Expert: Dennis Girardi - 3/27/2009

Question
I coach 7-9 year olds in Rookie ball and here's my question? There is a grounder to 1st. My 1st option at this age is tag 1st base for the out.But we were out there today and I was under the impression that no matter what,if the ball is hit to the 1st baseman or the 2nd baseman ,the shortstop covers 2nd.Whether the 1st baseman gets a sharp grounder on the line or 14 feet off the bag.The 2nd baseman never covers 2nd.Right?If anything they would back up or cover 1st,Correct?

Answer
Hey Michael,
That's incorrect...
If your trying to teach the child the right way to play the game, this is wrong.  If your trying to win the game at all cost, then this would be a better idea, because the chamces are, the shortstop is a much better player than the second baseman, who probably sits on the bench as often as he plays.. Am I right?
The proper rule is, anything hit on the right field side of the infield dictates for the shortstop to cover 2nd. Anything on the left field side, would be the second baseman..
Good Luck
Dennis