-
Step 1
Know that the part of the field where the bases and base path are is called the infield. Everything beyond the bath path is the outfield.
-
Step 2
In the center of the infield is a bump of earth called the mound and a white rectangle called the pitching rubber. The pitcher stands on the pitching rubber and throws the ball toward home plate.
-
Step 3
There are essentially two kinds of pitchers: Starters begin the game and generally throw several innings. Relievers come in later in the game. Some can be used for as little as one batter. The closer is a relief pitcher who is in charge of finishing the game. You may also hear the term set-up man, which refers to the pitcher who throws immediately before the closer.
-
Step 4
The catcher crouches behind home plate and catches the ball thrown by the pitcher. He often is in charge of calling which pitch to throw.
-
Step 5
The first, second and third basemen play near the corresponding bases, which are numbered going counterclockwise around the infield. The second baseman plays between second base and first base.
-
Step 6
The shortstop plays between second base and third base. He is generally considered to be the most important defensive player because he will field the most hit balls.
-
Step 7
The outfielders are labeled right, center or left according to where they play. One of the most important aspects of being an outfielder is a strong arm.
-
Step 8
Each of the defensive field positions are numbered with 1 being the pitcher, 2 the catcher, 3 first baseman, 4 second baseman, 5 third baseman, 6 shortstop, 7 left fielder, 8 center fielder and 9 right fielder. When you hear the term 6-4-3 double play, it means that the shortstop fielded the ball, threw the ball to the second baseman to force and out and the second baseman then threw to the first baseman for another out.
-
Step 9
The only offensive positions are the batter and any runners who may have already made it to a base.
-
Step 10
The batting lineup, or order in which a team bats, generally puts the strongest batters first and the weaker batters later. The first batter, also called the leadoff batter, is generally a player with a strong batting average who is quick. The quickness might allow him to steal bases. The fourth batter, also called the cleanup batter, is generally the team’s most powerful batter because if the first three hitters reach base, the fourth batter has the opportunity to hit a grand slam, which is a home run when the bases are loaded. If the pitcher also must bat, as in the National League, he is generally the ninth batter.
-
Step 11
In the American League, there is a 10th player called the designated hitter. This person bats instead of the pitcher. The position is designed to improve offenses and protect pitchers from injuries. Designated hitters often bat fourth in the lineup.
