What are the key softball terms every player and fan should know. How does understanding softball terminology enhance your appreciation of the game. Why is mastering softball lingo crucial for effective communication on the field.
The Basics of Softball Terminology
Softball, like any sport, has its own unique language that can seem confusing to newcomers. Understanding these terms is crucial for players, coaches, and fans alike. Let’s dive into some of the most important softball terminology you should know.
Fundamental Softball Terms
What is a “ball” in softball? Contrary to what you might think, it’s not just the physical object players throw and hit. In softball, a “ball” refers to a pitch that’s thrown outside the strike zone and not swung at by the batter. This is an important distinction that affects the count and can lead to a walk.
Speaking of walks, what exactly is a “base on balls”? This occurs when a batter receives four pitches outside the strike zone without swinging. As a result, they’re awarded first base. It’s also commonly referred to as a “walk”.
- Strike: A pitch that lands in the strike zone, or one that the batter swings at and misses
- Strike Zone: The area above home plate from the batter’s knees to armpits
- Count: The number of balls and strikes on a batter, expressed as “balls-strikes”
Offensive Plays and Strategies
Softball isn’t just about hitting home runs. There are various offensive strategies that teams employ to score runs and outsmart the defense.
Bunting Techniques
What is a bunt in softball? It’s a strategic offensive play where the batter chooses not to swing at the pitch. Instead, they hold the bat out and attempt to gently tap the ball into play, often to advance runners or surprise the defense.
A sacrifice bunt is a specific type of bunt. Why would a batter intentionally try to get out? The goal of a sacrifice bunt is to advance another runner into scoring position, trading an out for a better chance to score.
Base Running Strategies
How do runners navigate the bases safely? One important concept is “tagging up”. This occurs when a base runner returns to their base after a fly ball is caught. Once the ball is caught, the runner can then attempt to advance to the next base.
What does “bases loaded” mean? This exciting situation occurs when there are runners on first, second, and third base simultaneously, creating maximum pressure on the defense and potential for big scoring plays.
Defensive Positions and Plays
Defense is just as crucial as offense in softball. Let’s explore some key defensive terms and concepts.
Fielding Positions
What is a base coach in softball? These team members or coaches stand in boxes near first and third base. They play a crucial role in communicating with batters and base runners, often using hand signals to relay strategies.
Defensive Plays
What is a fielder’s choice? This occurs when a defensive player opts to get an out on one runner while allowing another runner to advance or reach base safely. It’s a strategic decision based on the game situation.
A ground out happens when a batter hits a ground ball that results in an out. This could be a throw to first base or a force out at another base.
Statistical Terms in Softball
Statistics play a huge role in softball, helping to measure player and team performance. Let’s break down some of the most important statistical terms.
Batting Statistics
What is batting average, and why is it important? Batting average is calculated by dividing the number of hits by the number of at-bats. It’s one of the most commonly used statistics to evaluate a batter’s performance. A higher batting average indicates a more successful hitter.
Pitching Statistics
How do we measure a pitcher’s effectiveness? One key statistic is the Earned Run Average (ERA). This is calculated by taking the number of earned runs a pitcher allows, dividing it by the number of innings pitched, and multiplying by the number of innings in a game. A lower ERA indicates a more effective pitcher.
Fielding Statistics
What does fielding percentage tell us about a player’s defensive skills? Fielding percentage is calculated by dividing the number of successful plays or assists by the total number of chances. While a higher percentage is generally better, it’s important to note that this statistic doesn’t account for a player’s range or ability to make difficult plays.
Advanced Softball Concepts
As players and fans deepen their understanding of softball, they encounter more complex terms and strategies.
Strategic Plays
What is an appeal play in softball? This is a unique situation where an umpire can’t make a decision until requested by a member of the non-offending team. The appeal must be made before the next pitch, and it can involve various infractions like missing a base or leaving early on a tag-up.
Equipment Terminology
What materials are softball bats made from? Modern softball bats can be constructed from a variety of materials, including metal, wood, bamboo, plastic, graphite, carbon, magnesium, fiberglass, ceramic, or other approved composite materials. Each material offers different characteristics that can affect a player’s performance.
Common Softball Scenarios
Understanding how different plays unfold is crucial for following the game. Let’s explore some common scenarios you might encounter during a softball game.
Offensive Scenarios
What happens during a pop fly? This occurs when a batter hits the ball high but not far, typically landing in the infield or shallow outfield. These can be tricky for fielders to catch due to the high angle and short distance.
Defensive Scenarios
How does an assist work in softball? An assist is a defensive statistic credited to a fielder who throws or deflects a batted or thrown ball to another fielder, resulting in an out. It’s a way of recognizing players who contribute to outs even if they don’t make the final play themselves.
The Importance of Softball Terminology
Why is it crucial to understand softball terminology? Mastering the language of softball enhances your appreciation of the game, improves communication on the field, and allows for a deeper analysis of strategies and statistics.
Enhancing Game Understanding
How does knowing softball terms improve your enjoyment of the game? By understanding the nuances of different plays and strategies, you can better appreciate the skill and decision-making involved at every level of play.
Improving On-Field Communication
Why is clear communication essential in softball? With fast-paced play and split-second decisions, using precise terminology ensures that all players and coaches are on the same page, reducing errors and improving team performance.
As we’ve explored, softball terminology encompasses a wide range of concepts, from basic rules to advanced strategies and statistical analysis. By familiarizing yourself with these terms, you’ll be better equipped to understand, discuss, and enjoy this dynamic sport. Whether you’re a player looking to improve your game, a coach aiming to communicate more effectively, or a fan wanting to deepen your appreciation, mastering softball lingo is an essential step in your softball journey.
Softball Terminology 101 – FloSoftball
Much like any other sport, softball has its own language. Some terms might be stranger than others, but this lingo is just as important to the sport as the game itself. Whether you’re a die-hard softball fan or just catch a game every once in a while, knowing these terms can help you understand the sport even more.
Ball: Yes, there is the actual softball, but a “ball” is a pitch not swung by the batter and thrown outside the strike zone.
Base Coach: Team member or coach in the first or third base coach’s box. They can send signs to the batter and base runners.
Base on Balls: Also known as a “walk”. This is when the batter gets four pitches outside the strike zone.
Bases Loaded: There are runners on first, second and third base.
Batting Average: One of the most used statistics for batters. This is calculated by taking the number of hits divided by the number of at bats. The higher the better.
Bunt: A strategic choice at the plate. Instead of choosing to swing at the pitch, the batter can choose to bunt. They square up to the pitch and hold their bat over the plate to knock the ball down, tapping it into play and slowing its velocity.
Count: Refers to how many balls and strikes the batter has. The count is given in terms of “balls – strikes” i.e. if a batter has 3 balls and 2 strikes, the count is “3 – 2”.
Earned Run Average (ERA): One of the most used statistics for pitchers. This is calculated by taking the number of earned runs a pitcher allows divided by the number of innings they pitched, then multiplied by the number of innings in a game. The lower the better.
Fielder’s Choice: When there are multiple runners on base and options for an out, the defensive player makes a choice while knowing other runners will stay safe.
Fielding Percentage: A statistic used for defensive players. This is calculated by dividing the number of plays or assists handled properly by the total number of chances. Typically, the higher the better, but this doesn’t always truly reflect the player’s range or ability.
Ground Out: An out made by defense when a batter hits a ground ball.
Pop Fly: When a batter hits a ball high and short over infield or short outfield
Sacrifice Bunt: A strategic choice at the plate. The batter intentionally bunts to advance another runner on base in scoring position.
Strike: This pitch lands in the strike zone. It is either not swung at or the batter swings and misses or fouls off.
Strike Zone: The box or area above home plate where strikes are called. The width is the same as home plate and the height ranges from the batter’s knees to their armpits.
Tag Up: When a base runner returns to the base they’re at after a fly ball is caught. Once it’s caught, the runner can choose to advance to the next base.
While these are only a couple of terms out of the softball handbook, hopefully it helps you to understand this great game a little bit better.
Softball Terminology – Softball Australia
A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | L | M | N | O | P | R | S | T | U | W
appeal play – a live or dead ball appeal play is a play about which an umpire cannot make a decision until requested by a member of the non-offending team. The appeal must be made before the next pitch, legal or illegal. If the appeal is made at the end of an inning or at the end of a game, the appeal will not be accepted if all players of the defensive team have left fair territory
assist – a defensive statistic credited to each fielder who throws or deflects a batted or thrown ball to another fielder that results in an out
backnet – the fence behind the batter’s box (the umpire stands behind the catcher with his/her back to the backnet)
ball – as called by the umpire, a pitch that does not enter the strike zone in flight and is not struck at by the batter
base – one of four points on the infield that must be touched by a runner in order to score a run. Also applies to the rubber or canvas bags comprising 1st, 2nd and 3rd base, as well as the rubber plate known as home plate
basepath – the area between each base along which the base runner must generally run
base on balls (BB) – also called a “walk”; the award of 1st base to a batter who, during his/her time at bat, receives four pitches (balls) outside the strike zone at which the batter does not swing; pitchers may also issue an intentional base on balls (walk) without throwing those four pitches, in which case the umpire is notified and he/she awards the batter 1st base
base runner – a player from the offensive team on a base or running between bases
bases loaded – referring to the offensive team when there are runners on 1st, 2nd and 3rd base
bat – is used by the batter and is made of metal, wood, bamboo, plastic, graphite, carbon, magnesium, fibreglass, ceramic or any other composite material approved by the international body. They shall not be longer than 34″ (84. 4cm) and weigh no more than 38oz (1077g)
batter-runner – a batter-runner is a player who has finished a turn at bat but has not yet been put out or touched 1st base
batter’s box – a rectangular area beside home plate where the batter must stand to hit the pitch
batting average – an offensive statistic, it is the number of safe hits divided by the number of times at-bat
batting helmet – is used by the batter and all base runners to protect themselves from any stray balls that might be thrown or pitched poorly
batting order – the official list giving the sequence in which members of the (offensive) team must come to bat
batting tee – metal support with rubber tubing on which the ball is placed to facilitate batting when live pitching is not used (used in tee-ball competitions)
blocked ball – a batted, thrown or pitched ball, that is touched, stopped or handled by a person not involved in the game, or which touches an object that is not part of the official playing equipment or official playing area
box score – the summary of a game which lists the line-up for each team, including substitute players, such offensive statistics as at-bats, runs, hits, and runs batted in. The box score also lists such defensive statistics as winning pitcher, losing pitcher, (pitcher credited with) save, errors, wild pitches, and passed balls
bullpen – the area in foul territory adjacent to the outfield where pitchers wait and warm-up during the game, except the pitcher currently being used in the game
bunt – an attempt by the batter to tap the ball with a stationary bat instead of swinging at it; the bat is lowered to the flight of the ball, parallel to the ground
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catch – a legally caught ball that occurs when a fielder catches a batted or thrown ball with their hand/s or glove
catcher – defensive player who normally positions themself behind home plate and receives pitches
catcher’s gear – protective equipment only worn by the catcher. The gear includes a facemask (with throat protector), chest protector, shin guards and a catcher’s glove. It is designed to protect them from pitched or batted balls as a pitched ball can travel up to 130km/hr
centre fielder – the defensive player positioned near the middle of the outfield
change-up – a pitch thrown deceptively slow to surprise the batter
charged defensive conference – when the fielding team request a suspension of play (‘time’) so that a member from the bench can communicate to any defensive player. Three defensive conferences are permitted across a regular seven inning game, and one per inning in extra innings. If the coach makes a substitution for the pitcher, no conference is charged. If the coach insists on an extra conference, the current pitcher is removed from the pitching position for the remainder of the game
charged offensive conference – when the batting team request a suspension of play (‘time’) to speak to any offensive team member. Only one offensive conference is permitted in any half inning. If the coach insists on another conference, the coach shall be ejected for the game
chopped ball – a ball at which the batter strikes downward with a chopping motion of the bat, so that the ball bounces high into the air
complete game – a pitcher’s statistic recorded when he/she has thrown every pitch for his/her team during a game
crow hop – the act of a pitcher who does not push off from the pitcher’s plate to deliver the ball. A crow hop occurs if the pitcher steps off from the pitcher’s plate (thereby establishing a second starting point) and then pushes off from the newly established starting point to complete the delivery. NOTE: The pitcher may leap from the pitcher’s plate, land, and with a continuous motion, deliver the ball to the plate. The pivot foot may then push off and/or follow through with this continuous action – this is NOT considered to be a crow hop
curveball – a pitch thrown with a rotation that makes the ball curve
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dead ball – a dead ball is one that:
- Touches any object that is not part of the official playing equipment or area, or a player/person not engaged in the game
- Passes out of the outer limits of the playing field
- Lodges in the umpire’s gear or an offensive player’s clothing
- The umpire has ruled dead
defensive team – the nine players in the field (pitcher, catcher, 1st, 2nd and 3rd basemen, shortstop, and left, centre and right fielders)
delayed dead ball – a game situation in which the ball remains alive until the conclusion of play. The umpire may then rule the ball dead and enforce the appropriate ruling
designated player (DP) – a player designated to bat for any starting player without otherwise affecting the status of player(s) in the game.
