Every position in baseball has a specific role and responsibility.
These positions range in the responsibility and the overall skill that it takes to play the position. While it is difficult to rank the most important positions, we take our shot at it below.
The different positions in baseball required a variety of skills. For example, the center fielder and the catcher are both important positions. One position requires speed and the ability to read the ball off the bat, while the other position requires strength, quickness, a strong arm and the ability to understand the game.
Both positions are essential to having a quality defensive team and competing for a championship at whatever level the team plays at.
Baseball Positions In Order of Importance
- Pitcher
- Catcher
- Shortstop
- Centerfield
- 2nd Base
- 3rd Base
- 1st Base
- Left Field
- Right Field
Why is the Pitcher the most important position?
Without someone that can throw strikes and keep the batters off balance, not much else matters. If the pitcher is throwing pitches that allow the batters to hit the ball all over the place at a high exit velocity, the defense won’t have much of a chance. The most difficult part about pitching is that you need more than one quality pitcher.
At the major league level 5 pitchers are starters and around 7-8 more pitchers are in the bullpen. The skill set and the responsibilities vary from starter to reliever. Even amongst the relief pitcher it varies as the amount of pressure on the closer is massive, especially with only a 1 run lead heading to the bottom of the last inning.
What is left and right field the last two most important?
While every position is important, someone has to be last. If you look at the history of the two corner positions in the outfield, they are often reserved for the player that also has a big bat and can drive in runs.
The most important skills in these positions, especially right field, is a strong arm to keep runners from always advancing two bases on a regular base hit and throwing the ball from the corner in right field to hold the hitter to a double instead of a triple. Overall, some home run hitters, who might not be the most talented in the field, have played the corner outfield positions.
What is the most important position in the infield?
Outside of pitcher and catcher, the shortstop is the most important position in the infield. A shortstop with quality range can be a game changer by taking away base hits, turning potential double plays and being the anchor of the infield. The best shortstops have a huge range with a strong arm.
The 2nd baseman doesn’t require as strong of an arm as the shortstop because the throw is shorter. The 3rd basement doesn’t require as much range because the total area covered is less. Overall, the shortstop has some great responsibility and requires a high level of skill. An elite shortstop is more important than an elite corner outfielder as they will have a greater impact on the outcome of the game.
How does a quality center fielder change a game?
The team with a center fielder that has a high level of speed and can chase a ball down in the gap is at an advantage. A fast center field, who can get a good jump on the ball, can make up for a right or left fielder that has less speed and range. Overall, the center fielder is as important to the outfield as the shortstop is to the infield.
Defenses need to be strong up the middle!
If you have heard this before, it is true. Baseball teams see the catcher, shortstop and center field positions as the essential positions to support the pitching staff on the team. When you can have elite defensive players in these positions, your team is in an ideal position to win a lot of games, assuming you have quality pitching.
How have defensive positions changed over the years?
If you watch an MLB game, you will see major shifts that teams put into play. For example, the shortstop might be all the way over to the 2nd base side of the infield if there is a big powerful left up to bat who pulls the ball frequently. This moves the 3rd basemen into the shortstop positions and shifts the 2nd basement into shallow right field. What does all of this mea? Infielders have to be even more talented and be able to field and throw ground balls from different angles.
It also impacts who is turning the double play. It isn’t uncommon to see a 3rd baseman now covering 2nd base on a ball hit to the right side of the infield.
How can a 1st baseman change the game?
A 1st baseman that can scoop a ball in the dirt is a game changer. This takes the pressure off of the other infielders on always needing to make the perfect throw. Instead, the infields can throw the ball with solid velocity without too much fear of loss accuracy.
When you have a tall 1st baseman that can grab a ball thrown high or scoop a ball thrown low, you have a true gem at that position. One that can change the complexion of an inning by making a quality catch at 1st base.
Final Thoughts: Baseball Positions in Order of Importance!
While every position is important, there are ones that require more skill, speed, or arm strength. The middle infielders have to spend more time on their craft compared to a corner outfield. They must maintain their soft hands, their footwork and their ability to make a strong throw across the diamond.
Baseball is a a true team game and the star player with the big contract doesn’t have the same impact as he might in a sport like basketball with only 5 players on the court. Identifying what position is best for you to play is important and we have some helpful resources linked below!