Everything a new fielder needs.

Start with how the game works, then learn the plays. About two minutes each — and each one ends with a real play you make yourself.

Start here: baseball basics

  1. How baseball works

    Two teams, three outs, runs and innings. The whole game in about two minutes.

  2. The field

    Four bases, a dirt diamond, grass to the fence, and two white lines.

  3. Nine fielders, nine jobs

    Pitcher to right fielder — where everyone stands and what they're there for.

  4. Why the shortstop is 6

    Every position has a number, 1 to 9. It's how plays get their names — like the famous 6-4-3.

Fielding school

  1. Touch the base or touch the runner?

    The first thing every fielder learns. Sometimes you just step on the bag. Sometimes you have to catch the runner.

  2. Get the lead runner

    The runner closest to home is the dangerous one. When you have time, go get THEM.

  3. Two outs on one ball

    Runner on first, ground ball to the infield. You can get TWO outs if you go to second first.

  4. Take the sure out

    Going for the big play is fun. Everybody safe is not. Know when to take the easy one.

  5. Two outs changes everything

    With two outs, ANY force ends the inning — and the run doesn't count. Even if they crossed the plate.

  6. Infield in!

    Runner on third, close game. Coach yells "infield in!" Now the play is at home.

  7. Hit the cut-off

    Outfielders: when you can't get the lead runner, keep everybody else where they are.

  8. Fly balls and tag-ups

    After you catch it, runners can take off from their base. Know who is going — and who you can get.

  9. Never throw behind the runner

    Throwing to a base where nobody is running gives away a free base — and the out you had.