diamond – the area on the softball infield between the bases on each corner
double – a scoring statistic credited to a batter when he/she has hit a ball safely into fair territory and advances to 2nd base in one continuous play without the aid of defensive errors
double play – a defensive play in which two offensive players are put out as a result of a continuous action
dugout – the semi-enclosed area beside the playing field where players sit when they are not actively involved in the game
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earned run – a run for which the pitcher is held accountable
earned run average (ERA) – the number of runs charged to a pitcher averaged over innings pitched
error – a defensive statistic charged for each misplay (fumble, muff or wild throw) which permits a runner or batter-runner to advance to one or more bases without being put out
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fair ball – a ball hit into the field of play (fair territory)
fair territory – part of the playing field within and including the 1st and 3rd base foul lines, from home base to the extreme playing field fence
fastball – a pitcher’s fastest pitch
fielder – any one of the nine players of the defensive line up (pitcher, catcher, 1st, 2nd and 3rd basemen, shortstop, and left, centre and right fielders)
fielder’s choice – the act of a defensive player who handles a fair ground ball and, instead of throwing to 1st base to put out the batter-runner, throws to another base in an attempt to put out the preceding runner
fielding percentage – a defensive statistic also called fielding average, it is the sum of putouts and assists divided by the sum of putouts, assists, and errors in each fielding position played by a player
1st baseman – the defensive player in the portion of the infield near 1st base
fly ball – a ball hit in the air
flex player – the flex player is the defensive player for whom the Designated Player (DP) is batting and whose name appears in the 10th position on the line-up card
forced out – an out made on a forced runner. The fielder, while holding the ball, contacts the base or touches the ball to the base before the forced runner reaches the base
forced runner – a base runner who is forced to advance around the bases because there is another base runner or batter-runner advancing behind them
foul ball – a batted ball that:
- Settles on foul territory between home and 1st base
- Settles on foul territory between home and 3rd base
- That bounds past 1st or 3rd base on or over foul territory
- That first falls on foul territory beyond 1st or 3rd base, or
- While on or over foul territory touches the person of an umpire or player or any foreign object to the natural ground
A foul fly shall be judged according to the relative position of the ball and the foul line, including the foul pole, and not whether the infielder is on foul or fair territory at the time they touch the ball
foul lines – the two straight lines extending from home plate past the outside edges of 1st and 3rd bases to the outfield fence
foul territory – any part of the playing field that is not included in fair territory
foul tip – a batted ball that goes sharply and directly from the bat to the catcher’s hands and is legally caught. It is not a foul tip unless caught. Any foul tip that is caught is a strike and the ball is in play. It is not a catch if it is a rebound, unless the ball has first touched the catcher’s glove or hand
free runner – a base runner who is not forced to advance around the bases
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glove – is used by every fielder placed in a defensive position. They are made of leather and have a pocket which is the area between the thumb and first finger that allows for the ball to be caught
grand slam – a home run hit with a base runner on each base, thereby scoring all 4 runs.
ground ball – any ball that hits the ground
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half inning – three outs allowed to the offensive team before it must take defensive positions
hit – when a batter reaches 1st base (or any succeeding base) safely on a fair ball which settles on the ground or touches a fence before being touched by a fielder, or which clears a fence
hit batsman – also known as “hit by pitched ball” (HPB). A batter who has been hit by a legally pitched ball. The batter is awarded 1st base providing they do not swing and the pitch is not called a strike
home plate – the five-sided piece of whitened rubber that the batter stands beside while at bat and the area the pitch needs to pass over to be judged a strike
home run – the run made by a batter who makes it around all the bases and back to home plate in one play
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illegal pitch – an act by the pitcher not allowed by rule, with or without a runner on base. If there are runners on base, each advances one base. In every case the batter is credited with one ball
illegal player – a player who is taking position in the line-up (either on offense or defence) who has not been reported to the umpire
infield – the diamond-shaped area in fair territory, formed by the three bases and home plate, is normally covered by defensive players (known as infielders)
inning – an inning is completed when both teams have completed their turn at bat, with either three outs having been achieved or, if playing a special batting rule (e.g. 9th batter rule) each player in the batting line up has completed their turn at bat
intentional base on balls – a base on balls intentionally issued by the pitcher; the pitcher may notify the umpire of the desire to intentionally walk a batter, in which case four balls do not need to be thrown, and the umpire will immediately award the batter 1st base
interference – an offensive player or team member that impedes, hinders or confuses a defensive player attempting to execute a play
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leaping – the act of a pitcher, which causes them to be airborne on their initial move and push from the pitcher’s plate. This is a legal pitch, providing the original push is from the pitcher’s plate
left fielder – the defensive player in the outfield closest to the 3rd base foul line
left on base – those runners who have not scored and have not been put out but who remain on base at the time of the 3rd out in the half-inning
line drive – a ball hit sharply in a straight line roughly parallel to the ground
live ball – a ball in play
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mercy rule – see run ahead rule
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no-hitter – a pitching statistic credited when the pitcher completes a game and allows the opposing team no hits
obstruction – Obstruction is an act by a member of the defensive team that hinders or prevents a batter from swinging at a pitched ball or that impedes the progress of a runner or batter-runner running to a base
offensive team – the team that is at bat
on deck batter – (offensive player) waiting in their defined area adjacent to their bench to bat next
out – elimination of an offensive player
outfield – the area outside the diamond but still within the foul lines, covered by defensive players (outfielders)
over throw – when the ball is thrown beyond the dead ball line past either 1st or 3rd base. The ball is dead and each base-runner is awarded two bases from the last legally touched base at the time of the throw
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passed ball – a pitch that should have been held or controlled by the catcher
perfect game – a statistic credited to a pitcher when he/she completes a game and no batter on the opposing team has reached 1st base
pinch hitter – a player who bats in place of a teammate
pinch runner – a player who enters the game at a base to run for another player
pitcher – the player who throws the ball from the centre of the Softball diamond to the catcher. In Softball the pitcher throws underarm, unlike in baseball where the pitch is usually overarm
play ball – the term used by the plate umpire to indicate that play shall begin or be resumed
putout – credited to each fielder who:
- Catches a fly ball or a line drive, whether fair or foul
- Catches a thrown ball which puts out a batter or runner
- Tags out a runner when the runner is off the base to which the runner is legally entitled
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re-entry – the act of any of the starting players returning to the game after being legally or illegally substituted
right fielder – the defensive player in the outfield closest to the 1st base foul line
rise ball – a technique used by the pitcher so that the ball lifts as it reaches the batter
run – the score made by the offensive team each time a player safely reaches home plate
run batted in (RBI) – an offensive statistic credited to a batter for every run which reaches home plate because of the batter’s safe hit, sacrifice bunt, sacrifice fly, infield out or fielder’s choice; or which is forced over home plate by reason of the batter becoming a runner with the bases loaded (on a base on balls, or an award of 1st base for being touched by a pitched ball, or for interference or obstruction)
rundown – a base runner who finds themself in the basepath between the base they were on and the subsequent base that they’re trying to advance to or retreat back from in an effort to not get tagged out
run ahead rule – also called the mercy rule; if one team is losing by 15 runs after three innings, 10 runs after four innings, or 7 runs after five innings the game is ended at that point
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sacrifice bunt – an offensive statistic. A sacrifice bunt is scored when before two are out:
- The batter advances one or more runners with a bunt and is put out at 1st base or would have been put out at 1st base except for a fielding error, or
- The fielders handle a bunted ball without error in an unsuccessful attempt to put out a preceding runner
sacrifice fly – an offensive statistic scored when, before two are out, the batter hits a fly ball or a line drive which is handled by a defensive player in the outfield which:
- Is caught and a runner scores after the catch
- Is dropped and a runner scores, if in the scorer’s judgment the runner could have scored after the catch had the fly ball been caught
safe – offensive player advances without being put out and may remain on the base to which he/she advanced
safety base – also called the double base (applies to the 1st base only). The use of the double base at first base is designed to prevent collisions between the batter-runner and defensive players making a play at first base, it also allows clearer throwing lanes for defensive plays near the first base line, which keeps the batter-runner safer.
scoring position – a good position for scoring a run on most hits, referring specifically to a base runner standing on 2nd base or 3rd base
2nd baseman – the defensive player in the infield, stationed near 2nd base behind the pitcher
shortstop – a defensive player who normally positions him/herself in fair territory between 2nd base and the 3rd baseman
single – a hit that allows a batter to reach 1st base safely
slap – performed by mostly left-handed hitters, it is an attempt to hit a ground ball with a controlled short, chopping motion (rather than with a full swing). A slap is not considered a bunt
slugging percentage – a batting statistic. The total number of bases reached by safe hits, divided by the total times at bat (or total at-bats)
squeeze play – a play in which the offensive team, with a runner on 3rd base, attempts to score that runner by means of the batter contacting the ball
steal – a base runner’s successful advance from one base to the next during a pitch that is not hit
strike – a pitched ball that enters the strike zone and which the batter fails to hit, a pitched ball that the batter swings at and misses, or a pitched ball that results in a foul ball (with less than two strikes on the batter already)
strikeout – scored when: a batter is put out by a 3rd strike caught by the catcher, or a batter is put out by a 3rdstrike not caught when there is a runner on first and less than two are out
strike zone – the space over any part of home plate under the batter’s armpits and above the top of their knees when they assume a natural batting stance
substitute – any member of a team’s roster who is not listed as a starting player, or a starting player who re-enters the game
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tag – touching a base runner with the ball or with a hand or glove that is holding the ball in order to put them out when they are off base
10th batter rule – applies to some forms of slowpitch Softball. When the 10th batter in the line-up comes to bat, the umpire must notify the fielding team. Once the 10th batter has completed their turn at bat and all plays are completed, the batting side is deemed to have been retired
tie breaker – if the game is tied after seven innings the game will continue using the “International Tie-Breaker Rule”. Under this rule, each team starts the extra innings with the player due to bat last, as a base runner on 2nd base. Each subsequent inning will start the same until a winner has been determined (in timed games in some competitions the tie breaker is used when required to achieve a result, such as finals)
3rd baseman – the defensive player in the infield stationed near 3rd base
time – term used by the umpire to order the suspension of play
triple play – a continuous action play by the defence on which three offensive players are put out
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utility player – a player who may play in more than one fielding position
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walk – also called base on balls (BB). An automatic advance to 1st base for the batter after the pitcher delivers four “balls” as called by the umpire, based on their being outside the strike zone
wild pitch – a pitch so high, so low, or so wide of home plate that it cannot be handled with ordinary effort by the catcher
Softball Terms
Throughout the years, coaches, players, journalists, and broadcasters have searched for the right words to describe the game of softball. From frozen ropes to cans of corn, softball has developed its own funny little language. And unless you’ve grown up around the game, most of the common terms casually thrown around a diamond likely seem foreign to you. This is why we’ve compiled a list below of the most common softball terms to know. Learn the following words, terms, and phrases of softball, and before you know it, you’ll be fluent in dugout chatter.
Aluminum Alloy – The traditional metallic material used to create bats; however, alloy bats are now more commonly swung in baseball than softball.
At-Bat – A stat that denotes a hitter’s plate appearance. Walks, sacrifices and hit by pitches do not count towards a player’s total at-bats.
Assist – A throw from a fielder that results in a putout.
Backstop – The fence located behind home plate that serves as a barrier to keep the ball within the field of play.
Balanced – The swing weight denoting an easily controlled bat
Ball – A pitch that is ruled by the umpire to have missed the strike zone. Four balls within an at-bat result in a walk.
Base Coach – The two on-field coaches of the batting team that stand down the first and third baselines
Base on Balls (BB) – Another term for a walk
Bases Loaded – A situation where the offensive team has a runner on first, second, and third base.
Batter’s Box – The two symmetrical rectangles around home plate that hitters must be inside when they contact the ball.
Batting Average – The percentage result of a player’s hits divided by a player’s at-bats
Batting Order – The predetermined sequential alignment in which each team’s players must hit
Bullpen – A designated area for pitchers to warm-up in prior to entering the game
Bunt – A hitter will gently try to place the ball short of the infielders but beyond the catcher to advance other baserunners or attempt to reach on a base hit.
Can of Corn – An easy to catch pop-up or fly ball
Cannon – A player with a strong throwing arm
Catcher’s Interference – When the catcher impedes a hitter’s swing, the umpire will rule a dead ball and award the batter first base.
Caught Looking – The term for when a hitter strikes out without swinging at the last strike
Changeup – A pitch thrown with the same arm motion as a fastball but at a much slower speed.
Clean-Up Hitter – A batter in the fourth position of the lineup
Composite – The most commonly used materials in the construction of a softball bat. Composite bats often require brief break-in periods before reaching their full potential.
Count – The total number of balls and strikes on the current batter
Curveball – A pitch that moves downward and away from the pitcher’s arm side delivery
Designated Hitter (DH) – A player that hits in the place of a team’s pitcher
Designated Player (DP) – A player that hits in the place of any fielding player
Dirt Bag – A player that always finds a way to get their uniform dirty
Double Play – A single play that results in two outs for the fielding team
Drop Ball – A pitch that moves downward as it approaches the plate
Drop Weight – The difference between the weight of a bat and the length of a bat
Dugout – The semi-protected areas down the first and third baselines in which each team is designated to remain when not playing in the game.
Dinger – A slang term for a home run
Earned Run – A run that scores without the help of a defensive error
Earned Run Average (ERA) – A pitcher’s stat determined by the average runs allowed per seven innings pitched.
