Anyone that is interested in learning to play baseball must first obtain some basic knowledge about the game. This information should include knowledge of the positions, the equipment needed, and basic concepts of the game. With this knowledge, a potential player can be ready to learn more of the technical and tactical skills of baseball.
The Positions
There are nine positions that can be found at all levels of play. The positions in order are
1. P-Pitcher
2. C-Catcher
3. 1B-First Baseman
4. 2B-Second Baseman
5. 3B-Third Baseman
6. SS-Shortstop
7. LF-Leftfielder
8. CF-Centerfielder
9. RF-Rightfielder
The pitcher and catcher are considered the battery. The first baseman, second baseman, third baseman, and shortstop are all infielders. The leftfielder, centerfielder, and outfielder are all outfielders. Also, depending on the age level and league, a player can be a designated hitter (DH) or an extra hitter (EH)
Equipment
Besides the need of a baseball, there are other equipment needs. Defensively, every player should have their own glove. As players get older they will learn that each position has a glove type that is more specific to the position. Pitchers usually use a glove that is between 12-12.5 inches. Catchers and first baseman have gloves specifically designed for them which are called a catcher’s mitt and a first base mitt respectively. In addition to their glove, catchers wear catcher’s equipment which includes a face mask, chest protector, and leg guards. The other three infield positions usually use gloves that are smaller than 12 inches in order to have quicker ball exchange. Outfielders usually use gloves that are larger than 12 inches for extended reach.
There is also equipment that is needed for offense. This equipment includes a bat which is used to hit the ball. While hitting, batters are required to wear batting helmets for protection.
Basic Concepts of the Game
The game is broke down into innings with each team playing half of the inning on offense and the other half on defense. The objective on offense is to get as many runs each inning before the defense can get three outs. On the other hand the defense wants to get three outs without the offensive team scoring a run. Every game has a home team and an away team. The away team is always on offense first with home team on defense. This gives the home team the last opportunity to score.
Players should also learn the strike zone which is the area over the plate in which a pitch must pass through in order to be a strike provided the batter does not swing. Every pitch is a ball, a strike, or a foul. If the pitch is a foul, it is counted as a strike, unless the hitter already has two strikes. After four balls, the hitter has earned a walk. Three strikes are considered a strike out.
Learning to play baseball is no easy task and is not something that can be done in a day, week, month, or even a year. Having a basic understanding of the positions, the equipment needed, and basic concepts of the game will put a player in position to further learn how to play baseball. After obtaining this foundation, a potential player can learn the technical and tactical skills of the sport. Technical skills include throwing, catching, fielding, pitching, hitting, and baserunning. Tactical skills include defensive positioning, pre-pitch routines, position specific skill work, bunting and stealing bases. Furthermore, to learn to play baseball players should practice, watch, and read about it as well.
