The shortstop is the fielder positioned between second and third base. He’s position number 6 and, for many, the most important defender on the field: he covers the most ground and touches the most balls in the infield.
The infield’s anchor
Most balls are hit to the left side, so the shortstop fields a huge share of the action. He needs range to both sides, a strong arm to throw from deep in the hole and quick hands to turn double plays. He’s the axis the whole infield rotates around.
A position made for Latinos
Shortstop has produced legends from across Latin America: Venezuela’s Omar Vizquel won 11 Gold Gloves, and today Fernando Tatís Jr. and Elly De La Cruz light up the position. It’s the spot where speed, arm and glove matter most all at once.
FAQ
Why is he number 6 and not 5?
The scoring numbering was set that way early in the game’s history.
Why is he so valuable?
He covers the most ground and handles the most plays in the infield, so a great one shapes the whole defense.