Error – A defensive miscue that allows a batter to reach and/or a runner to advance at least one base
Fastball – A pitch thrown at the fastest possible speed
Fielder’s Choice – The decision of a fielder to throw the ball to an alternative base, other than first, in an attempt to record an out.
Force Out – An out recorded simply by the defense stepping on a base
Frozen Rope – A hard-hit line drive
Foul Tip – A swing that barely alters the trajectory of the incoming pitch
Gap – The two areas of the outfield between the centerfielder and the two corner outfielders.
Gapper – A ball hit into the gap
Grand Slam – A home run with the bases loaded
Ground-Rule Double – A ruling with the ball lands in fair territory and then is deemed to be unplayable by the umpire (i.e. bounces over the fence)
Hook – Slang term used to refer to a left-handed batter
Hit – A swing that results in the hitter reaching a base safely, without the assistance of a defensive decision or miscue
Hit by Pitch (HBP) – Ruled by the umpire when a pitch hits the batter
Illegal Pitch – An act or motion by a pitcher, disallowed by an umpire, and results in one ball added to the hitter’s count.
Intentional Walk – The choice of the defensive team to issue a base on balls to the current hitter. Typically used to avoid an elite hitter or to set up a force play.
In the Hole – An offensive player due up in the lineup following the player currently on deck, two behind the current batter
Laser – A term given to an eye-popping throw across the diamond or from the outfield
Left on Base (LOB) – Base runners stranded on the bases at the end of an inning. They did not score, nor were they ruled out.
Line Drive – A hard struck ball that travels in a parallel trajectory to the ground
Mitt – Used by first basemen and catchers, a mitt does not have exterior finger stalls
Nuke – A slang term for a home run
On Deck – An offensive player due up following the current batter
Pickle – The occurrence when the defense chases after a base runner caught in-between bases
Pinch Hitter – An offensive substitution that replaces a player due up in the lineup with a teammate
Pinch Runner – An offensive substitution to replace a base runner with a teammate
Plate Appearance – A stat that records every time an offensive player finishes their at-bat, no matter the outcome
Pop-Up – A ball hit weakly into the air
Put Out – A defensive stat credited to the fielder that records the out
Rally – A string of offensive success. The term is typically used in late-game scenarios by a team that is either tied or trailing.
Ribbie – A slang term for an RBI
Rise Ball – A pitch that moves upward as it approaches the plate
Run Batted In (RBI) – An offensive stat to record the earned runs that scored due to a hitter’s plate appearance. Hitters are not awarded RBIs on runs scored if their plate appearance ended in a double play or triple play.
Rubber – The slab in which a pitcher must maintain contact throughout their entire wind-up
Sacrifice Bunt – A bunt used to advance a base runner, or multiple base runners, while the batter is then out at first
Sacrifice Fly – A struck ball caught by a fielder that then allows a runner to scores after tagging up
Slap Hitter – A batter that attempts to “chop” the ball on the ground while moving towards first base. Typically performed by left-handed hitters.
Slow Roller – A weakly hit ground ball
Steal – Base runners successfully advancing from one base to another following a pitcher’s release
Strikeout – The out that occurs when the batter records three strikes
Triple Play – A single play that results in three out for the fielding team
Umpire – The person(s) in charge of making calls on the field and governing the rules of softball
Utility Player – Someone that can play multiple defensive positions
Walk – The result of four balls in a plate appearance
Walk-Off – The most exciting play in softball. Occurs when the home team takes the lead during the final inning of the game.
Wild Pitch – A poorly thrown pitch that allows a base runner to advance
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Boom! Those are the top softball terms to know. If you have any questions or want to learn more about the game of softball, be sure to check out our Resource Guide. It’s loaded with information for players, coaches, and fans alike.
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Softball terminology
Pitchers mound | The raised area
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Batters box | Box marked with
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Force Out | When a runner
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Fly Ball/Pop Up | A ball that is
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Grounder | A ball that is
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Triple Play | A play during
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Tag Out | A base runner
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Hit | A batted ball
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Home Run | Fair ball hit
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Run | An offensive
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Strike | Term used when a
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Strike Zone |
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Strike Out: | Occurs during an
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Stolen base | A play during
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Safe: | Called when a
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Walk | Player advances
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Softball Glossary at SportSpectator.com
1- History & Object
2- The Essentials (Offense & Defense, Scoring, Etc.)
3- Field Diagram and Positions
4- Glossary of Softball Terms
Glossary
At-bat: A players turn batting while her team is on offense.
Ball: Pitch that travels outside the strike zone that the hitter does not swing at. Four balls result in a walk.
Bunt: A soft hit produced by holding the bat in a stationary position over home plate. Often used to advance a base runner.
Count: Term used to describe a batters balls and strikes during an at-bat. The number of balls is first, followed by the number of strikes. Three and two is three balls and two strikes.
Double play: A play in which the defense records two outs.
Error: Charged to a defensive player for mistakes that should have resulted in an out.
Fair: A ball that, when hit, lands between the two foul lines and stays in bounds past first or third base. A home run is also a fair ball.
Fly ball: Ball hit with a high, arcing trajectory.
Fly-out: If a ball is caught by one of the nine fielders before it bounces, the batter is out. Base runners must tag-up during a fly-out.
Force out: After a batter hits the ball, she must advance to 1st base. The defense can get her out by throwing the fielded ball to 1st base before the runner reaches the base. Additionally, other base runners must advance if they are forced by a base runner behind them.
Foul: Ball hit outside the two foul lines. Results in a strike. When a batter hits a foul ball with two strikes, the count remains the same and at bat continues, because a foul cannot cause a strikeout. A foul tip is a foul ball hit directly behind the batter.
Ground ball: Ball hit with a low trajectory that bounces on the ground in the infield.
Ground-rule double: A ball that bounces in fair territory and travels over the outfield fence. The batter is awarded 2nd base, and all other runners on base advance two bases.
Hit: A batted ball that allows a batter to safely reach base. A single (advances to 1st base), double (advances to 2nd base), triple (advances to 3rd base), and home run are all types of hits. A balls trajectory is usually a ground ball, linedrive, or fly ball.
Hit and run: Base runner advances to the next base when the pitch is released, knowing that the batter is swinging at the pitch.
Home run: Fair ball hit over the outfield fence between the two foul poles. Batter and any runners on base are awarded home plate and each scores a run.
Line drive: Ball hit with a trajectory almost parallel to the ground.
Out: The defense must create three outs, by strikeout, force-out, fly-out, or tag-out, before it can switch to offense.
Run: Scored when an offensive player safely tags home plate.
Sacrifice: A batter strategically hits the ball into an out situation to advance or score a runner. Usually a sacrifice bunt or sacrifice fly.
Safe: Called when a base runner reaches a base without getting tagged out or avoids a force out.
Stolen base: A play during which a runner advances a base when the pitcher releases the pitch.
Strike: A ball that a batter swings at and misses, hits foul, or fails to swing at that crosses the strike zone. A batter strikes out after three strikes.
Strike out: Occurs during an at-bat when a batter accumulates three strikes, at which point the at-bat ends and the player is called out.
Strike zone: The area above home plate between a batters knees and her armpits.
Tag out: A base runner that is not on a base when she is tagged by a player with the ball is out.
Tag up: A player waits for a fly ball to be caught before advancing to the next base or else the defense can throw the ball to the base that the runner was on before she can return to it and record another out.
Triple play: A play during which the defense records three outs.
Walk: Four balls from a pitcher results in the batter receiving a walk, and the batter automatically advances to 1st base. Players on successive bases who are forced to advance may move to the next base. Also called base on balls.
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150+ Common Baseball Words, Slang & Jargon
Have you ever been watching a baseball game and overheard some words or phrases that you didn’t understand? Well, we’ve put together this extensive list of some commonly used baseball terms and jargon you may come across when watching a baseball game or talking with a player, coach or baseball fan! After reading this, you’ll be able to talk baseball with the best of them!
There are a huge number of terms and phrases used in baseball to describe different aspects of the game. To help make this article a little easier to navigate, we have divided these terms into six different sections including Batting, Pitching, Fielding, Base Running, Field and overall Game terms.
Baseball Batting Terms
To start things off we will look at some commonly used terms when it comes to batting. These can be used when talking about certain statistics, situations or actions a hitter may experience while batting in a baseball game.
Ahead in the count: A term that signifies whether the batter or pitcher possesses the advantage in an at-bat.
Barrel it up: Refers to the action of hitting a pitch hard with the sweet spot of the baseball bat.
Base hit: A fair ball hit such that the batter can advance safely to a base without the aid of an error committed by the team in the field.
Base knock: Another term for hitting a single.
Bat around: When each of the nine players in the lineup makes a plate appearance during a single inning.
Bat flip: An action typically done by a batter to show off after hitting a home run. The batter will throw, or flip, their bat up in the air in celebration. Sometimes used to taunt the opposing pitcher/team.
Behind in the count: For the batter: when the count contains more strikes than balls. For the pitcher: vice versa.
Big fly: Another name for a home run.
Bleeder: A weakly hit ground ball that goes for a base hit.
Blistered: A ball that is hit extremely hard. “That ball was blistered!”
Blooper: A weakly hit fly ball that drops in for a hit; typically, between an infielder and outfielder. Also called a “bloop single.”
Bomb: Another word for a home run.
Bunt: When a batter holds the baseball bat out and tries to lightly tap the ball instead of taking a full swing at the ball. The batter might do this to advance another base runner.
Caught looking: A term used when the third strike is called on a batter without the batter trying to swing at the ball.
Checked swing: A batter checks a swing by stopping it before the bat crosses the front of home plate.
Choke up: A batter “chokes up” by sliding his hands up from the knob end of the bat to give him more control over his bat. Typically done when the batter has two strikes against them.
Cleanup batter: The fourth batter in the batting order. Usually a power hitter.
Clear the bases: When a batter drives home/scores all runners on base.
Corked bat: A bat in which cork (or possibly rubber or some other elastic material) has been inserted into the core of the wooden barrel. This is illegal to use in a baseball game.
Count: The number of balls and strikes on a batter.
Dead-red: When a batter is waiting on or expecting a fastball to be thrown. “The batter is sitting dead-red here.”
Dinger: Another name for a home run.
Don’t rub it: When a batter is hit by a pitch, a common phrase to yell at them is “don’t rub it!” referring to the place on their body where they were hit with the ball.
Double: When a batter hits the ball safely in fair play and gets to second base.
Drop a bunt down: When a batter stays in his batting stance until the last possible second before the ball gets to the plate, then quickly bunts the ball in the attempt to bunt for a base hit.
Find a gap: Also known as a “gap shot”, to get a base hit by hitting the ball in the gap between outfielders.
Find a hole: To get a base hit by hitting the ball between infielders.
Fishing: When a batter swings at a pitch that is out of the strike zone they are said to have gone “fishing” for it.
Fly ball: A baseball that is hit high into the air. Also called a “pop fly.”
Foul ball: A baseball that is hit outside the field of fair play.
Frozen rope: A hard-hit line drive.
Full count: A count of 3 balls and 2 strikes; another strike will result in a strikeout, while another ball will result in a walk.
Fungo bat: A lightweight bat with a long, skinny barrel used by coaches to hit ground balls or fly balls during practice.
Going yard: To hit a home run.
Golden sombrero: When a player strikes out four times in one game.
Golfing: Swinging at an obviously low pitch, particularly one in the dirt.
Ground ball: A baseball that is hit on the ground. Also called a “grounder.”
Hack: To take a big swing at the ball. Sometimes called a “Daddy Hack.”
Hard 90: Running hard to first base out of the batter’s box. The distance between each base is 90 feet.
Hat trick: When a player strikes out three times in one game.
Hit and run: A baseball play where the base runner begins to run when the pitch is released. It is the batter’s responsibility to hit the baseball into play or swing at the pitch to obstruct the catcher’s vision, so the runner will not get thrown out. This gives the base runner a head start.
Home run: Most commonly used when a player hits the ball over the fence in fair play; a home run is scored when the ball is hit in such a way that the batter is able to circle the bases and reach home safely in one play without any errors being committed by the defensive team in the process. A ball hit in the air fairly that hits any part of the foul pole is also a home run.
In the hole: The batter who follows the on-deck batter.
Jack: Another term for a home run.
Launch angle: The vertical angle at which the ball leaves a player’s bat after being struck.
Lead runner: The base runner closest to home plate on the base paths when more than one runner is on base.
Left on base: A baserunner is said to be left on base or stranded when the half-inning ends, and he has not scored or been put out.
Line drive: A ball that is hard-hit and appears to be hit in a straight line.
Lineup: The batting order, which also lists each player’s defensive position.
Locked up: When a batter gets a pitch in on the hands making it impossible for them to swing in an effective matter or at all, they are said to have gotten “locked up.”
Long strike: A long foul ball that is usually close to being fair, and typically, would result in a home run if it were fair.
Lumber: A wooden baseball bat.
Mendoza line: A batting average of .200; named after Mario Mendoza.
Moonshot: A towering fly ball; typically used when a player hits a home run.
O-fer: When a batter goes hitless in a game, they are said to have had an o-fer; as in the batter goes 0-3 (O for three).
On-deck: The next batter due to bat after the current batter.
Pinch hitter: A substitute batter. Commonly used in the National League when it is the pitchers turn to bat.
