Expert: John Priest - 10/27/2010

Question
My 12 year old son has played football for the last 5yrs, and has decided that
he wanted to give football a rest, and try baseball. Despite my insistence he
could do both, he wasn't having it any more, so I backed off.

He has never played organized baseball in his life, and I know he is behind
the 8 ball because I have friends who's kids are throwing in the high 80's at
12-13 years old, and are on traveling all-star teams. My son is 5'7 and a
natural athlete and has started both ways on the football field ever since he
picked up a football, so I know he has the athleticism and toughness to
possibly be successful if he puts his mind and effort into to it.

From the few times I have taken him to the park in the past, I know he is
afraid the ball. Not so much when it comes to hitting, but when it comes to
fielding a pop fly or a ground ball, he moves out of the way. I played baseball
coming up from little league to HS to adult leagues, but I'm not a baseball
coach. What is the best way to teach him to stay in front of the ball. I want to
focus on defense and throwing before we get to hitting.

Any advice would be great. Thanks

Answer
Mark,
Keep playing catch and, hitting ground and fly balls to him.  He needs to get comfortable with the glove and build confidence.  Just let him use his natural athleticism the catch or field the ball.  Once he gets the confidence then work on the finer details.  
Good luck,
John Priest