Quick Summary: Left-handed players have unique advantages in baseball, especially at first base and on the pitcher’s mound. While less common, skilled lefties can also excel at outfield positions, leveraging their throwing ability. This guide explores the best positions for lefties, maximizing their natural talents for success on the diamond.

Best Baseball Positions for Lefties: A Genius Guide

Are you a lefty player wondering where you fit best on the baseball field? Many left-handed athletes feel a bit unsure about which positions play to their strengths. It’s a common question, and the good news is that being a lefty can be a huge advantage in baseball! Instead of feeling limited, let’s explore how you can use your natural abilities to shine. This guide will break down the top baseball positions for left-handed players, helping you find your perfect spot on the diamond.

We’ll go through the most common and effective positions for lefties, explain why they are great fits, and even touch on a few surprise options. Get ready to discover how to turn your left-handedness into your greatest asset in the game.

Why Left-Handed Players Have an Edge in Baseball

It might seem like a simple difference, but being left-handed in baseball offers some significant strategic advantages. Let’s look at why the lefty swing and throw are so valuable:

• Throwing Angle: A lefty’s throw naturally angles towards first base from most defensive positions. This is a massive advantage when playing near the first base line or covering it.
• Advantage for Hitters: Left-handed batters, often called “lefties,” reach first base quicker than right-handed batters when they hit the ball to the right side of the infield. This pressure can lead to more errors and extra bases.
• Unique Defensive Skills: Certain defensive plays become simpler for lefties, reducing the risk of errors and making them more efficient.

Top Positions for Left-Handed Players

When considering baseball positions for lefties, some stand out immediately. These are the spots where their natural throwing motion and other advantages are most impactful.

1. First Baseman (1B)

This is arguably the most natural and common position for left-handed players. The reasons are straightforward and incredibly effective:

• Receiving Throws: When a throw comes from the right side of the infield (like from the shortstop or third baseman), a lefty first baseman can catch the ball and step on first base without having to turn their glove hand away from the runner. This is much quicker and reduces the chance of a dropped ball or a poor throw.
• Covering the Base: If the first baseman has to field a ground ball or pop-up near their own base, they can often make the play and throw to second base (or anywhere else) with their natural throwing motion, especially if the play is to their left.
• Making the Turn: After catching a throw, they can quickly transition to touching the base or throwing to another base. This speeds up the game and can prevent runners from advancing.

Pros for Lefties at First Base:

• Easiest and most natural fit for most lefties.
• Significant advantage in receiving throws and making quicker plays.
• Less need for awkward, spinning throws to get runners out.

Cons for Lefties at First Base:

• Can sometimes struggle to cover bunts hit slightly to their left if the pitcher or second baseman isn’t close to first.
• Requires good footwork and anticipation.

2. Pitcher (P)

Left-handed pitchers, often called “southpaws,” are highly sought after in baseball at all levels. Their effectiveness comes from a combination of factors:

• Unfamiliar Angles for Hitters: Most hitters practice facing right-handed pitchers their whole lives. A lefty’s pitches come from a different angle, making it harder for hitters to time them. This is especially true for right-handed batters.
• Breaking Balls: A lefty’s curveball or slider can break away from a right-handed batter, making them look very effective. Conversely, a lefty’s ability to throw a curveball that breaks into a left-handed batter can be a powerful weapon.
• Ground Ball Inducer: Many left-handed pitchers have success inducing ground balls. When a left-handed pitcher fields a ground ball hit back at them, they can often throw to first base with a natural motion.
• Situational Pitching: Lefty pitchers are often brought in for specific situations, like facing a tough left-handed batter or minimizing damage from a strong left-handed lineup.

According to Baseball-Reference, 25% of Major League pitchers through 2023 were left-handed. This shows their consistent presence and value in the game.

Pros for Lefties at Pitcher:

• Inherent advantage against right-handed batters.
• Unique arm angles make them harder to hit.
• Highly valuable for specific game situations.

Cons for Lefties at Pitcher:

• Can be vulnerable if they haven’t developed pitches that work against same-handed batters.
• Requires extensive training and skill development.

3. Outfield Positions (LF, CF, RF)

While traditionally right-handed players have dominated outfield spots, left-handed players can excel, particularly in the corners.