Pine tar: A sticky substance most commonly used by batters to improve their grip on the bat.
Rake: A term used to describe a player who hits well to all parts of the field.
Ribbie: An RBI or “run batted in” is a run scored as a result of a hit.
Shot: Another name for a home run or hard-hit ball. “That was a shot!”
Single: When a player hits the ball safely in fair play, and only gets to first base.
Slugger: A player who commonly hits with great power.
Strike: When a batter swings at a pitch but fails to hit it. When a batter does not swing at a pitch that is thrown within the strike zone. When the ball is hit foul, and the strike count is less than 2 (a batter cannot strike out on a foul ball, however he can fly out in foul territory). When a ball is bunted foul, regardless of the strike count. When the ball touches the batter as he swings at it. When the ball touches the batter in the strike zone. When the ball is a foul tip. When a batter gets 3 strikes on them, they are out.
Strike out: The throwing of three strikes in one plate appearance. This normally retires the batter and counts as one out. However, it is possible to strike out and still reach base, if the catcher drops the strikeout pitch. Seen in the scorebook as “K.”
Strike zone: The area above home plate where strikes are called. The pitch must be over home plate, above the batter’s knees, and below the middle of the torso. Commonly described as “above the knees and below the letters” (letters on the front of the batter’s jersey).
Sweet spot: A location on the barrel of the bat that is perfect for the batter to hit a ball on. Hitting a ball here will produce the most solid contact possible.
Switch-hitter: A player who can hit from both sides of the plate; left-handed and right-handed.
Tater: Another term for a home run. “Let’s go slap some taters.”
Texas Leaguer: A softly hit ball that lands fairly in the outfield usually landing just out of reach of an infielder going into shallow outfield in attempt to catch the ball.
Tied up: When a batter gets a pitch in on the hands making it impossible for them to swing, they are said to have gotten “tied up.”
Touch ’em all: Is a term sometimes used when a player hits a home run.
Triple: When a player hits the ball safely in fair play and gets to third base.
Ugly finder: A hard hit ball which hits or nearly hits someone, especially a line drive foul ball hit into a dugout.
Upper decker: A home run that lands in a stadiums upper deck of seating is referred to as “an upper deck home run” or “upper decker.”
Warning track power: What a batter hits a fly ball that is either caught on the warning track or lands just on the warning track just shy of a home run, they are said to have “warning track power.”
Wheelhouse: A hitter’s power zone is usually called their “wheelhouse”. This is where a hitter mainly prefers a pitch to be thrown in the strike zone. “That pitch was right in my wheelhouse!”
Yak: Another term for a home run.
Yiketty: Another term for a home run, made famous by Chipper Jones. Sometimes used in conjunction with Yak. “Yiketty Yak.”
Baseball Pitching Terms
Just like batting in baseball, there are many terms used to describe different aspects of pitching as well. Again, these can be used when discussing certain actions, plays or statistics you may encounter as a pitcher.
1-2-3 inning: An inning in which a pitcher faces only three batters, none of whom successfully reach base. Also called a “three up, three down” inning.
Ace: The best starting pitcher on the team, who is usually first on a pitching rotation.
Backwards K: When a batter strikes out “looking” at the strikeout pitch, and does not swing and miss, this is known as a backwards K. (K – meaning strikeout).
Balk: Any pitching motion that is against the baseball rules, resulting in any runners on base advancing one base.
Battery: The battery includes two baseball players, the pitcher and the catcher. A pitcher and catcher from the same team are known as “battery mates.”
Beaned: When a pitcher throws a pitch to hit the batter intentionally (if they do not move out of the way) is known as “beaning” a hitter. “The batter got beaned on that pitch.”
Bender: A curveball.
Blown save: A blown save (BS) is when a relief pitcher, typically the closer, who enters a game in a save situation allows the tying run to score.
Breaking ball: A pitch thrown with movement, usually sideways or downward. There are different variations of breaking balls.
Changeup: A slow pitch that is meant to look much faster. There are different variants of changeups.
Chin music: A pitch that is thrown high and inside on a batter in attempt to back them up off the plate.
Closer: A relief pitcher (closing pitcher) who is consistently used to “close” or finish a game by getting the final outs.
Curveball: A pitch that curves or breaks from a straight or expected flight path toward home plate.
Dropped third strike: A dropped third strike occurs when the catcher fails to cleanly catch a pitch which is a third strike (either because the batter swings and misses it or because the umpire calls it). The pitch is considered not cleanly caught if the ball touches the dirt before being caught, or if the ball is dropped immediately after being caught. On a dropped third strike, the strike is called (and a pitcher gets credited with a strike-out), but the umpire indicates verbally that the ball was not caught and does not call the batter out. If first base is not occupied at the time (or, with two outs, even with first base occupied), the batter can then attempt to reach first base prior to being tagged or thrown out. Given this rule, it is possible for a pitcher to record more than three strike-outs in an inning.
Fastball: The most commonly thrown pitch in baseball, it is a pitch that is meant to be thrown very fast. There are different variations of fastballs.
Framing a pitch: Refers to the positioning and or movement of the catcher’s mitt and body when he catches a pitch in the attempt to make the pitch appear as a strike to the umpire. Typically done on pitches that are slightly outside the strike zone and may be questionable for the umpire to call a strike.
Gas: Another term for a fastball. “This pitcher is throwing gas.”
Hanger: A poorly placed off-speed pitch that seems to just hang in the air, usually right down the middle of the strike zone, that can be easily hit by the batter.
Heat(er): Another term for a fastball. “This pitcher is throwing heat.” “That pitch was a heater.”
Intentional walk: When the defending team elects to walk a batter on purpose, putting him on first base instead of letting him try to hit.
Live on the corners: A pitcher is said to “live on the corners” when they are consistently making pitches on the outside or inside corners of home plate.
Meatball: When a pitcher is throwing pitches that are extremely easy to hit. “This pitcher is throwing meatballs!”
Middle reliever: A relief pitcher who is brought in typically during the middle-innings (4, 5, and 6).
No-hitter: A game in which one team does not get any hits; a rare feat for a pitcher, especially at the major league level. Also called a “no-no.”
Off-speed pitch: A pitch that is significantly slower than a given pitcher’s fastball. Typically, a curveball or changeup of some variation.
On the bump: This phrase is used when talking about a pitcher on the pitcher’s mound. “On the bump tonight is [insert pitcher’s name here].”
Paint the black: This refers to a pitcher throwing strikes that cross the zone just on the edge of the literal black border of home plate. “This pitcher is really painting the black.”
Pitch around: When the pitcher does not throw the batter a pitch near the plate to walk the batter without intentionally walking them.
Pitch out: A pitch that cannot be hit by the batter. Used to walk a batter on purpose or to try and catch a base stealer.
Punch-out: Another name for a strikeout.
Relief pitcher: A pitcher who comes in the game to relieve the starting pitcher when they become tired, suffer an injury or are letting up too many hits/runs. Also called a “reliever.”
Rubber arm: A pitcher is said to have a “rubber arm” if they can throw many pitches without tiring.
Save situation: Generally, a save situation is when a pitcher enters the game in the seventh inning or later with a lead of three runs or fewer. This is typically what the closer (closing pitcher) is brought into the game for. Also called a save opportunity.
Set-up pitcher: A relief pitcher who is consistently used immediately before the closer.
Slurve: A pitch that is a cross between a slider and a curveball.
Southpaw: A left-hand thrower; typically, used to describe a pitcher.
Stretch: The stretch is a simpler, more compact pitching position. The stretch is most commonly used when there are base runners on first or second base. Since this pitching motion takes less time, it gives the runners less time to steal bases. Some pitchers like to use the stretch all the time regardless of the base runners.
Submarine: A pitcher who throws with a severe sidearm motion, making the pitch appear to come from below the waist or even right off the ground, is said to throw “submarine.”
Take the hill: When a pitcher steps on the mound they are said to “take the hill.”
Throw ’em a chair: Most commonly used when cheering on a pitcher to strike out a batter, due to the batter going back to the dugout to sit down after striking out.
Uncle Charlie: A term sometimes used for a curveball.
Walk: When the pitcher throws four balls to a batter before throwing three strikes, the batter gets to go to first base automatically.
Windup: The windup involves a longer motion than the stretch. It has a big leg kick that is thought to give the pitch more power. The windup is used when there are no runners on base or there is only a runner on third.
Baseball Fielding Terms
There have been quite a few different terms used over the years to describe different plays or actions when it comes to fielding in baseball, some of which can be somewhat confusing when first hearing them. Therefore, we have defined these terms for you to hopefully make them a little easier to understand or use for yourself!
Around the horn: The act of infielders’ throwing the ball to each other after recording an out (if there are no runners on base).
Ate em’ up: Slang expression for the action of a batted ball that is difficult for a fielder to handle; usually resulting in an error being made.
Bad hop: A ball that bounces in front of a fielder in an unexpected way, often as a result of imperfections in the field or the spin on the ball.
Booted: Another way to say, “made an error.” Sometimes used when a player misplays a ball hit to them on the ground. Some people use the term “kicked it” in place of this.
Can of corn: A fly ball hit to a player, typically in the outfield, that is very easy for the player to catch; usually without moving at all.
Cannon: A strong throwing arm.
Cut-off man: An infielder that “cuts off” a long throw from the outfield to an important target in the infield.
Double play: A defensive baseball play that results in two outs.
Error: A mistake in fielding the baseball by the defense that allows a batter to reach base or a base runner to advance.
Flashing the leather: When a fielder makes a great play. Leather meaning the fielder’s glove.
Force play: A play in which a runner must advance when a ball is hit, thereby allowing a fielder to put the runner out by touching the approached base before the runner gets there. “Force out.”
Hole in their glove: Used to describe dropping fly balls or misplaying ground balls, usually after they hit (and seem to go through) the fielder’s glove.
Hose(d): A strong throwing arm. To throw out a base runner with a strong throw. “That player has a hose!” “That runner was hosed at third base!”
Hot corner: Another word for the third base position.
Infield fly rule: The umpire calls the batter out when (a) there are less than two outs in the inning, and (b) the batter hits a fly ball that can be caught by an infielder in fair territory, and (c) there are runners on first and second or the bases are loaded.
Infielder: A player whose position is either first base, second base, third base, or shortstop.
Lay out: When a fielder dives to make a play on a batted ball. “Lay out for it!”
Outfielder: A player whose position is either left field, center field, or right field.
Pop Time: On a pickoff attempt by a catcher, the time it takes from the pitch hitting the catcher’s mitt to the time it reaches the infielder’s glove (usually around 2 seconds).
Turn two: To execute a double play. “Hey, let’s turn two here!”
Twin killing: Another term for a double play. Or, when a team wins both games in a double-header.
Utility player: A player who can play several different positions. Also known as a “versatile player.”
Web gem: Literally refers to the webbing of a fielder’s glove. This term is used when a player makes an outstanding defensive play.
Baseball Base Running Terms
When it comes to base running, many of these terms are used mainly when discussing what happened during an earlier inning or what is happening in the current inning. They are mainly situational but can include some statistics as well.
Bases loaded: Runners on first, second, and third base.
Pinch runner: A substitute base runner.
Runners at the corners: Term used when base runners are on first and third base.
Scoring position: When a base runner is on second or third base, they are in scoring position.
Stolen base: When a baserunner successfully advances to the next base while the pitcher is delivering the ball to home plate. “Stealing”, “Steal.”
Strand(ed): When the half-inning ends, and the baserunner(s) has not scored or been put out, this is known as being “stranded on base.”
Baseball Field Terms
Unlike previous terms that we discussed, terms related to the actual baseball field are just that. They won’t be statistics or scenarios, just common terms used for certain areas on a baseball field that someone hearing them for the first time may be confused by.
Backstop: The fence/wall behind home-plate, designed to protect spectators from wild pitches or foul balls.
Bag: A base. Also, a two-bagger is a double or two-base hit and a three-bagger is a triple or three-base hit.
Batter’s box: A rectangle on either side of home plate in which the batter must be standing for fair play to resume.
Batter’s eye: A solid-colored, usually dark area beyond the center field wall of a baseball stadium, that is the visual backdrop directly in the line of sight of a baseball batter, while facing the pitcher and awaiting a pitch.
Bullpen: A designated area where pitchers can warm up before entering the game.
Bump: Another word for the pitcher’s mound.
Short porch: A baseball field with a short distance to the outfield fence. Typically, on just one side of the outfield. “Left field is a short porch!”
Warning track: The dirt area that borders the fences of a baseball field, usually in the outfield, that is used to help prevent fielders from running in to the fence at full speed. It is intended to help fielders get a feel of how close they are to the fence.
Yard: A baseball field.
Baseball Game Terms
Lastly, the terms below are mainly used when discussing aspects of a game of baseball overall. These are probably the most commonly known terms, but we thought we would highlight them for someone who may be new to the game.
Big leagues: A nickname for Major League Baseball.
Bigs: Another term for being in the Major Leagues. “Being in the bigs.”
Blue: A term commonly used by players to address an umpire, referring to the typical dark blue color of the umpire’s uniform.
Bonus baseball: When a baseball game goes to extra innings; past 9 innings of play. Sometimes called “free baseball.”
Bottom of the inning: The second half or “last half” of an inning, during which the home team bats, derived from its position in the line score.
Bush league: A style of play or specific action that is unsophisticated, unprofessional or without “class.”
