First Base Softball Mitt Play It Again Sports
The softball first base positioning is important and will almost always determine the success of any play around the base. The bunt play, the first out, coverage of first base on a hit or pickoff and the cut play are all central factors in the success of the defense. Knowing the lateral move reach on the backhand fielding ability and whether she is left or right handed for example will dictate the distance from the foul line that she volition play. This is of import because if a ball gets past her along the foul line, it is likely that it will plough into extra bases, unless the right fielder is great at backing up.
Softball First Base Positioning Considerations:
- the score of the game
- where the runners are on base of operations
- the forcefulness of the hitter
- the strength of the defensive player
- the betoken given to the pitcher
- the strength of the bullpen
There are some simple things that volition by and large need to be known about playing the infield which are important in making decisions on where to play. One of them is that the closer to the batter, the better the reaction fourth dimension needs to be for fielders. At the same time, the further she is abroad from the batter, the more vulnerable she is to a bunt.
On a cede bunt state of affairs, the first base player needs to be aware of the slap bunt so caution is recommended on a left handed batter. If a bunt is non anticipated and the batter is a stiff left handed hitter, playing closer to the base is recommended to allow time for reaction to the ball. Be careful not to be on the baseline between outset and second if in that location is a runner on first base. It is as well important that the first base player non be near the base or on the baseline without the ball after it is hit because many obstruction calls occur there. This is when the defensive player without possession of the ball makes contact with the runner coming from dwelling house plate
If in that location is a pickoff play existence called, playing behind the base is sometimes recommended all the same it gives the play away and it could exist piece of cake for the ball to hit the runner and deflect giving her an like shooting fish in a barrel accelerate to the next base. Positioning in forepart of the base but close, to receive the ball along the baseline is more effective. The first base role player can likewise exist a decoy while the second base player comes up to the baseline to take a throw instead, tagging the runner that is just off the base.
If the batter is ane who is very successful at hitting up the middle, the first base histrion may play more to the inside of the field to encompass the infinite left vulnerable past the second base player who has shifted over to cover more than of the eye of the field. This can leave a hole forth the baseline which makes it that much more important for the right fielder to embrace the foul line. An out tin can be accomplished at commencement past a practiced right fielder who is on a footing ball correct away.
The showtime baseman will position closer to dwelling house when:
- the infield is moisture and soft or is a grass infield
- the 2nd baseman is good at covering first
- a weaker, but fast hitter is at bat
- it is a bunt state of affairs
- a runner on third with fewer than two outs to support habitation
The get-go baseman positions farther from home when:
- a stiff, left handed pull hitter is at bat
- they will not probable be pulling to the contrary field unless the pitcher pitches exterior
- pull hitters are more often than not stronger hitters
- a slow runner is at bat
- a pitchout and pick off attempt on a runner at get-go base is chosen
- there are 2 strikes on the concoction or 2 outs (a bunt is unlikely)
- the fielder reads and responds quickly to bunts and slow rollers merely does not have a quick reaction time
It is appropriate to move right toward 2d base of operations when
- more than hits are expected up the heart of the field
- a potent, correct handed pull hitter is at bat
- a left handed late swinging or opposite field hitter is at bat
- the pitcher is slow, tiring, or throwing a alter up
- the fielder is a right handed thrower with a weak backhand catch
A shift left or toward the commencement base of operations line is recommended when
- a strong correct handed pull hitter is at bat
- in the tardily innings of a close game to guard the line against extra base hits
- the pitcher is fast and overpowering on correct handed batters
- it is harder for hitters to get around on the pitch and so will likely be late
- hitters will hitting to the opposite field
- being left handed
- there is more lateral coverage on the right side
As we know first base is a position that requires a proficient glove and an ability to read the play chop-chop. Knowing where she positions before the ball is pitched is something that takes feel and some mutual strategy knowledge. I recommend that if a histrion wants to play this position well, it is a expert idea to scout other beginning base of operations players and visualize where to play in each situation. Spend time practicing each state of affairs and talk to the coaches near the opposition.
Source: https://softballtutor.com/first-base-positioning/