lefthanded infielder

Question
I would like your thoughts on having a lefty play shortstop, 3rd base, or 2nd base. We play 14U fastpitch.  Thanks

Answer
Hello Randy,

Boy is this ironic!  I also have a 14U travel team with a lefthanded player who is a former shortstop.  I'll tell you how I intend to handle it.  When she joined my team this season I was very upfront with her mother about the fact that the only infield spots she would be playing are 1st and possibly pitcher (she is currently taking pitching lessons.)  The reason for this is if she is fortunate enough to advance to college she'll never play any of the other positions.  It is too hard to make a play at first from either third or short on a ball that isn't hit hard.  You are not in the correct position to make the throw after charging a grounder and 60 foot base pads don't allow that time.  The only position you may get away with it at, is second base.  It's a shorter throw, but almost impossible to turn a double play for the above mentioned reasons.  You really don't see many double plays at this age group except possibly unassisted shortstop double plays so this would be the most likely spot to put her if you had to use her somewhere besides first.  Let me know how it works out, I may use your advice on this one!

Coach Mike