A lot is expected of those who play up the middle of the field at all levels. It is the players presence on the field that will determine if coaches, scouts, and recruiters remain interested.

Instinctive, competitive, poised and leader are words used to describe successful catchers, middle infielders and elite center fielders. It is the general way these players carry themselves. They need to take in and adjust to different situations because there is a play to make on each pitch, It is these qualities and the fact that they have a different level of involvement in the game than any other position that lead many former up the middle players into coaching and managing.

Although a lot of being an elite player is innate ability, most physical aspects of the game can be improved with proper training practice.

Often times players focus only on throwing and hitting and never learn the fine art of playing an up the middle position. They should work on being a well rounded player because there is much more to it than the ability to throw and hit. The ability to make plays and handle the game separates the good from the great and the great from the elite.