Softball Tips

The goal is to score more points (runs) than the opposing team. One run is earned when a player successfully reaches all of the bases and returns back to the start (home plate) without getting out.

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Question: While running the bases, how come sometimes I can run to the next base and other times I have to run back to the base I started at? Answer: If the ball is hit in the air and caught before hitting the ground, the batter is out and every runner must return back to the base they started on. If the ball is reaches that base before the runner returns, they are out! Watch a video that demonstrates this scenario! https://youtu.be/2Gt3qR0cuyw

Question: How come some players are allowed to run to the next base even though the ball is caught? Answer: Once the ball is caught and the runner has touched their original base, they are allowed to advance to the next base at their own risk. Watch a video that demonstrates this scenario! https://youtu.be/ukZQWWAgAwQ

Question: When do I have to tag the runner? Answer: You have to tag the runner whenever it is not a force play. A force play is when a player is forced to run to the next base because there is a runner behind them. A tag is necessary when a player attempts to advance to the next base without being forced. Watch a video that demonstrates this scenario! https://youtu.be/e9xt9t2bDgs

For a complete list of softball rules, please visit our website: https://www.njplaysports.com/page/AdultSoftballLeagueRules

Left Center Right Center

Left Field Right Field

Shortstop 2nd Base

rd 3 Base 1st Base Pitcher Outfielders must start at least 10 yd behind the infield before the ball is hit. 43 ft

If a runner passes the “commitment cone”, they can rd not return to 3 base and must The bases are 60 ft apart. continue forward. Players must run counter- clockwise around the bases. Catcher Runners must touch the “safety base” and not home plate to avoid unnecessary contact.

Center

The Short Fielder: In this strategy, defensives move one outfielder closer Short Fielder than the others. This strategy Left Field 10 yd Right Field may be helpful if the batter is hitting the ball between the infield and outfielders. The Shortstop 2nd Base short fielder can position themselves more left or right depending if the hitter is rd Pitcher 1st Base lefty or righty, but they must 3 Base start 10 yards behind the infield. Your team may use this strategy the entire game or just for specific hitters.

Catcher

Center

Right Center The Shift: Left Center In this strategy, defensives overload one side of the field. Shortstop This strategy may be helpful Right Field against batters who 3rd Base consistently hit to one side of 2nd Base the field. The diagram is illustrating a shift for a lefty st hitter that consistently hits Pitcher 1 Base to the right side of the field.

Your team may use this strategy the entire game or just for specific hitters.

Catcher

Looking to improve your game? Here are some helpful tutorial videos!

Pitching Video: ***Video Link

Hitting Video: ***Video Link

Here is some advice from past Play Sports Community champions!

“When making a lineup, try to maximize your run scoring potential. Don’t’ place all of your best hitters in one group. Spread your best hitters out throughout the lineup. For example, put your best hitter in the 3rd spot and your second best hitter in the 7th spot in the lineup.” -Jim S. of the Kekambas

- Tips for fielding positions - Tips lineup - Pitching