How To Play First Base A window into the game of baseball

First base is different you're always involved you have to catch everything thrown to you

Positioning yourself correctly Foot opposite your glove hand against the edge of the base Not on top of the base Bring your glove up and open it as wide as your hand will allow

If a ball is hit on the ground to you Catching it is your first priority Run directly to first base Only throw to the pitcher if you don't think you can make it there in time yourself The pitcher should be running over to cover the base

Backing up other positions If a ball is hit into the outfield and there may be a play at second base, third base or home plate, be ready to back up those bases in case a throw gets loose. This is fundamental baseball/softball!

Talk to the people who reach base All first basemen do it and it's fun It's also a good way to get to know other players around your league

Advanced If there is a runner on 2nd, and the ball is hit to SS or 3B, expect that runner to take off as soon as the ball leaves the infielders hand. In this case, you may have an opportunity to make an out at 3rd with a nice low tag throw. Keep in mind that if your throw is wild, it will result in a run, (unless you have a very forward thinking left fielder to bail you out).

Rest of the team? All players have assignments. E.g., all players cover (backup) bases where there might be throws in case there is an errant throw

how_to_play_first_base.doc Notes The HTML version will not work correctly Reference: in-Slow-Pitch-Softballhttp:// in-Slow-Pitch-Softball