Q: What criteria are used to decide which outfielders play left field or right field? Which strengths and talents make a player better suited for one position vs. the other?
—Dan Cowles, Cumming
A: The same attributes are needed to play both left and right field, but regular right fielders at the highest levels of baseball generally have stronger arms than left fielders, former major-league outfielder Ron Gant told Q&A on the News. Gant played outfield for the Atlanta Braves and seven other MLB teams and is now the co-host of "Good Day Atlanta" on Fox 5. A strong arm is needed in right field because the threat of being thrown out at third base can cut down on base runners taking an extra base on balls hit to right or tagging from second on fly balls. Gant mentioned former Braves right fielder Jeff Francoeur among a group of strong-armed right fielders. Other differences could include whether a player is more comfortable playing one position or gets a better read on the ball playing left or right field.
Q: How can people donate to the Fisher House, which is helping military families who are not receiving death benefits?
—Mary Osborn, Fayetteville
A: Donations can be made through Fisher House's website at fisherhouse.org/donate or by mailing a check to Fisher House Foundation, Inc., 111 Rockville Pike, Suite 420, Rockville, MD, 20850-5168. The organization asks that potential donors print and include a donation form found at fisherhouse.org/assets/119/FisherHouseDonationForm.pdf. Fisher House Foundation is a 501(c)(3) that provides lodging for "for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers," according to its website.
Andy Johnston wrote this column. Do you have a question about the news? We’ll try to get the answer. Call 404-222-2002 or email q&a@ajc.com (include name, phone and city).
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