The Number 5 Position
The position labeled 5 in baseball is the position of the Third Baseman. The player assigned to this role should have a versatile set of skills so he can perform his functions well. This is because he guards and protects the third base which is considered the ‘hot corner”. The third base is where the fast reactions are demanded of players because reaching it and successfully crossing it brings a team closer to making a score.The third baseman should have a strong and quick arm, and he should be capable of making effective and powerful throws. This is because the throws he has to make must reach first base. The Third Baseman should also have quick reflexes and must be able to make fast reactions when he sees a ball fly after being strongly hit by a right-hander from the third baseline, or when there’s a bunt made by a batter.
Big Body, Power Hitter
Speed, agility, and mobility are not very important skills to have for the 5, but it is crucial is for him to have a big body structure. He will be expected to be one of his team’s power hitters. The third base is where the players with the least mobility are assigned, and these least mobile players are also the ones capable of making the most powerful hits.The 5 is usually righthanded, the same as with the catcher, the shortstop, and the second baseman. During recruitment drives, players who are chosen for the third base have been noted to be capable of throwing the ball right across the baseball diamond 85 MPH up to 95 MPH.
Defensive Skills and Complex Plays
The 5 should also possess a keen understanding of what a double play entails, and how to do an effective relay positioning. He should also be a master when it comes to specific defensive skills like performing bare hand plays, complex plays such as tough hops, and long hops. These are unique plays which when performed correctly, can make a third baseman stand out.Among the known third basemen are the likes of Manny Machado of the San Diego Padres, Brooks Robinson of the Baltimore Orioles, Chipper Jones who played for the Atlanta Braves, and Kris Bryant who plays for the Chicago Cubs.