Extra innings: Additional innings needed to determine a winner if a game is tied after the regulation number of innings (9 innings at the professional and collegiate level, 7 innings at the high school level). Also called “extra frames.”
Frame: Half of an inning, either top or bottom.
Goose egg: A zero on the scoreboard.
Inning: An inning consists of two halves. In each half, one team bats until three outs are made.
Out: An out occurs when the umpire rules a batter or baserunner out. When three outs are recorded in an inning, a team’s half of the inning, or their turn at batting, ends. The most common ways batters or runners are put out are by strikeouts, fly outs, tag outs, and force outs; however, there are many, somewhat rarer, ways an out can occur.
Position player: Any baseball player on the field but the pitcher.
Seventh-inning stretch: The period between the top and bottom of the seventh inning, when the fans present traditionally stand up to stretch their legs. A sing-along of the song “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” has become part of this tradition.
Slump: An extended period when a player or team is not performing well. Most commonly used when it comes to hitting; if a batter does not get a hit in X amount of games, that batter would be in slump.
The show: A nickname for Major League Baseball.
Tossed: When a player or coach is ejected from the game by an umpire, they are said to have been “tossed” out of the game. Usually a result of an argument between player/coach and an umpire.
Yips: When a player suddenly cannot hit or field correctly, typically due to over thinking things. “He has a case of the yips.”
Learn More with BaseballMonkey!
We hope you have enjoyed reading through this list of commonly used baseball terms and phrases. Now get out there and start talking some baseball! Don’t forget, you can get all the baseball gear you may need at BaseballMonkey.com!
The Last Inning (Mar. 19, 2021): We Update Our Slang Terminology & Show Clips of One Term We All Know… Bombs!
Anna Hinde of Team NC shows the definition of a well-known slang term: bombs! In today’s TLI you’ll HEAR what a bomb sounds like when the ball comes off her bat!
Get on board with Extra Inning Softball’s regular feature, The Last Inning!
We are scouring the Internet and Social Media and keeping our ears to the street for the latest going on in the softball community.
To contribute information, insights, thoughts or content ideas, email us at [email protected] and also [email protected]
Here’s our TLI for Friday, March 19, 2021 …
*****
SOFTBALL SLANG
Every once in a while even TLI needs to update out softball slang, so we reached out to the softball community for the latest terminology for …
THE EXTRA INNING SOFTBALL GLOSSARY
“Making a dollar out of 15 cents”: Scoring a home run on a bunt.
Scoring a homerun on a bunt – “making a dollar outta 15 cents”
— Dee Ma’ae (@D_maae32) March 10, 2021
“To get Megged”: When you hit a hard ground ball and it goes through the defense’s legs so fast they don’t know what happened … “The third baseman got megged!!”
To get Megged … when you hit a hard ground ball and it goes thru the defenses legs so fast they don’t know what happened.. The 3rd baseman got megged! ???
— Alivia Artanis (@AliviaArtanis) March 10, 2021
“What a Busta”: A coach who calls timeout and walks very slowly to speak to his infield and then calls time the very next pitch to change out his pitcher in a 1:20 drop dead game when you have a runner on with 1 out with 4 minutes left …
What a Busta —- A coach who calls time and walks very slowly to speak to his infield and then calls time the very next pitch to change out his pitcher in a 1:20 drop dead game when you have a runner on with 1 out with 4 minutes left……
— Woody J Ramos (@woody_ramos) March 10, 2021
“Rake”: To hit the ball really hard … “Izzy rakes.”
RAKE-to hit the ball really hard.
(Izzy rakes) ?????— Isabel “Izzy” Cruz (@IzzyCruz23) March 10, 2021
“Dongs”: Home runs.
“Oppo Taco”: Opposite field home run.
“Innies”: Infielders.
“Outies”: Outfielders.
My dad says a few, that I had to ask what they mean.
B Box, or launch pad – small plastic short fence ball fields 200′ easy to hit HRs out of
Homeruns- TMB(says it went so far you have to get a tape measure)
boss bomb(grandslam)
BRB(Babe Ruth Blast)
Oppo Taco =my favorite ??— ?? Mckaley Kohn ?? (@mckaley07_18) March 12, 2021
“Middles”: Middle infielders.
“Throwing chairs”: For a pitcher to strike out a batter.
We will be updating The Extra Inning Softball Glossary all the time, so send your softball slang terms to [email protected] or on Twitter @Los_Stuff.
BOMBS!!!
Check out this monster bomb by Anna Hinde, a 2025 C/3B for Team NC-Hinde and Charlotte High, NC.
Here’s a night bomb from Carson Shaw, a 2022 3B/1B for Carolina SC Elite-Owens and Summerville High, SC.
Another great team win! We’re back at it Friday at home. #HomeRunMindset #Classof2022 @ondecksoftball @Los_Stuff @ExtraInningSB @CoastRecruits @SoftballConnect @IHartFastpitch @ImpactRetweets @UncommittedBsb @FloSoftball @StriveSoftball @d1fastpitch2 @D1Softball pic.twitter.com/uj5upkdu2B
— Carson Shaw (@Carsonshaw2022) March 18, 2021
TFL CO-PLAYERS OF THE MONTH
Texas Riptide 07’s Khamari Hall, a 2025 P/UT, and Alissa Sneed, a 2025 CF/SS, were named the TFL co-Players of the Month for February.
Congratulations to Khamar Hall & Alisa Sneed who were both awarded TFL February Player of the Month! Read more about these two athletes at the link below!
?https://t.co/wjilsOdtn2 pic.twitter.com/Kxdlw9Ag9Z— Texas Fastpitch League (@TFLfastpitch) March 18, 2021
BTITW
Today’s Best Thing In The World is …
The Shield has been spotted in England, Singapore, Mexico and Australia to celebrate the premiere of #TheFalconAndTheWinterSoldier pic.twitter.com/fOgkX7UyCY
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) March 19, 2021
[/mepr-active]
Softball Terminology
APPEAL is the act of a representative of one team claiming that the opposing team has violated the Rules. |
Baseball Terminology
Baseball Terminology
Out (OUT) – removing the attacking players from the game during half an inning.
Base (BASE) is one of four points on the field that a runner must successively touch in order to score a point.
BASE ON BALLS – Moving a batter to first base after four inaccurate pitches.
Outfielder (OUTFIELDER) – a field player occupying a position in the outfield – the most distant from the “home” part of the field.
Runner (RUNNER) – an attacking player who has reached the 1st base and is not taken out, moving around the bases or returning to the base.
Ball (BALL) – a pitch made by a pitcher, which did not fall into the strike zone, while the batter did not transfer the bat through the “house”.
Batter (BATTER) – a player of the attacking team, who is in the batter’s zone.
WIND-UP POSITION is one of the two legal pitcher positions when serving.
Forced out (FORCE OUT) – an action in which it is possible to foul not the runner, but the base.
Forced play (FORCE PLAY) – a game when the runner after the blow is obliged to free the occupied base for the batter or other runner.
Ground ball (GROUND BALL) – a bounced ball that rolls or jumps on the ground.
Double play (DOUBLE PLAY) – double out – a game in defense, in which two players are taken out at once, and there was no error between the outs:
a) FORCE DOUBLE PLAY – a game in which both outs occur as a result of a forced play.
b) reverse forced double out (REVERSE FORCE DOUBLE PLAY) – a game in which the first out is forced, and the second is made by salting the runner or the base.
Dug out – (bench) (DUGOUT) – a place for players, substitutes and other team members.
LIVE BALL – the ball in play.
Defense (DEFENSE or DEFENSIVE) – a team occupying a position on the playing field.
The batter’s area (BATTER’S BOX) is a place marked on the field, within which the batter must be, performing actions with the bat.
Inning (INNING) – the part of the meeting, during which the teams alternately play in defense and attack. The change of teams takes place after three offensive players are out-of-bounds.
Infilder (INFIELDER) – a defensive player occupying a position in the inner playing field (“square”).
CATCHER is a fielder who takes a position behind the “home” plate.
Home team (HOME TEAM) – the team on the field of which the game is played. If the game is played on a neutral field, the home team is drawn by lot.
Line drive (LINE DRIVE) – a bounced ball going directly from the bat straight to the fielder in a straight line, without touching the ground.
Dead ball (DEAD BALL) – the ball is out of play. The game stops.
Offense – a team, one of the players of which is currently the batter.
Salting (TAG) – The action of a fielder holding the ball securely and touching the running hand with the ball or ball trap, or touching the base with any part of the body.
A point (RUN or SCORE) is earned by a player of the attacking team, who is first the batter, then the runner, if he touches successively all bases: first, second, third and “home”.
PITCHER – Any player assigned to serve the ball.
“PLAY” – the referee’s command to start the game or the command canceling the dead ball position.
PITCH – The ball thrown by the pitcher towards the house for battering. Any other throw of the ball from player to player is a pass.
Field player (FIELDER) – any player on the defending team.
RUN-DOWN – the actions of the defense team, trying to bring the runner out of bounds, located between the bases.
“Safe” (SAFE) – Judge’s announcement, meaning that the runner has taken the base.
The SET POSITION is one of two legal positions for the pitcher before serving.
SQUEEZE PLAY is a tactical technique in which the attacking team tries to bring a player from third base to the “home” and give him a point by performing a bow-type kick.
Strike (STRIKE) – legal pitcher serve, announced by the judge in the following cases:
a) the batter tries to hit the ball and misses;
b) the ball with any of its parts passes or touches any part of the strike zone;
c) the batter hits the ball into fallen territory when he has less than two strikes;
d) when trying to perform a bow kick, the ball bounces onto fal-territory;
e) the ball touches the batter when trying to hit the ball;
f) the ball touches the batter within the strike zone;
g) fal-tip.
Strike zone (STRIKE ZONE) – the space located directly above the plate of the “home”, limited in height from above – by a horizontal line passing through the armpits of the striker, and from below – by a horizontal line passing at the level of the lower edge of the knee of the striker, provided that the striker is in a normal battering stance (see illustration).
Time (TIME) – the referee’s announcement to stop the game, the ball is “dead”.
Coach (COACH) – The team member assigned to the manager’s assignments must be in team uniform.
Triple play (TRIPLE PLAY) – a successful play of the defense team, as a result of which three offensive players are taken out, provided that there were no errors between the outs.
Fal-ball (FOUL BALL) – a bounced ball that stops in fal-territory before first or third base, or that clearly moves in or over fal-territory behind first or third bases, or that touches fal-territory behind first and third bases , or who, while in or over fallen territory, has touched a referee, a player or any foreign object.A fal-ball is determined based on the position of the ball in relation to the haly lines, including the halyard, regardless of whether the player who touched the ball was in the halyard or fair territory.
If a bounced ball hits the pitcher’s plate and rolls into fall territory to first or third base, then it is a fall ball.
FOUL TERRITORY – The portion of a baseball field located on the outside of the first and third base lines up to the fence.
Fal-tip (FOUL TIP) – a blow in which the ball, having touched the bat, falls into the catcher’s trap and is legally caught by him.A ball that is not caught is not considered a fall-tip, and any ball caught remains “live” and is in play.
Fly-ball (FLY BALL) – the hit by the kicker the ball rises high in the air.
Fair ball (FAIR BALL) – a ball hit by a kicker into playing territory (fair territory), or touching the first, second or third base, or which touches fair territory beyond the first or third base, or which, while in fair territory or over it, touched a player or referee, or who, while over fair territory, went out of the playing field.
A fair ball is determined based on the position of the ball in relation to the haly lines and halyard, not whether the player who touched the ball was in fair or fair territory.
If the ball touches the ground in an infield between home and first base or between home and third base and then bounces into fall territory without touching the bases, player or referee;
or if the ball touches a player in fallen territory, it is a fal-ball. If the ball touches fair territory behind first or third base, and then bounces into fal-territory, then such a ball counts as a play (“live”) ball.
Fair Territory (FAIR TERRITORY) – part of the baseball field, bounded by the fal-lines of the first and third bases, from home to the fence of the playing field. All fallines are fair territory.
Home-run (HOME RUN) – successfully implemented hitting the ball by the hitters when the ball leaves the playing field above fair territory, as a result of which the player (and his partners at the bases) gets the right to carry out a full dash across the bases and return to the “home” …
Copper Crushers
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Inning
A unit of play in baseball, softball and other similar games
Baseball scoreboard
In baseball, softball, and similar games, inning basic unit of play, consisting of two halves or frames , [1] “top “(First half) and” bottom “(second half).In each half, one team hits until three outs are made, while the other team plays defense. [2] A complete baseball game is usually nine innings, while softball games are seven innings; although this may be shortened due to weather conditions or extended if the score is tied at the end of the scheduled inning. The use of the term inning in baseball and softball contrasts with cricket and station wagons, in which the term serves in both the singular and plural.
Gameplay
Each half starts officially when the referee announces “Play” or “Play ball”. A full inning consists of six outs, three for each team; And Major League Baseball As with most other adult leagues, a standard game consists of nine innings. In the visiting team bats in the first half, top inning, derived from the visiting team’s position on the top line of the baseball score line. In Home Team, half-time is Bottom inning, and half-time is mid- inning.If the home team leads in the middle of the final scheduled half or scores points to take the lead at the end of the last scheduled half, the game will immediately end with a home win.
