How to Play First Base in Fast Pitch Softball

Last Updated: June 30, 2021

Whether you are just looking for a new position to play or you are brushing up on tips, this helpful guide will provide you with everything you need to know to play first base in a fast pitch softball league. First Base is a great position to play.

Steps

1
Get a first base glove or a regular infield glove. It would be great if it was already broken in.
2
Stand about 4-5 steps in front of the base, depending on how fast you can get back to the base. Also be around two feet from the baseline.

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3
Stand in your position, knees bent and glove in grounding position or out in front of you when the batter is in the batter's box.
4
After every hit (if the ball is not coming to you) run to the base and put your stronger foot on the white bag and reach towards the player throwing the ball at you. Catch it and that's one out. (Remember, always put the foot opposite your catching hand on the bag. This will allow you to reach further and get that good first-baseman stretch.)
5
After every pitch if there is a batter on base, run back to the base and look at the catcher to expect a throw. Once the ball is in the pitcher's hand you can return to your position.
6
Watch out for bunts. The third baseman, pitcher, and you must run up to get the ball. If you get it, throw it to first where your second baseman should be covering. If the third baseman or pitcher gets it, duck.
7
Take charge on pop flies. If you know that you can get the ball for sure, yell "I GOT IT!!!!!" loud and repeatedly. Your second baseman should back off. If you hear your second baseman yell "got it", back them up. If nobody says anything, well, that shouldn't happen.

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Community Q&A

Question

What do I do if I am playing first base and the ball is overthrown?

Community Answer

Quickly get the ball, and if you have time, throw to second base, where the runner will most likely be going, or to home if a runner is headed there. If none of these options are available, always throw it back to the pitcher.
Question

What if my coach doesn't believe in me?

Community Answer

Prove your coach wrong! Work your butt off in practice. Show him/her you want to be there and you deserve to be there.
Question

What if both 1st and 2nd base yell "got it!" at the same time?

Donagan

Top Answerer

The pitcher or coach should call the name or position of the player she thinks should catch the ball.

Warnings

Some umpires require the players to tuck in your jersey shirts. This is also for safety reasons because you could scrape up your back when you slide.

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Do not wear any jewelry. It isn't even allowed on the field. The umpire will tell you to take it off or you will not play.

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Fast pitch is a lot different than slow pitch. Not only do they pitch faster, they run harder, to the ball and to the base. The game involves sliding, diving, the throwing of large, hard balls, the swinging of metal bats, and possibly playing in hot weather. Make sure you have all the necessary safety equipment to play the game. See below.

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Things You'll Need

First base/infielder's glove
Batting helmet with face mask
Leg slider
Compression/padded shorts
Cleats.Rubber or metal, find out what is allowed. in your league. Usually it's only rubber allowed
OPTIONAL
Batting gloves
Metal fast pitch softball bat
Visor/Hat/Sunglasses (very good idea to have all three)
Sunblock
Sunflower seeds
A softball bag is incredibly useful