A can of corn is a term used in baseball to describe a relatively easy fly ball caught by an outfielder. The phrase is believed to have originated during the early days of baseball when outfielders were expected to bring their own lunch to the game. An outfielder who was able to easily catch a fly ball was said to have “caught a can of corn,” as the canned vegetables were the most common lunch item.
Today, the term is used more figuratively to refer to an outfielder who has the ability to make easy catches. A can of corn player is someone who can easily catch fly balls, line drives, and other batted balls that come his way. These players are typically characterized by their ability to make difficult catches look easy, though they may also have other qualities, such as a strong arm, that distinguish them from other outfielders.
Qualities of a Can of Corn Baseball Player
When it comes to assessing a player’s ability to make catches, there are a few key qualities to look for in a can of corn player.
Range: A can of corn player must have the ability to cover a wide area of the outfield. He should be able to quickly get to a ball and have the arm strength to make a throw if necessary.
Soft Hands: Soft hands are essential for a can of corn player, as it allows him to make catches without having the ball bounce off his glove.
Focus: Focus is a critical quality for any outfielder, but especially for a can of corn player. He must be able to focus on the ball and catch it without being distracted by other elements in the game.
Arm Strength: Can of corn players should have strong arms to enable them to make long throws. This is especially important if the player is playing in a deeper part of the outfield.
History of the Can of Corn Player
The phrase “can of corn” has been used in baseball for well over a century. It is believed to have originated in the early days of the sport when players would bring their lunch to the game. Outfielders who were able to easily catch fly balls were said to have “caught a can of corn.”
The phrase has been used in the modern era as well, and is often used to describe an outfielder who has a great ability to make difficult catches look easy. The phrase is also sometimes used to describe an outfielder who is not particularly agile, but is able to make catches due to his awareness and focus on the ball.
Famous Can of Corn Players
There have been many great outfielders in the history of baseball who have been described as can of corn players. Some of the most notable include:
Willie Mays: Mays was one of the greatest outfielders of all time and is often referred to as the “Say Hey Kid.” He was known for his incredible range and soft hands, and was able to make difficult catches look effortless.
Ken Griffey, Jr.: Griffey was a great outfielder during his playing days and is often referred to as the “Natural.” He was known for his incredible arm strength and his ability to make catches in the deepest parts of the outfield.
Derek Jeter: Jeter was a great fielder during his time with the Yankees and is often referred to as the “Captain.” He was known for his soft hands and his ability to make difficult catches look easy.
Conclusion
Can of corn players are outfielders who possess a special talent for making easy catches look effortless. They have great range, soft hands, and the focus needed to make difficult catches. There have been many great can of corn players in the history of baseball, including Willie Mays, Ken Griffey Jr. and Derek Jeter.