In most leagues, if the score is tied after the last scheduled inning, the game continues into extra innings until the inning ends with one team ahead of the other. In Japanese baseball, however, games end if they are tied after 12 innings (or, in the postseason, a Nippon Professional Baseball game, 15 innings).In the 2011 and 2012 NPB seasons, the game also ends in a draw if the regular season play reaches its 3-hour, 30-minute limit and both teams have equal points. As with the ninth inning, the home team that scores points and comes out ahead in any extra inning wins automatically, and the inning (and the game) is considered complete at that point, regardless of the number of outs. This is commonly referred to as a “go-out” situation because the last game leaves the teams off the field because the game is over.However, away teams cannot earn a retirement victory by scoring a go-ahead in extra innings, unlike ice hockey where the team (home or away) that scores first in extra time wins automatically.
A baseball game may be shorter than the scheduled inning if interrupted by rain (or other bad weather). This game is called rain out of , often preceded by a rain delay , a pause in play during which the referees will try to determine if the weather will allow play to continue.If so, the game will simply be postponed until the rain stops and then the game will resume. Otherwise, the referees will call a round-out and play will be suspended for that day. The game may have to be completely replayed at a later date, but under certain circumstances, a game shortened due to rain may be considered an official game and the team that was in front at the time of the announcement of the game will be awarded the win. See the article on rainout (sport) for more information. [3]
Professional baseball games [4] and college baseball games are scheduled for nine innings. [5] Softball games [6] [7] and high school baseball games [8] are scheduled for seven innings, as are some minor league baseball doubleheads. [9] College games may be reduced to seven innings if one team is at least ten rounds ahead of the tally. [5] Small league games are scheduled for six innings and can be cut even further (automatic penalty) if the team has an overwhelming scoring lead. [10]
Terminology
The end of a half is called “side-stepping.” The half-time, in which all batsmen are fielded without capturing the base, is called “one-two-three halves”. The number of innings of a pitcher in a game is measured by innings broken down by statistics.
In American English, baseball terminology is sometimes found in unsportsmanlike usage in tense situations: “this is the end of the ninth [inning]” (sometimes “with two outs” is added), which means “not much time to fix it.here. “
While inning is the standard baseball term, there is at least one literary instance of innings of used in a baseball context. This occurs in Damon Runyon’s story Hattie Baseball, which refers to the seventh innings in a Phillies-Giants game.
Recommendations
See Also
Baseball and Softball Education Program Students age 7-18
MUNICIPAL BUDGETARY INSTITUTION OF ADDITIONAL EDUCATION CHILDREN AND YOUTH SPORTS SCHOOL “VODNIK”FIND
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL Branches
age of students 7-18 years
implementation period – 11 years.
Author compiled by:
trainer-teacher of the department
baseball and softball MBU DO DYUSSH “Vodnik”
Belyaev Vladimir Timofeevich
Belyaeva Natalia Evgrafievna
Nakhodka city 2015
CONTENTS
1.Explanatory note ……………………………………………… .3
2. Academic and thematic plan …………………… .. …………………… ..12
3. Control and regulatory requirements ……………………………. 14
4. Methodological support of the educational program ………… .16
4.1. Organizational and methodical instructions ……………………. … .16
4.2. Features of conducting softball and baseball classes with school-age children and the methodology for developing their physical qualities … ..17
5. Content of the educational program ………. . ……………… 21
5.1. Theoretical lessons (for all study groups) …………………… .21
5.2. General physical fitness (for all study groups) …………… 23
5.3. Special physical training (for all study groups) …… .26
5.4. The scheme of learning techniques softball / baseball … … ..27
5.5. Softball / Baseball Technique ………………………………… 28
5.6. Tactical interaction …………………………………………… 39
5.7. Basic principles of training in groups: NP, UTG …………. … … 48
5.8. Technique and tactics of playing softball / baseball in different age groups by playing positions ……………………………………………… 49 90 274
6. Outdoor games used in training sessions … … 60
7. Instructor and referee practice …………………………… … 67
8. Educational work and psychological preparation ………… 69
8.1. Educational work ……………………………………………… .69
8.2. Psychological preparation ………………………………………… 73
9.Rehabilitation means and measures ……………………… 79
10. Medical control Appendix No. 1. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …… 79
11. Softball Terminology ………………. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … .… 82
11.1. Baseball terminology … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 85
12. Protection of pupils’ vital functions …………………. 88
13. Brief description of baseball / softball. Historical reference…90
14. References ………………………………………………… 94
1.Explanatory Note
The focus of this program. The baseball and softball program for children’s and youth sports schools was compiled on the basis of regulatory documents of the Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation, the State Committee of the Russian Federation for Physical Culture and Tourism, the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, which regulate the work of sports schools, taking into account many years of advanced experience in training young athletes, the results of scientific research and advanced sports practice.
This sports education program has been prepared for sports schools that have baseball and softball departments. The program includes a normative and methodological part and covers all aspects of the educational and training process. It reveals the structure of the program, the content of its sections, recommendations and practical material for writing each of the sections. This program is aimed at acquiring knowledge, skills and abilities in the chosen sport. And also to improve sportsmanship and achieve the highest sports results in baseball and softball.
Novelty, relevance, pedagogical expediency. The relevance of the program is confirmed by the fact that the Vodnik Children’s and Youth Sports School, which have a baseball / softball department, lack methodological literature, teaching aids, sports training programs in these sports. At present, a huge experience has been accumulated in teaching children by coaches-teachers of the baseball / softball department, which is certainly reflected in the program. In this work, the general sequence of studying the program material is determined, which will allow the coaches of the Vodnik CYSS to adhere in their work to a single, strategic direction in the educational process.
The novelty of the program is that for the first time the system of training athletes in the specialization of two kinds of baseball and softball sports in our school is reflected: the construction of the educational and training process in primary training groups, in training groups.
This program is pedagogically expedient, as it reflects the principles of the organization of the educational and training process, assists instructors and coaches in improving the quality of educational and training work.
The following principles are observed in the program:
– Sequence (from simple to complex),
– Individualization:
(accounting for the level of health and physical performance),
– Psychophysiological trait of students,
– Relevance (increased interest in sports activities),
– Interdisciplinary: (connection with anatomy, physiology, psychology, biomechanics, hygiene, etc.).
Purpose and objectives of this program
Purpose of the program:
– To establish uniform principles of the organization of the educational and training process.
– To assist instructors and trainers in improving the quality of educational and training work.
-Development of a unified direction in the long-term training of athletes, providing a comprehensive solution to the problems of comprehensive physical, technical and tactical training of highly qualified athletes in the reserve and the main composition of the national team of Primorsky Krai, Russia in baseball and softball.
The material presented in the program is combined into an integral system of individual stages of long-term sports training and involves the solution of the following tasks :
• promotion of harmonious physical and mental development, all-round physical training, health promotion of athletes;
• education of persistent, strong-willed, initiative athletes, ready for work and defending the positions of national sports in the international arena;
• improvement of technology and tactics of softball and baseball, game interaction;
• training of competent instructors and referees in baseball and softball;
• preparation of reserves for the combined teams of the city, region, country;
• increasing the level of athletes’ sports results, taking into account individual characteristics and modern requirements of the game;
Based on the normative legal documents of the functioning of sports schools, the fundamental principles of building sports training and analysis, previously published programs, the following sections of the sports and recreation program were determined: educational-thematic plan; content of the educational program; methodological support of the educational program, the list of references used to create this program.This allows all trainers-teachers to give a single direction in the educational and training process, based on the goals and objectives of the above-mentioned normative documents regulating the work of sports schools.
Age of children participating in the implementation of this program.
The age of children participating in the implementation of this sports and educational program is from 7 to 18 years old. At the stage of initial training, students are accepted who want to play sports and do not have medical contraindications at the age of 7-18 years.
On a competitive basis, only those with a basic medical health group who have completed at least one year of training at the NP stage are enrolled in the educational and training stage of training, if they fulfill the requirements for GPP and TFP at the age of 13-18 years. Students who have not mastered the program of the previous stage are not allowed to the next stages. And they are transferred to the sports and recreation stage (GNP – after 2 years, UTG after 6 years).
– students who successfully passed the control standards can be transferred to a higher stage of preparation;
– students who have not met the age-appropriate control standards may be left at this stage, but not more than for a year.
Terms of implementation of this program
The program is being implemented within the framework of the Vodnik Children’s and Youth Sports School by the baseball / softball department.
The term for the implementation of this program is 11 years, while the child is studying in a comprehensive school of the Russian Federation.
The program is designed for the following stages of training:
Sports and fitness – the entire period.
Initial training – training period 1-2 years.
Educational – training period 3-6 years.
• implementation of continuity in the educational and training work of coaches of teams and athletes of different age groups and the level of sportsmanship;
• methodological guidance of educational and training work, promotion and development of children’s and youth baseball and softball in the Primorsky Territory and the Russian Federation;
• advanced training of the coaching and teaching staff.
The volume of educational work by years of study
No. | Stages of preparation | Training period | Maximum volume of U.T. work (hour / week) | Annual volume of ST. work (hour / year) |
1 | Initial Training | up to a year | 6 | 276 |
2 | Initial Training | St. of the year | 9 | 414 |
3 | Educational and training | up to 2 years | 12 | 552 |
4 | Educational and training | up to 3 years old | 16 | 736 |
5 | Educational and training | St.3 years old | 18 | 828 |
Annual curriculum, designed for 46 weeks of training sessions, and 6 weeks of training according to individual plans of students during their active rest. The number of hours and their distribution in the annual cycle by type of training depends on the educational group and the year of study, while the annual cycle of training students in sports schools is based on the calendar of the main competitions.
Forms and mode of employment
No. | Stages of preparation | Age of the student | Training period | Max. volume of work (hours / week) | Max. Time of one lesson (min./day) | Max. number of lessons per week | Annual volume of U.T. of work (hour / year) |
1 | Initial Training | 7-10 years old | up to a year | 6 | 90 | 3 | 276 |
2 | Initial Training | 7-11 years old | St.of the year | 9 | 120 | 3 | 414 |
3 | Educational and training | 10-16 years old | up to 2 years | 12 | 135 | 4 | 552 |
4 | Educational and training | 12-16 years old | up to 3 years old | 16 | 180 | 4 | 736 |
5 | Educational and training | 13-18 years old | St.3 years old | 18 | 180 | 5 | 828 |
The main forms of the educational and training process in a sports school are group, individual practical and theoretical lessons. The forms of conducting classes include: training according to individual plans, calendar competitions, educational games, friendly games, educational and training sessions in a health and sports camp, at a training camp, a master class, training, watching videos, sports programs.
Expected results and how to test them
In NP groups of 1-3 years of study, young athletes:
– improve health,
– learn the basics of baseball and softball techniques,
– will study individual and elementary team tactics of the game,
– learn the game process in accordance with the rules of the game on a small “square”,
– will receive theoretical information about medical control, hygienic support of the training process,
-will receive theoretical information about the technique, the basics of tactics and the rules of the game of baseball and softball.
In UTG 1-5 years of study young athletes :
– strengthen health and temper the body,
– to instill a strong interest in playing baseball and softball,
– will receive comprehensive physical training with the predominant development of speed and coordination of movements,
– prepare and fulfill the standards,
– master the techniques that are most often and effectively used in the game,
– Learn the basics of individual and team tactics in baseball and softball.
– will participate in competitions, master the gameplay in accordance with the rules of the game on a small “square” (up to 12 years old),
– on an adult playing field (from 13 years old),
– will fulfill the requirement of the II sports category (11-14 years old),
– will fulfill the requirement of the I sports category (13 – 16 years old),
-compliance with the CMR requirement (15-18 years),
– will study basic theoretical information about medical supervision, personal hygiene, the history of baseball and softball, the rules of the game of baseball and softball,
– possess elementary judging skills,
– will study the initial theoretical information about the methodology of physical exercises, the functions of players in defense,
– get acquainted with the tactical schemes of playing the game,
– in the process of learning, students will develop the ability to engage in independently: to perform exercises in physical training and in individual technique of using the bat and the ball.
To see the results of the achievements of each child will help:
– pedagogical supervision;
– journal of attendance of classes; -testing of an athlete; -analysis of the delivery of sports standards; – performance by an athlete of individual tasks,
– the activity of athletes at master classes; -participation in competitions.
Forms of summing up the results of the implementation of this program
The main forms of summing up the results of the implementation of this sports and educational program in baseball and softball primarily include competitions:
Group championship.Weekend tournaments. Youth Sports School Championship.
Match meetings. Championship of the city, district, region, region. All-Russian tournaments. Championship of Russia. Championships and Cups of Russia. International competitions. Judicial practice.
Requirements for the results of the implementation of the Program at each stage of sports training, the implementation of which gives rise to the transfer of a person undergoing sports training to the next stage.
In order to optimize training work, control the quality of training in the CYSS, control and control tests are carried out.In this case, the fulfillment of the individual plan and the results of performances at sports competitions must be taken into account.
Tables 1/1 and 1/2 show approximate control and translation standards for general physical and special physical training.
Types of control of general and special physical, sports-technical and tactical training, a set of control tests and control-transfer standards by years and stages of training, the timing of control
Control and transfer standards for GPP and TFP are carried out at the end of the competitive period, with the obligatory consideration of the performance of the athlete at the competition in accordance with the individual plan of sports training.
