Players can be characterized as either
corner outfielders or a
center fielder. Corner outfielders are often slower and have less defensive value than the
center fielder. However, there are some important differences between
right fielders and
left fielders. Right fielders tend to have the best throwing arms of the outfield so they can make the long throw to third base, but often are not as fast as left fielders. Center fielders are generally the fastest and most athletic of the three, because they have to run the farthest in order to field balls in the gaps and back up the other outfielders when balls are hit to them. Outfielders should also be able to read where the ball may be placed based on what the pitcher is throwing. They can tell what the pitcher is throwing by the middle infielders, second base and short stop, in which they show the numbers the catcher is giving to the pitcher behind their back to determine the pitch and tell where the ball could possibly be hit to. Many of the best power hitters in baseball play in the
outfield, where they do not have as constant involvement in fielding plays as other positions, especially before the institution of the
designated hitter. For example,
Babe Ruth was moved from
pitcher to the outfield. Left fielders and right fielders are more often slow power hitters, and center fielders are usually fast base-runners and good defensive players. Center field is often considered the most difficult outfield position, requiring both a good throwing arm and speed. Center fielders on many teams often bat
lead off. Players who do not routinely start games, but often substitute as a pinch hitter or defensive replacement in the outfield are referred to as
fourth outfielders or even
fifth outfielders. These players can usually play any of the three outfield positions. ==Corner outfielders==