Left Fielder (LF)

This is another strong contender for lefties. Here’s why:

• Throwing to Third Base: When a ball is hit to the left fielder, especially for a single, their natural throwing motion is directly towards third base. This makes it quicker and easier to throw out a runner trying to advance an extra base.
• Relay Throws: In relay situations, a lefty’s throw from left field to an infielder will naturally be angled towards the infield, making it efficient.

Pros for Lefties in Left Field:

• Natural throwing motion towards third base.
• Can make quick outs on runners trying to stretch singles.

Cons for Lefties in Left Field:

• Can be slightly slower covering ground to their right (towards center field) compared to a right-handed outfielder.
• Requires good defensive instincts and communication with the center fielder.

Center Fielder (CF)

Center field is often considered the most demanding outfield position because it requires the most range. While not as inherently natural for lefties as first base or left field, a skilled lefty can absolutely play here.

• Range to the Right: Similar to the con for LF, a lefty CF might have a slightly harder time covering ground rapidly to their right (towards right field) compared to a righty. However, with good athleticism and anticipation, this can be overcome.
• Throwing: Their natural throwing angle towards third base is still an advantage on balls hit to the left side of center field.

When can a lefty play CF? When they possess exceptional speed, range, and a strong, accurate arm. If a lefty has the athletic ability to cover the vast territory of center field, their throwing advantages can still be utilized effectively.

Pros for Lefties in Center Field:

• Can excel with superior speed and athleticism.
• Throwing advantages on certain balls.

Cons for Lefties in Center Field:

• Slight disadvantage in covering ground to their right rapidly.
• Requires elite athletic ability to excel at this demanding position.

Right Fielder (RF)

This is typically the least common position for lefties in the outfield. The primary reason is the throwing angle.

• Throwing to Third Base: When a ball is hit to the right fielder, their natural throwing motion is away from third base. This means they often have to make a more awkward, angled throw to get a runner out trying to advance.
• Double Play Ability: They are less naturally positioned to turn quick double plays.

However, if a left-handed player has an exceptionally strong arm and works specifically on their throwing mechanics from RF, they can overcome some of these challenges. It’s often seen as a position to put a player with a great bat but less defensive versatility.

Pros for Lefties in Right Field:

• Can be utilized if they have an elite arm and hitting prowess.
• Might offer an offensive advantage if you have a strong-armed lefty bat.

Cons for Lefties in Right Field:

• Disadvantageous throwing angle to third base.
• Less natural for defensive plays requiring quick throws to third.

Less Common but Possible Positions for Lefties

While the above are the most common, let’s look at some other spots where lefties can contribute.

Second Baseman (2B)

Playing second base as a lefty is challenging but not impossible, especially in youth leagues or with specific skill sets.

• Double Plays: The biggest hurdle is turning a double play. When a ground ball is hit to the left side of the infield, a lefty second baseman would have to field it, turn, and throw across their body towards first. This is awkward and slow. Traditional double plays usually involve the second baseman moving to cover second base and receiving a throw from the shortstop. A lefty often has to throw to first, making their role different.
• Fielding Shorter Balls: They can be effective on balls hit directly at them or slightly to their right.

Pros for Lefties at Second Base:

• Can be effective on balls hit directly to them.
• Quicker plays to first base on grounders up the middle.

Cons for Lefties at Second Base:

• Extremely difficult to execute traditional double plays.
• Awkward throwing motion for many infield plays.

Shortstop (SS)

Similar to second base, shortstop is very difficult for lefties due to the demands of turning double plays and making throws across the diamond.

• Range to Their Left: A lefty can cover a lot of ground to their left (towards third base).
• Double Plays: On ground balls hit to their right, they would have to cross their body to throw to first, which is inefficient and increases the risk of error.

However, some creative players and coaches have found ways. A left-handed shortstop might play deeper or be used in situations where the primary role is fielding and making a quick throw to an infielder covering second base, rather than making a strong throw themselves.

Third Baseman (3B)

Third base is traditionally a position for right-handed players, which makes it inherently tough for lefties.

• Hard-Hit Balls: The majority of hard-hit balls at third base come from the right side of the plate and go to the third baseman’s left. A lefty would have to field these, turn, and throw across their body to first base, which is a very difficult play.
• Throws to First: Their natural throwing motion is away from first base.