Translation standards for physical training:
Run 18m or 30m: Run from a high start. The time is recorded according to the generally accepted method (hand-held stopwatch). The best result in two attempts is taken into account.
Run 6 times 5 m each (“shuttle” run): Run from a high start. The athlete runs continuously from one specified line to another 6 times. Start and finish – at the back line. Turns to change the direction of running should be performed so that the legs of the runner at the moment of turning are completely behind the corresponding line.The best result in two attempts is taken into account.
Throwing a medicine ball weighing 1 kg: Done in a motion simulating a serve. The best of two attempts counts.
Long jump with two legs clean: Standing jump with two legs clean. The best result is counted out of three attempts.
Performing a sports category is a priority basis for enrolling in groups at the stages of sports training.
Persons who have not fulfilled the regulatory requirements of the Sports Training Program, by decision of the Coaching Council, may be given the opportunity to continue sports training at the same stage.
2. Curriculum plan
In the Vodnik CYSS, the organization of the training process is carried out during the academic year. The construction of sports training depends on the calendar of sports competitions, the periodization of sports training. The training process is carried out in accordance with the annual training plan, designed for 46 weeks. Physical activity in relation to persons undergoing sports training is assigned by the coach-teacher, taking into account the age, sex and health status of such persons and in accordance with the standards of physical training and other sports standards.
When drawing up the curriculum, it is necessary to take into account the mode of educational and training work per week, with the expectation of 46 weeks of classes directly in the conditions of a sports school and an additional 6 weeks for training in a sports and health camp and according to individual plans of students for the period of their active rest. With an increase in the total annual volume of hours, the ratio of time for different types of training changes over the years of study. From year to year, the proportion of loads on sports-technical, special physical, tactical and integral training is increasing.Gradually decreases, and then stabilizes the volume of loads aimed at RP.
Volume of educational work by years of study:
for NP groups – up to 1 year of study:
No. p / p | class content | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December | total hours | |
theoretical lessons | 17 | ||||||||||||||
1.baseball / softball history | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 4 | ||||||||||
2.hygiene, tempering, nutrition | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | |||||||||||
3.medical supervision, self-control | 1 | 1 | 2 | ||||||||||||
4. Types of athlete training | 1 | 1 | 2 | ||||||||||||
5.planning and accounting | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 4 | ||||||||||
6. Sports training methods | 1 | 1 | 2 | ||||||||||||
practical training | 259 | ||||||||||||||
1. | general physical fitness | 9 | 9 | 6 | 7 | 3 | 7 | 7 | 1 | 4 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 81 | |
2. | special physical training | 8 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 68 | |
3. | technique and tactics | 3 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 40 | |
4. | instructor practice | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 17 | ||||
5. | competitions | 7 | 5 | 10 | 7 | 7 | 10 | 3 | 49 | ||||||
6. | control conversion standards | – | – | – | – | 2 | – | – | – | 2 | – | – | – | 4 | |
total hours | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 276 |
for NP groups – 1-3 years of study.
No. p / p | class content | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December | total hours |
theoretical lessons | 28 | |||||||||||||
1.baseball / softball history | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | ||||||||
2.hygiene, tempering, nutrition | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | ||||||||
3.medical supervision, self-control | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | ||||||||||
4. Types of athlete training | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | |||||||||
5.planning and accounting | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | ||||||||
6. Sports training methods | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | ||||||||
practical training | 386 | |||||||||||||
1. | general physical fitness | 14 | 12 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 4 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 110 |
2. | special physical training | 12 | 12 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 97 |
3. | technique and tactics | 3 | 5 | 3 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 65 |
4. | instructor practice | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 35 | |||||
5. | competitions | 10 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 15 | 5 | 74 | |||||
6. | control conversion standards | – | – | – | – | 2 | – | – | – | 2 | – | – | – | 4 |
total hours | 34 | 34 | 34 | 35 | 35 | 35 | 35 | 35 | 34 | 34 | 34 | 34 | 414 |
for UTG groups up to 2 years of study
No. p / p | class content | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December | total hours |
theoretical lessons | 28 | |||||||||||||
1.baseball / softball history | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | ||||||||
2.hygiene, tempering, nutrition | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | ||||||||
3.medical supervision, self-control | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | ||||||||||
4. Types of athlete training | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | |||||||||
5.planning and accounting | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | ||||||||
6. Sports training methods | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | ||||||||
practical training | 524 | |||||||||||||
1. | general physical fitness | 19 | 14 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 10 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 133 |
2. | special physical training | 17 | 17 | 11 | 7 | 9 | 6 | 6 | 10 | 5 | 15 | 17 | 17 | 137 |
3. | technique and tactics | 5 | 10 | 3 | 10 | 5 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 15 | 9 | 7 | 106 |
4. | instructor practice | 7 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 7 | 40 | |||||
5. | competitions | 15 | 15 | 15 | 17 | 17 | 15 | 10 | 104 | |||||
6. | control conversion standards | – | – | – | – | 2 | – | – | – | 2 | – | – | – | 4 |
total hours | 46 | 46 | 46 | 46 | 46 | 46 | 46 | 46 | 46 | 46 | 46 | 46 | 552 |
for groups UTG-3 years of study.
No. p / p | class content | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December | total hours |
theoretical lessons | 30 | |||||||||||||
1.baseball / softball history | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | ||||||||
2.hygiene, tempering, nutrition | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | ||||||||
3.medical supervision, self-control | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | ||||||||||
4. Types of athlete training | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | |||||||||
5.planning and accounting | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 6 | ||||||||
6. Sports training methods | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 6 | ||||||||
practical training | 706 | |||||||||||||
1. | general physical fitness | 22 | 19 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 10 | 18 | 22 | 24 | 157 |
2. | special physical training | 22 | 22 | 11 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 10 | 5 | 20 | 22 | 22 | 164 |
3. | technique and tactics | 10 | 15 | 8 | 15 | 10 | 15 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 20 | 14 | 12 | 166 |
4. | instructor practice | 12 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 74 | |||||
5. | competitions | 20 | 20 | 20 | 22 | 22 | 20 | 15 | 139 | |||||
6. | control conversion standards | – | – | – | – | 3 | – | – | – | 3 | – | – | – | 6 |
total hours | 61 | 61 | 61 | 61 | 62 | 62 | 62 | 62 | 61 | 61 | 61 | 61 | 736 |
for UTG-4 groups – 5 years of study.
No. p / p | class content | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December | total hours |
theoretical lessons | 44 | |||||||||||||
1.baseball / softball history | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 9 | ||||||||
2.hygiene, tempering, nutrition | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 6 | ||||||||
3.medical supervision, self-control | 1 | 1 | 2 | 4 | ||||||||||
4. Types of athlete training | 4 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 8 | |||||||||
5.planning and accounting | 3 | 1 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 11 | ||||||||
6. Sports training methods | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 6 | ||||||||
practical training | 784 | |||||||||||||
1. | general physical fitness | 24 | 21 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 12 | 20 | 24 | 26 | 174 |
2. | special physical training | 24 | 24 | 13 | 9 | 11 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 7 | 22 | 24 | 24 | 187 |
3. | technique and tactics | 10 | 19 | 10 | 17 | 12 | 17 | 16 | 19 | 16 | 22 | 16 | 14 | 188 |
4. | instructor practice | 14 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 13 | 84 | |||||
5. | competitions | 22 | 22 | 22 | 24 | 22 | 20 | 17 | 149 | |||||
6. | control conversion standards | – | – | – | – | 3 | – | – | – | 3 | – | – | – | 6 |
total hours | 69 | 69 | 69 | 69 | 69 | 69 | 69 | 69 | 69 | 69 | 69 | 69 | 828 |
The total annual volume of educational and training work, starting from the educational and training stage of preparation, can be reduced by no more than 25%.
The planning of the annual training cycle should be determined by the tasks that are set in the annual cycle; patterns of development and formation of sports form; the calendar and the system of sports competitions, including the timing of the main ones.
Yearly cycle of sports training
learning stages | months | September | October | November | December | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | ||||||||
from 7 to 12 years old | annual cycle structure | period | preparatory | competitive | preparatory | ||||||||||||||||
stages | general preparatory | competitive | general preparatory | ||||||||||||||||||
main tasks by stages of preparation | improving the level of general physical training | ||||||||||||||||||||
from 13 to 18 years old | annual cycle structure | periods | preparatory | competitive | preparatory | ||||||||||||||||
stages | total prepared commodity | special training awesome | competitive | special training awesome | Maintaining the level of sports performance | ||||||||||||||||
main tasks by stages of preparation | improving the level of general physical training | increasing the level of special physical training | Education and Training Improvement | increase in the level of office | increasing the level of special physical training | Education and Training Improvement | increasing the level of special physical training |
Dostaryңyzben bөlisu:
Physical culture.Project “Softball”
Softball (English softball) is a sports team game with a ball, a kind of baseball. A softball is similar in size to a grapefruit, softer than a baseball, and has a slower flight speed. Softball is played by both men and women. There are several varieties of the game: “Fast Pitch” – “Fast Feed”, “Slow Pitch” – “Slow Feed”, “Modify – Pitch” – “Medium Feed”. The Olympic discipline from 1996 to 2008 was the fast-pitch game among women’s teams.
In many countries where baseball is widespread, softball is the preferred alternative to baseball by non-professionals and women. Differences in softball from baseball are aimed at reducing injuries and are adapted to the lower physical capabilities of athletes.
S
OFFBALL. REGULATIONS.
The trap is used to catch the ball and is worn on the left hand for right-handers and the right for left-handers. There are different forms of trap for every playing position in baseball and softball.Usually the trap is made of leather, but there are also simpler versions of various kinds of synthetic materials.
The trap is used to catch the ball and is worn on the left hand for right-handers and the right for left-handers. There are different forms of trap for every playing position in baseball and softball. Usually the trap is made of leather, but there are also simpler versions of various kinds of synthetic materials.
The bat is used to hit the ball.Bits are available in metal, ceramic, plastic and wood. Wooden bats are used only in professional leagues, due to the fact that they are less elastic and the ball loses more energy on impact, which means that it bounces off the bat weaker. Among other things, bits differ in weight and size, as well as in shape and balance. And now that you already know how to play baseball or softball, let’s move on to the rules: The playing field is formed by two halyards – lines that intersect at an angle of 90º.The field consists of 2 parts – internal and external. In the center is the pitcher’s hill. To the right and to the left of the halyard lines are the teams, in each of which 9 people participate in the game (there can be 10 in softball). The game starts with a pitcher whose task is to throw the ball so accurately and strongly so that the opponent’s hitter cannot hit it … In baseball, the ball is thrown from the top, as shown in Figure 2; in softball, the ball is thrown from the bottom.
Strike – the zone is located above the home base. The zone starts from the knee to the middle of the batter’s chest.The striker must only hit the ball that hits the strike zone, whether the ball is hit or not is determined by the head referee.
The goal of the hitter (hitter) is to choose an appropriate shot and hit the ball as far as possible into the playing field. If the ball is knocked out of bounds, it is considered a foul ball. As soon as he hit the ball in the field, he throws the bat and runs through the bases as long as he can (blue counterclockwise arrow). Each striker who runs through all four bases and returns to home base scores a point for the team.If he hits the ball so hard that it flies over the back fence of the field, then the attacker can run freely through all bases to the home base. This point is called a homerun.
On the third strike, the batter is sent out. Usually the third strike is the pitcher’s three passes into the strike zone, which the batter was unable to recapture. Even if the ball did not hit the strike zone, and the batter made an attempt to repulse, then this is also a strike.
If the striker’s throws are easy to hit, the pitcher often shoots, aiming slightly away from the strike zone to force the striker to hit bad balls, but he should not overuse such throws here, because therebecause with four unsuccessful attempts, the batter can go to 1st base without hitting the ball (free walk). The referee counts the ratio (count) between balls thrown outside the zone and strikes. The duel between the pitcher and the batter can end in three ways:
– or the batter is eliminated, because he missed the ball 3 times;
-or he can go to the 1st base, because the pitcher threw 4 balls outside the strike zone;
– or the batter kicks the ball into the field and becomes a runner.
Players move counterclockwise after hitting the ball.In addition, each runner must touch each subsequent base.
A fly out is a ball caught on the fly. In this case, the batter is brought out of touch. Base runners can only move when the defensive player catches the ball.
Force out is taking one or more players out of bounds at the same time. In this case, it is necessary for the defensive player to touch the base with the ball in the trap.
The base is occupied by a player if he managed to occupy the base before the enemy shoots him or passes the ball to the base.The referee’s command is “safe”.
If the batter manages to knock the ball out of the 1st line of defense (infielder), then he wins the 1st base and can, depending on the range of the ball, even run to the 2nd or 3rd base.
Base stealing is when a runner attempts to dash without being bounced by the kickers. But he does this at his own risk. If he succeeds, he conquers the base. In Softball, this concept may be absent.
The batter is brought out of touch by the defensive players when the base is “stolen”.
Double play is taking out 2 attacking players at once.
Where to play softball
Softball is a game that is much less traumatic and requires less physical data than baseball. That is why it is more often chosen by amateurs and girls.
