How to Play First Base

Some of the biggest sluggers in the major leagues play first base. From past legends like Lou Gehrig to current stars like Mark McGwire, here's how a first baseman plays out on the field.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Baseball glove

1. Position yourself as far from the base and baseline as possible, allowing enough time to get in position to receive every throw and field every hit.

2. Take a step closer to first base if you're right-handed, and play closer to the first baseline in the late innings of close games or with left-handed batters.

3. "Hold the runner" when a player on first is a threat to steal. Begin each play with your left foot on the inside of the base and prepare to pick off throws from the pitcher.

4. Move toward the standard first base position as the pitch is being released, and try not to interfere with the runner.

5. Charge toward home plate as the pitch is released to field a bunt when a base runner is on first. Immediately throw to second base if the throw is going to beat the runner coming from first. Otherwise, throw to the second baseman, who should have run to cover first base.

6. Position yourself on the edge of the infield grass (even farther inward on a nongrass field), field the ball and throw home if there are less than two outs, a runner is on third base and the manager has called the "in."

7. Try to block the path of a ground ball and stop its progress - because grounders can reach a first baseman quickly, catching it isn't always necessary. Then throw to your target.

8. Keep in mind that in amateur baseball, the second baseman usually covers first base. At higher levels, the pitcher covers first. Lead either one to the base by timing the throw so that the target player can catch the ball and make the out simultaneously.

9. Raise your glove to signal the second baseman or pitcher to clear your path to first if you have time to beat the batter to the base yourself.

10. Cover first base on balls hit to or near other infielders. Find the inside of the base with your left foot and keep your eyes on the incoming ball. Then stretch your body toward the fielder who will make the throw, bend your right knee and provide a target with your outstretched arm. As the ball hits your glove, move quickly off the base toward the infield.

Tips & Warnings

• Go for any ball you might be able to reach. The catcher and pitcher will yield to you on pop-up fly balls. Try not to cut off the second baseman who calls for balls landing between first and second base.
• Cover first base on any ball hit halfway between first and second base.
• Yield to the right fielder on any fly ball heading toward right field, since right fielders can keep the ball in front of them when running to make the catch.
• Knocking the ball down with your glove or your body often results in a chance to throw out the batter.
• While anyone can play first base, left-handed and tall players have significant advantages. Speed and strength are not required to play the position, but agility, hand-eye coordination and foot-eye coordination are critical.
• If you have any condition that would impair or limit your ability to engage in physical activity, please consult a physician before attempting this activity. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

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on 8/8/2006 When there is a bunt, and the catcher fields it in front of the base, yell "Inside!" This way, he knows that you are squared up to him. If the catcher mishandles the ball and it rolls behind the plate, then yell "Outside!" Again, have your body squared to the catcher.

on 8/8/2006 On a high fly ball or a pop- up, always keep your body in front of the ball. Try to line up your body right behind the ball. If the ball happens to ricochet off your glove, you can recover and catch the rebound.

on 8/4/2006 Make sure you stretch toward the fielder that is throwing the ball to you. Stretching will cut down on the air time of the ball and give you a few hundredths of a second advantage - which could be very useful in tight situations. Also, when the ball is coming in low don't wait for the short hop, try to stretch and catch the ball before it hits the ground if possible. Don't stretch too far however, you want to make sure you keep one foot on the base.

on 3/29/2006 When a ball is hit to the right side of the outfield, and the play is at the plate, the first basemen usually becomes the cut-off. Stand somewhere inside the grass around the pitchers mound, try to be aligned with the plate.

on 3/22/2006 When you are fielding a ground ball, make sure you keep it in front of you. Even if that means to get on one knee and let it hit you in the chest. You have plenty of time to pick up a ground ball that hits off your chest and either run to the bag or flip the ball to the pitcher covering first. Whatever you do- don't let the ball get past you!