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Three Parts:Covering the BasePlaying the PositionPickoffs

In this article, you'll be taken through the steps to becoming a first string first baseman. Above all, make sure you practice catching the ball, and getting comfortable with runners running at you before trying out first base.

Part 1 of 3: Covering the Base

  1. 1
    Get a big glove. You can either get a large glove or a first base mitt. The size will help you grab balls that are not thrown directly at you.
  2. 2
    Don't ever turn your back on the ball. When going back to the bag, take a quick peek over your shoulder to see where it is, then watch the ball.
  3. 3
    Put your throwing side foot on the inside corner of the base. This allows you to get the maximum stretch.
  4. 4
    Don't stretch too soon. Stretch only when you know where the ball is going.
  5. 5
    Don't use two hands when stretching. This will cause your foot on the base to come off.
  6. 6
    If you have to come off the base to catch the ball, try and sweep the runner as they are running by.
  7. 7
    Pop off the base after you catch the ball. This will make it easier to throw the ball quickly and avoid getting stepped on.

Part 2 of 3: Playing the Position

  1. 1
    Start on the corner of the base, then take three steps diagonally in towards the pitcher. This is your fielding position.
  2. 2
    When the pitcher begins her windup, get your glove in the dirt.
  3. 3
    Don't be afraid to go for balls to your sides. Your second baseman should cover first when you are getting the ball.
  4. 4
    If you can't reach the ball, get back to your base. You could be getting a throw from the second baseman or right-fielder.

Part 3 of 3: Pickoffs

  1. 1
    Have your starting position a little closer to the base then when no runners are on, maybe two steps diagonally instead of three.
  2. 2
    Make sure the ball is not hit before moving back to the base. If the ball is hit, play the ball.
  3. 3
    When covering, straddle the corners of the base and get low. Giving your catcher a lower target makes the tag a little quicker.
  4. 4
    Catch and sweep at the same time. Make sure your tag is sweeping dirt; if it isn't, the runner can get her hand under your tag.
  5. 5
    Don't worry about getting dirt in the other players eyes or mouth, it happens.
  6. 6
    If another runner is on base, tag and then get up quickly and find the runner. You might have to throw across the field if they are running.
  7. 7
    Sell it, don't wait for the umpire to make the call. Make a quick sweep tag and get off the bag.
  8. 8
    If the runner is safe, take a step away and hold onto the ball. Watch as they get up for their hand to come off the base then tag them quickly.

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Tips

  • When stretching, don't bend your front knee; you can stretch further with it straightened.
  • Stretch your legs, and especially your groin, before every game.
  • Always keep your eyes on the ball; this will reduce the chances of you getting hit in the face.
  • If the ball goes down, so do you.
  • Don't watch the runner––your team should tell you if she is going for the next base.

Warnings

  • If you don't stretch properly before playing, you are likely to pull a muscle.


Article Info

Categories: Softball

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