While I agree that a fast guy breaking in the right direction with catch more balls than a slow guy breaking in the right direction, that's not really the point.
The discussion started with speed's affect on range. Again, that wrong first step cannot be corrected quickly enough to cover the same range as a quick first step in the right direction within a 50 foot radius. The first step is explosive. You're not going at full speed when you take it(obviously) but your momentum is moving fully in that direction.
I think, if I had to pick the better athlete, I'd probably have to go with Bolt myself. But I bet he can't hit a lick either.