Softball was introduced as a form of baseball for training in the cold season. At first (in 1887) this indoor variety was called “mashball” or “kittenball”. Much later (in the 1920s) the game separated from baseball, acquired its present name and formed rules.The bat is thinner and lighter here. He makes it from various materials – ceramics, metal, plastic, but only wooden ones are allowed in professional games. The ball has a cork or rubber core that is wrapped in yarn and wrapped in a leather sheath on top. Its size is larger than baseball and it is heavier, due to which it does not fly as fast (reduces the possibility of injury) and so far (decreases the size of the field). A trap glove is worn on the secondary hand (for right-handers on the left, for left-handers on the right); leather or synthetic materials are used for its production.
The field has a diamond shape with sides just over 25 m. There are 9 (sometimes 10) players from each team. There are several varieties of softball, they are distinguished by the speed of the ball. In
1965, the International Softball Federation (ISF) was founded. This sport was included in the program of the Olympic Games in 1996 (fast-pitch (“quick serve”) among women’s teams), but it lasted only 4 games on the list. At the moment, the IOC is again considering the candidacy of softball for inclusion in the 2020 games program.In the USSR, softball appeared only 100 years after its inception (in 1987). The tournaments were held in various cities. But the first all-Union championship was organized only in 1991 (among women). And now Russian women’s teams (Moskvich, Karusel, Zvezda and others) are known far beyond the borders of our country.
Softball as a separate sport has already taken place, but it is quite difficult for it to develop its popularity, because it does not differ much from baseball. Although many girls have realized themselves in softball.
Baseball court is a sector, the rays of which diverge at right angles, and, as it were, is divided into two zones: “ infield ” – inner field and “ outfield ” – outer field. The inner field is a square with sides equal to 27 m 45 cm. Inside the square there is a service circle from where the ball is put into play. A spectator on a baseball field sees two teams of nine players: one defending, the other attacking. But if a team of defenders acts on the field with its entire composition, then only one batter from the attacking team takes part in the game.The game begins with the defensive player, the so-called pitcher, standing in the center of the baseball field, serving the ball to the batter, the attacking team’s opponent.
The illustration shows the correct grip of the ball (weight 142-149 g, circumference 23-23.5 cm). If the receiver catches the ball and sends it back onto the field, that player throws the bat and rushes to the corner court – the base to take it. E
If this succeeds, another player from the attacking team arms with a bat, becoming the new batter.The player of the defensive team, in turn, receives the batted ball and sends it to the partners located near the bases as soon as possible so that these players can touch (shower) the attacking player with the ball, thereby preventing him from occupying the next base and removing this attacker from the game. The task of each player from the attacking team at the starting base “home” is to alternately hit the ball served by the pitcher, run around the first, second and third bases and return to the starting position in the “home”. In this case, the attacking team scores a point.The defending team, naturally, seeks to remove the battering players from the game, not giving them the opportunity to return to the “home” and earn a point. The match consists of nine intervals – innings, and in each of them the teams change roles, becoming either leading – defending or attacking. The core of the baseball game is the duel between the pitcher and the batter. It is not uncommon for a pitcher to serve the ball off the trajectory to the right or left, or to serve in such a way that the ball crosses the home base much higher or lower than expected, while also varying the speed of the ball.The batter stands next to the home base, waiting for the serve. If the pitcher serves the ball twice at high speed, then the batter is entitled to expect the next serve with a curved flight path. Instead, the pitcher changes tactics and throws the ball with less force, hoping the batter will swing the bat earlier and let the ball pass. This is a real duel where skill and ingenuity are required. It’s not hard to see that pitcher is the main figure on the baseball court. It is the pitcher who starts the game, and he often puts an end to the match.The task of the pitcher is to perform such a powerful and so cunning serve that the opponent cannot beat it off. In this case, the ball must fly in the strike zone, that is, in such a space that should not be higher than the elbow and below the knee of the batter, with the width of the zone equal to the “home” area (43 cm), which is closely monitored by the referee. Three accurate, compelling throws – and the batter from the attacking team goes out-of-bounds, giving way to another player. If, on the contrary, the pitcher makes four incorrect serves in one series, then the batter gets the right to take first base without a fight, and this game situation is called “walk” or “base on balls”.The fact is that the ball served in the hitting zone and not affected by the batter’s bat is called “ strike ”, and the ball served outside the hitting zone and not hit by the batter’s bat is called “ ball ”. If the batter swings but misses the ball, regardless of whether the ball was in the zone or not, this also counts as a strike, just like a ball bounced to the side outside the baseball court. If the batter already has two strikes on his account, the ball hit out of bounds is not considered a strike, unless the defending player succeeds in catching the ball on the fly.Then the batter is out of the game. If the ball is not caught or falls to the ground behind the sideline, the ball will be served again. After each service, the referee will announce the number of balls and strikes (say, “two balls, one strike”) so that the players can vary their tactics. A pitcher needs a good physique, strong musculature and a lot of energy in order to deliver the balls along the right trajectory at the necessary speed to carry out his highly demanding tasks. Obviously, the pitcher must be absolutely sure that it is thanks to his serves that the opposing player will be taken out.It is important for the defensive team to have a dexterous, quick-witted catcher , that is, a player who stands behind the batter on the “home” court, catches the balls he missed and returns these balls to his comrades, and sometimes he himself participates in the salting of the players. Imagine a hockey goalkeeper who is continuously fired from a patch, and you will understand what the catcher is experiencing. His mistakes are fraught with serious troubles: until the catcher picks up the flew away ball, rivals safely run from base to base, gaining precious points.In this regard, the catcher needs to anticipate which serve from his arsenal the pitcher will choose, and, having guessed this option of serving, catch the ball. Therefore, the catcher, before serving in special ways unknown to the players of the opposing team, lets the pitcher know how to act, and usually the pitcher follows this advice. Catcher, as a rule, is distinguished by the ability to catch various types of serves and throws behind the “house”, to take some punches in the field and to make accurate throws to the bases. The catcher is usually tall, providing a significant radius for receiving throws.A catcher also needs strong hands, good coordination of movements and ingenuity to quickly decide when, for example, to intercept a shot from the outside field or to which base to throw the ball after receiving a short shot (“support”). second base needs to move quickly on both sides of their position, as well as have considerable dexterity in order to make quick and accurate throws from any position. Third base also has to move quickly to catch balls that are within reach.This requires the courage to block strong, sharp hits directed into its zone with the body (if it is not possible to receive the balls in the usual way), as well as the dexterity to pick up the ball in time and send the batter at first base out of bounds. An athlete performing the duties of a short-stop (free player) occupies an important defensive position, and therefore he is characterized by speed of movement, dexterity, and accuracy of throws from various positions. This player cannot do without decisiveness and the ability to take different blows, no matter how difficult they may be, as well as without quick wits and good reaction.As for the players on the outside field, they need to accurately take the balls, while making quick jerks, they should also have the ability to predict the nature of the blow at the moment of the batter’s swing and, in turn, use a strong blow. The best of the three players on the outside field is in the center zone and actively moves, thus covering a significant part of the court. It is characterized by a willingness to quickly run in any direction to catch the ball. As for the attacking team, the attacking player, being on the “home” court, bats the ball and rushes forward to the new base.Leading players tend to intercept the attacker, and this is best achieved by catching the “candle”, ie, not letting the bounced ball land, because in this case the attacker is automatically out of the game. Having rushed to the base, that is, “having taken” it, the attacker waits for the right moment to rush to the next base, and his teammate is already running after him. However, at the next base, the attacking player can only be in the singular, which means that the attacking partners need prudence and coordination of actions, especially during dashes.At the bases, the attacker is safe, but if the defensive player reaches the ball outside the base, the attacker is out of the game. A player running to the base is eliminated from the game even if the outfield players of the defending team manage to catch a rebounded ball in the air, even if this ball is caught behind the sideline of the field. A player who has run through all four bases brings his team one point, but he can “burn out”. If this happened to three players of the attacking team, who, in baseball terminology, were out of touch, the attacking team is sent to drive, i.e.e. to play the role of protectors. And they have their own difficulties. In an environment where three or four opponents are rushing into the attack, you have to instantly decide who to grease in the first place, and not deviate from what was planned. Usually defenders try to take out the player who is closer to the “home.” I must say that baseball does not recognize anyone, and if by the end of the final, ninth, inning the teams have an equal number of points, an additional tenth is assigned, and in the case of new equilibrium – the eleventh inning and so on until one of the teams is ahead of the other, no matter how long it takes.The longest match in baseball history between the professional teams of the San Francisco Giants and the New York Mets, recorded in May 1964, lasted 7 hours and ended 8-6. The shortest match between the “New York Giants” and “Philadelphia Phyllis” in September 1919, which ended with a score of 6: 1, lasted less than an hour. And the fact that the time of the game is not limited, as, say, in football or basketball, contributes to the fun of baseball. It is also important that this is a democratic game. A basketball player needs to be tall for success, a football player needs a strong physique, but in baseball, short and tall, thin and fat, agile and slow, shone.
In the 1940s, for example, a one-armed professional played quite a long time on baseball fields.
Baseball , as noted by many experts and experts in this game, requires not only speed and strength, but also intelligence and ingenuity. Although this game is a team one, the outcome of the competition depends on the actions of individual players. The course of a fight can change dramatically due to a single serve, one intercepted ball or an unsuccessful bat swing. The eight players behind the pitcher and eight players from the batter’s team, waiting to pick up the bat, are just the background as the pitcher throws the ball at 150 km / h.The batter has only three tenths of a second to decide whether to hit or miss the ball. In other words, while baseball requires a concerted action, it is nonetheless a game of individual actions of two or three players. Baseball, in contrast to European football, is characterized by short bursts of activity and long breaks when nothing seems to be happening. As one American writer put it, the beauty of baseball is balanced between action and pause. This is one of its main attractions.The breaks between innings give rest after turbulent experiences, they are pleasant and calm. There is a well-established tradition known as the seventh inning warm-up, where fans get up and stretch while the teams switch places during this time. Baseball time depends a lot on the pitcher. People who like it when something depends on them often become pitchers. “Nothing can happen,” boasted one pitcher, “until I hit the ball.” The catcher quickly shows the pitcher with his free hand which serve to serve – strong, sliding, or completely unexpected.The catcher’s finger, facing inward, outward, up, down, makes it clear how to throw the ball in relation to the base; in turn, a good batter predicts the trajectory of the ball when it flies out of the pitcher’s hand, and, deciphering the flight, estimates the position of the players in the inner field in the fraction of a second it takes for the ball to reach him. Judging baseball games is no easier than playing, and maybe harder. Indeed, only in baseball, the judge has the right to take a break after controversial moments to check the rules, think a little and then announce his decision.The dramatic game of baseball does not stop until the last minute, as long as there is any hope for a turn of events. One of the best catchers Yogi Berra once uttered a phrase that became a saying in baseball: “It’s not over until it’s over.”
Baseball is a team sport played on a dedicated field with a bat and ball. The game is divided into several periods called innings. Each serve consists of two parts, upper and lower, during which the teams are alternately divided into striker and defender.Points are gained by hitting a twisted ball with a bat, after which you need to run through the bases on the field and return to the starting position. If the defenders catch the ball before the runner finishes running, the runner is eliminated. After three outs, the teams switch places.
Professional players and varsity teams play nine innings each, the rest play 6-7 innings.
The defending team is on the field with its entire composition.Forwards have only one player on the field. During the game, up to 4 players can play for the attacking team, but only 1 batter must be present on the field. The rest are at the bases to complete the run and score points.
There are 3 bases on the field, in each corner of the field. Bases are needed to gain points. The player who hit the ball can run to base and pass the baton to another player.
The baseball field consists of two parts: the inside (infield) and the outside.Infield is the center of action. It is divided into 4 bases that form a square among themselves. The corridors between the bases are usually earthen rather than grass. Inside the square there is a grass covering, in the middle of which there is a pitcher’s slide.
The batter stands on first base, called home base, and waits for an opponent to throw the ball. The home base is the pentagon that defines the batter’s location. Behind the home base is the area for the catcher, who must catch the ball if the batter misses.
While conventional bases are quadrangular, the home base is a pentagon made from bleached rubber so it is easier to distinguish. In addition, usually the home base is fenced off with a high fence to prevent the ball from hitting spectators.
Numbering of bases goes counterclockwise: first, second, third. Second base is in a straight line from home base over the pitcher’s slide.
Borders are defined by white lines.
According to the established rules, the distance between the bases is 27 meters, and the distance between the home base and the pitcher’s slide is 18.5 m.
The large grass cover that lies outside the earthen corridors is called the outside field. It is not separated from the internal field by any markings. There are several defensive players – right, center and left – who are trying to catch a ball that has flown a long distance.
Each team consists of 9 players, each of whom occupies a certain position in defense. During the attack, the players take turns hitting the balls. Once the ball is hit, the player runs counterclockwise through all bases to complete the circle and score points. The defensive team tries to catch the ball and touch the opposing player with it. Defensive positions:
The pitcher throws the ball to the batsman. The ball must be thrown at a certain level and towards home base for the throw to be counted.The task of the pitcher is to throw the ball so that it is more difficult for the opponent to hit it.
Catcher crouches behind home base, wearing heavy protective gear and special gloves to catch a hit. The catcher can also pick up the ball and send it into play if the ball falls nearby.
Defender at first base. He must be good at catching balls. If the defender at first base catches the ball, it will be nearly impossible for the opponent to avoid the touchdown.
Defender at Second Base.In addition to touching the opponent, he also catches balls, preventing them from rolling outside the inner field.