It’s extremely rare to see a lefty at third base in organized baseball because the defensive disadvantage is so significant. The risk of errors on hard-hit balls and the difficulty of making routine throws to first base make it unsuitable for most left-handed players.

Training Tips for Left-Handed Players

No matter which position you aim for, dedicated training can help you excel. Here are some specific tips for lefties:

1. Focus on Your Strengths

• Pitchers: Work on your fastball command, develop your off-speed pitches (curveball, changeup), and practice fielding comebackers.
• First Basemen: Master your footwork around the bag, practice receiving throws from various angles, and hone your ability to stretch for throws.
• Outfielders: Develop strong throwing arms, practice efficient crow-hops, and work on your routes to fly balls.

2. Practice Awkward Throws

Even if you’re going to play a position where it’s not your primary throw, practice making those cross-body throws or throws from your non-dominant side. This builds versatility and makes you a more well-rounded player.

3. Develop Your Hitting

Many left-handed players are naturally good hitters. Work on your swing mechanics, power, and making solid contact. Don’t forget to practice bunting, as it’s a valuable skill for any hitter.

4. Conditioning and Agility

For outfielders and infielders, agility, speed, and quickness are crucial. Incorporate drills that improve your change of direction and explosive movements. For pitchers, maintaining arm strength and core stability is key.

5. Understand Game Situational Play

Learn when you, as a lefty, can be exceptionally effective. For pitchers, this means understanding matchups. For fielders, it means knowing how your throwing angle affects potential plays.

Equipment Considerations for Lefties

While most baseball equipment is universal, there are a few items specifically tailored for lefties.

Gloves

This is the most obvious. If you throw right-handed, you’ll wear a glove on your left hand, and vice-versa. Ensure your glove is the correct size for your position (smaller for infielders, larger for outfielders and first basemen) and that it fits comfortably.

First Base Mitts

First base mitts are specific. A right-handed thrower uses a left-handed first base mitt (worn on the right hand), and a left-handed thrower uses a right-handed first base mitt (worn on the left hand).

Catcher’s Gear

Catcher’s mitts are also handed. A right-handed catcher wears a left-handed mitt, and a left-handed catcher wears a right-handed mitt.

Bats

Batting is about preference and technique, not handedness of the bat itself. You select a bat based on length, weight, and material, not whether you swing from the left or right.

You can find great resources for gear at reputable retailers like Baseball America, which offers reviews and guides.

Understanding Your Strengths: Left vs. Right Infielders

To truly grasp why certain positions favor lefties, it helps to visualize the infield dynamics. Here’s a table comparing some key differences:

Infield Position	Typical Left-Handed Advantage/Challenge	Typical Right-Handed Advantage/Challenge
First Base	Receives throws naturally, quick tag plays, easier transition to throwing.	Must turn glove-side to field balls near the line, slightly slower receiving routine throws.
Second Base	Challenging for double plays, good on balls hit directly at them.	Natural position for turning double plays, broader range to their right.
Shortstop	Challenging for double plays, excellent range to their left.	Natural position for double plays, optimal throwing angles across the infield.
Third Base	Very challenging due to awkward throws on hard-hit balls.	Natural position for fielding hard-hit balls and making quick throws to first.

FAQ: Baseball Positions for Lefties

Q1: Is it always better for a left-handed player to play first base?

For most left-handed players, first base is the most natural and tactically advantageous position. Their throwing motion aligns perfectly with stepping on the bag after receiving a throw. However, some lefties may have the arm strength and athleticism to excel as pitchers or outfielders.

Q2: Can left-handed players play shortstop or second base?

It’s very difficult. The biggest challenge for lefties at these middle infield positions is turning double plays. Their natural throwing motion is across their body, which is slower and less accurate for quick outs at first or second. While some exceptionally skilled lefties might find a niche, these positions are typically best suited for right-handed players.

Q3: What makes left-handed pitchers so valuable?

Left-handed pitchers (southpaws) are prized because they throw from a different arm angle than most batters are accustomed to. This can make their pitches harder to hit, especially for right-handed batters. Their breaking balls can also have a visually deceptive break.