Is 1st base a good position in softball?
The first baseman is paid to HIT, and hit for power–that’s job #1. Beyond that, he needs to pick bad throws, be a great, large target and read throws well to get outs on every throw he can from other infielders. Good reflexes and instincts are important, as line drives scream to first base.
What is the job of the first baseman in softball?
A first baseman, abbreviated 1B, is the player on a baseball or softball team who fields the area nearest first base, the first of four bases a baserunner must touch in succession to score a run. The first baseman is responsible for the majority of plays made at that base.
Why do first baseman wear a mitt?
First basemen see a lot of action in the diamond, so they need a glove that will help them make plays and defeat the competition. This function, similar to a catcher’s mitt, gives first basemen the added protection and larger surface area with which to field, scoop and catch.
How tall is the average first baseman?
6 feet 2.5 inches
Catcher averages are around 6 feet tall, and the average weight is around 214 pounds. First basemen also tend to be a little taller, averaging 6 feet 2.5 inches (similar to pitchers), which gives them a longer reach than shorter players.
What is a good 60 time for a first baseman?
Most clubs look for times under 7.00 in the “60”. Times of 6.7 – 6.9 usually equate to an average runner on the playing field. Of course anything faster is considered above average. The universal way to scout speed on the playing field is to time hitters from home to first base.
What are the steps in first base in softball?
Steps Get a first base glove or a regular infield glove. Stand about 4-5 steps in front of the base, depending on how fast you can get back to the base. 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.
How do I get better at catching in softball?
(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.) After every pitch if there is a batter on base, run back to the base and look at the catcher to expect a throw.
How far should you be from the base in softball?
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. 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.
How do you tag up a grounder in softball?
Any time you have less than two outs and a runner on first, play even with the bag in the baseline. If a grounder is hit to you field it while trying to stay in the base path. Then reach out to tag the runner trying to advance to second and then touch first base.