Utility player

A utility player or utility man is a player who can appear at several different positions, specifically both infield and outfield positions. Such players are prized for their roles on the bench, especially in the modern era of large pitching staffs and reduced benches, as they provide teams with a lot of flexibility. There are also more specifically utility infielders, who back up usually at second base, shortstop and third base - players like Randy Velarde have filled this role for years. Occasionally, a utility player will be so effective, such as Tony Phillips, that they get a regular spot in the lineup for years to come without ever holding a position as a regular. The term is sometimes used to refer to any backup position player, but this is a far less common usage.

In 2022, Rawlings, which sponsors the Gold Glove Awards announced that it would give out a tenth award in each league, to recognize the work of utility players. In that particular case, qualifying players would only need to have their defensive games split between any two or more positions, without the consideration that one should be in the infield and the other in the outfield.

Further Reading

• Thomas Harrigan: "Best utility man ever? These 12 have a case", mlb.com, May 25, 2020. [1]

Related Sites

• Article on "supersubs" in The Hardball Times, part 1
• Article on "supersubs" in The Hardball Times, part 2
• Article on "supersubs" in The Hardball Times, part 3
• Article on "supersubs" in The Hardball Times, part 4