Baseball and Softball Draft
Bat-and-ball team sports where players score by hitting a ball and running around four bases. Softball uses a larger ball and underhand pitching.
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How to start
What you need
- Glove sized for your age
- Bat approved for your league
- Helmet when batting
- Cleats and comfortable team clothes
Typical cost
A glove costs $30 to $120, bat $30 to $150, cleats $30 to $80; rec leagues often $75 to $200 per season (approximate, varies by city).
Where to play
Community diamonds, youth leagues, adult rec leagues, school fields and batting cages.
Rules
- Teams alternate between batting and fielding.
- A batter gets three strikes before being out.
- Four balls is a walk to first base.
- A runner is out if tagged or forced out before reaching a base.
- Three outs end a half-inning.
- A game is typically seven innings in softball, nine in baseball.
- A home run scores when the ball goes over the fence in fair territory.
- The team with the most runs wins.
Drills
Soft toss 10 min
Have a partner toss balls from the side while you hit into a net.
Throwing mechanics 10 min
Play catch, stepping toward the target with a relaxed arm.
Ground ball fielding 10 min
Practice fielding grounders with glove low and eyes on the ball.
Base running 6 min
Run to first with a good turn at the bag.
Fly ball catching 8 min
Track high fly balls and catch with two hands.
Etiquette
- Cheer for teammates and respect umpires.
- Shake hands after games.
- Stay out of dugout fights and unsportsmanlike behavior.
Safety
- Wear a helmet when batting or running bases.
- Warm up your arm before throwing hard.
- Follow pitch count rules for youth pitchers.
Levels
- 1Learning to catch, throw and hit.
- 2Plays recreational games.
- 3Understands positions and rules; hits regularly.
- 4Strong in several skills; plays competitive leagues.
- 5Plays high school, college or travel team at a high level.
Questions
What's the difference between baseball and softball?
Softball uses a larger ball, a smaller field and underhand pitching.
Do I need a team?
You can practice alone with a wall or batting cage but leagues are better.
Is it safe?
With helmets and good coaching, yes.
Draft guide: written from general knowledge and not yet checked by someone who plays baseball and softball. Costs are approximate and vary by city. Check with a coach or doctor before starting anything new.