreme stealth is required.
