Dear Chris,

I am a shortstop and I have a hard time making the throw from the hole.  Please help!

Joe from Oakland

Dear Joe,

That is an excellent question and a very common problem among those of us that had to learn how to play the middle infield. The play in the hole for a shortstop is the toughest play for him/her to make. It takes good arm strength, an accurate throw and good footwork. You are on the right track in that you make the play with your backhand and it is good that you are confident catching the ball with your backhand. This is a skill that you will need as you progress in the game of baseball.