In the world of baseball, a utility player is a special breed of player who may not possess the offensive prowess to secure a regular starting role on the team. However, their true strength lies in their ability to play multiple defensive positions.
These versatile players come to the rescue by providing much-needed rest to the regular starters, filling in for injured teammates, or lending their skills for improved defense in the late stages of a winning game. They truly are the unsung heroes of the team!
Utility infielders typically exhibit their versatility by adeptly handling both second base and shortstop positions, and occasionally, they may also cover third base. On rarer occasions, they may even step in as first basemen.
Similarly, a “fourth outfielder” is an outfielder capable of playing all three outfield positions but may lack the hitting skills required for a starting role.
Noteworthy utility players in Major League Baseball (MLB) who excel in both the infield and outfield include Marwin González, Brock Holt, Cory Spangenberg, and Ben Zobrist.
Is Being A Utility Player A Good Thing In Baseball?
Being a utility player in baseball can indeed be a valuable asset for a team. Utility players are often highly regarded for their defensive skills and versatility.
They excel in providing solid defensive options across multiple positions on the field. In fact, it is not uncommon for a utility player to possess superior defensive abilities compared to their offensive prowess.
While their offensive capabilities may not always warrant a regular starting role, utility players often have a batting proficiency that is more than capable of contributing to the team when called upon for short-term assignments.
Their batting skills are typically strong enough to make them viable options in the starting lineup when needed.
Why Do You Use A Utility Player?
Utility players are useful for a variety of reasons. A utility player is dependable, which is the most important reason to use them. When you need defensive assistance, you need a player on your roster you can count on.
The reason starters are in the starting lineup is because they are better at offense. Utility players can win you a close game with their defense in the late innings. Ultimately, the more flexible the player is, the more support that player can provide.
Where Do You Use A Utility Player?
Utility players can play almost any position. Most utility players don’t fill certain positions. Usually, utility players don’t replace pitchers, catchers, or first basemen. It doesn’t mean that utility players won’t be on the roster, but backups are usually assigned to those positions.
Utility players typically play second, short, third, or outfield. A utility player’s greatest strength is flexibility, as we mentioned earlier.
When Do You Use A Utility Player?
When a starting player is injured, you can use a utility player. In the event that your starter is injured for a lengthy period of time, you can rely on the utility player to fill in.
It’s up to you when you’re in this position. Using a utility player could be for one game or a series. Utility players can even be used as starters and substitutes at different times during the game.
Players who fit the utility profile are flexible, which makes them ideal for the position. During the course of a season, a strong utility player may play more frequently. It is not uncommon for utility players to start the third or more game of a season. Your team’s needs determine how often and when you use a utility player.
Who Do You Use As A Utility Player?
Your depth chart may reveal a utility player on your roster. The role can be filled by a player who does not make the starting lineup, but has the ability to play multiple positions.
Consider which player would be most comfortable to use as a defensive sub in the late innings. Would you use this player as your first choice if there was an injury?
You have a utility player if the answer is yes. It is a good idea to have a utility player on your defense. Utility players are often better defenders than hitters. On a short-term basis, they have a strong bat that can be in the starting lineup.
How Do You Use A Utility Player?
Using a utility player could allow the starters to rest. It is possible to start a utility player three times in a row. Three starters could get a break from the lineup.
It is possible to decrease the risk of injury to your starters by using this player. Especially in a long season, some players appreciate scheduled rest days.
A utility player may also be helpful in cases where extreme games must be played back-to-back. The use of a utility player might be advantageous if you are playing a doubleheader or maybe you are in a tournament.
You may also benefit from having a utility player even if he does not pitch. Players who can play multiple positions can be used as relief pitchers if you have one who can play multiple positions. You could keep a pitcher in the lineup while getting defensive help from the field, depending on the level of your team.
You have even more options if your utility player can also pitch. Utility players can play field and then relievers can close out games. It is possible to move the utility player into the field after bringing him into the game as a relief pitcher.
Some might consider a utility player to be a fourth outfielder. Fourth outfielders are good enough to platoon but are not starters.
It is possible that one of your three outfielders will have difficulty batting against lefties, playing a day game after a night game, or in some other situation.
An outfield position may be platooned in this case, meaning the position will be rotated between two or more players.
The Bottom Line
It is not uncommon for utility players to play in a variety of positions on a regular basis. Often, utility players are average hitters at best, but their biggest asset is their gloves. It is important for a utility player to be able to switch between positions and understand their unique demands.
Players carrying multiple gloves may be able to move from one position to another. When necessary, utility players can lead on the field. In addition to pick-off moves, infield shifts, or other defensive strategies, they may be involved in defensive substitutions.
Whether it is the first pitch or the last pitch, a utility player is available to enter the game at any time. It doesn’t matter what the score is or what the situation is, these players are available and ready to go. Any team would benefit greatly from having a solid utility player.
