The best method for insuring maximum coverage for all types of fly balls is to establish policies for catching them...

In general, the center fielder has the right-of-way over the other fielders and all outfielders have the right-of-way over all infielders since cathing a fly ball running in is much easier than catching one running back.

In the infield, the priority from top to bottom is:

1. Shortstop
2. Second base
3. Third base
4. First base
5. Catcher
6. Pitcher

Notice that the first baseman, second baseman, third baseman, and shortstop have the right-of-way over the pitcher and catcher. Infielders should do everything possible to take the responsibility of catching pop flies off the pitcher and the catcher who generally have difficult angles on pop flies and physical hazards like the mound, home plate, and the backstop to deal with.

A few keys to make everyone’s job a little easier are:

• Always pursue pop flies full speed until you hear someone with the right-of-way call you off (This is especially true for infielders going into the outfield to make plays).

• If possible, call the ball at its highest point. Calling a pop fly too early on a windy day will create more problems than it alleviates.

• Use the words, “I got it” over “ball, ball, ball” and don’t say anything if you don’t plan on catching the ball. (the phrases, “you go” or “take it” only cause problems)

Q: Who has priority on an infield pop fly in foul territory between the catcher and the third baseman?

A: 3rd