Rules and Regulations of Fastpitch Softball

The sport of fastpitch softball is a variation of standard baseball, with the same basic objectives, format and strategies. The biggest visible difference is in the type of ball used for both sports. Fastpitch softball uses a larger, softer ball than the one used in baseball. Softball also has its own set of rules that set it apart from standard baseball.

  1. Roster Rules

    • Fastpitch softball teams must have no fewer than nine players in order to compete in most league games. While casual gatherings may permit fewer players, league rules require each team to be able to have fielders at all nine positions over the course of the game. Teams with fewer than nine players will be forced to forfeit the game. Batting orders must be submitted to the coach or captain of the opposing team, and reviewed by the umpire. The batting order on the sheet must match the one used by the team during the game. If it does not, the player at bat is automatically called out.

    Pitching Rules

    • Fastpitch softball pitchers must follow a specific delivery motion in order for their pitches to be considered legal. The pitch must be delivered using a "windmill" delivery, bringing the pitching arm through one complete clockwise motion for right-handed pitchers, and a counterclockwise motion for left-handed throwers. The ball is then released toward home plate at the conclusion of the windmill delivery. Overhand and sidearm throws are prohibited, and the windmill motion must be fluid and continuous. Any violation of the rule results in a ball being called on the batter. Additionally, the pitcher must begin the pitching motion with at least one foot on the pitching rubber.

    Base Running Rules

    • Runners must remain on their bases until the pitch has left the pitcher's hand. Leadoffs are prohibited, and will result in the runner being called out. Players are permitted to attempt to steal bases. A runner may not proceed to the next base on a fly ball out until he has returned to the base where he started. If a base runner passes a teammate while running the bases, he is called out, though his teammate is not. Runners are encouraged to take the straightest path to each base. The umpire has the right to call a runner out if he runs too far off the base path.

    Scoring Rules

    • A regulation fastpitch softball game runs seven full innings. The team ahead at the end of the seven innings is declared the winner. If the team batting last is winning after the other team has completed its seventh at-bat, that team does not get to bat in the bottom of the inning. In the event that two teams are tied after regulation, the game continues one inning at a time. The first team to outscore the opposition in a given extra inning will earn the victory.