Cardinals Start Work on Defense

We began to hit a little more at Wednesday’s practice. Some of it off the pitching machine and the rest as batting practice, but either way it was good for everyone to get some swings in. The catchers continued to get blocking and framing work in today, and the infielders got more ground balls. For the first time since being back this semester, however, we worked on team defensive drills and situational defense. A main focus, like with every team, comes during first and third situations along with the times during the game that a team is probable to bunt.

During the drills, but especially during games, you like to have a player in the infield who can control the situation and understand every possible outcome, and I think Tory Bouyea (pictured) is that type of player.

Tory took over the starting shortstop role early in the season last year and immediately took our defense and offense to a new level. I personally believe he was far and above the best complete shortstop in the conference last season. He understands his role on offense, rarely has a bad at-bat, great in the field, and has well above the average understanding of the game. It puts my mind and the minds of others on the field at ease knowing he’ll rarely be out of position or not be doing something to help the team in any aspect. He constantly pushes himself and others to work harder and I can tell you every player, I especially, appreciate that.

#17 = Matt Burns