How to Be a Solid First Baseman for Fastpitch Softball

Get a big glove., Don't ever turn your back on the ball., Put your throwing side foot on the inside corner of the base., Don't stretch too soon., Don't use two hands when stretching., If you have to come off the base to catch the ball, try to sweep...

29 Steps 1 min read Advanced

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 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.

Step 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. , This allows you to get the maximum stretch. , Stretch only when you know where the ball is going. , This will cause your foot on the base to come off. ,, This will make it easier to throw the ball quickly and avoid getting stepped on. , This is your fielding position. ,, Your second baseman should cover first when you are getting the ball. , You could be getting a throw from the second baseman or right-fielder. ,, If the ball is hit, play the ball. , Giving your catcher a lower target makes the tag a little quicker. , Make sure your tag is sweeping dirt; if it isn't, the runner can get her hand under your tag. ,, You might have to throw across the field if they are running. , Make a quick sweep tag and get off the bag. , Watch as they get up for their hand to come off the base then tag them quickly.

Step 3: Put your throwing side foot on the inside corner of the base.

Step 4: Don't stretch too soon.

Step 5: Don't use two hands when stretching.

Step 6: If you have to come off the base to catch the ball

Step 7: try to sweep the runner as they are running by.

Step 8: Pop off the base after you catch the ball.

Step 9: Start on the corner of the base

Step 10: then take three steps diagonally in towards the pitcher.

Step 11: When the pitcher begins her windup

Step 12: get your glove in the dirt.

Step 13: Don't be afraid to go for balls to your sides.

Step 14: If you can't reach the ball

Step 15: get back to your base.

Step 16: Have your starting position a little closer to the base then when no runners are on

Step 17: maybe two steps diagonally instead of three.

Step 18: Make sure the ball is not hit before moving back to the base.

Step 19: When covering

Step 20: straddle the corners of the base and get low.

Step 21: Catch and sweep at the same time.

Step 22: Don't worry about getting dirt in the other players eyes or mouth

Step 23: it happens.

Step 24: If another runner is on base

Step 25: tag and then get up quickly and find the runner.

Step 26: Sell it

Step 27: don't wait for the umpire to make the call.

Step 28: If the runner is safe

Step 29: take a step away and hold onto the ball.

Detailed Guide