Softball Game Rules & Violations

The game of softball is full of rules and regulations that separate it from a standard game of baseball. The rules differ slightly according to the type of softball being played, with fastpitch and slow pitch the two most commonly played styles. Coed softball also features its own special rules section. Learning the ins and outs of softball regulations will keep players from repeatedly committing violations that could cost their team the game.

  1. Roster and Lineups

    • Softball rosters must contain a minimum of nine players, one for each position on the field. Though some recreational softball leagues will allow players to proceed with eight, most organizations forbid it. If a team cannot field enough players in time for the game to start, that team must forfeit the game to its opponent. Coed rosters must feature a minimum number of female players, an amount usually determined by the league prior to the start of the season or tournament. Unlike baseball, each softball player on a given team is permitted to bat. The batting order created must match the one given to the opposing team and the umpire. If a batter comes to the plate out of order, she is automatically out.

    Pitching

    • The rules vary dramatically between fastpitch and slow pitch. In fastpitch, the pitcher must complete a windmill throw (with the arm making a complete circle) in order for the pitch to be considered legal. Slingshot pitches, in which the arm curls back behind the pitcher and is slung back into a pitching position, are violations and will not count. Slow pitch tosses must be made with a fluid underhand motion, and must reach a minimum height established by the league or tournament organizer. In both cases, pitchers must catch the return throw from the catcher away from the pitching rubber.

    Base Running

    • Softball leagues usually employ a double base at first, with the white portion in fair territory and a colored section on the other side of the base line. Players must touch the colored base when running from home to first base, or they will be called out. A base runner cannot leave his base in an attempt to advance until after a pitch has crossed home plate. Leadoffs are not permitted, and will result in the base runner being ruled out. Runners must return to their respective bases after a fly ball is caught before attempting to advance. If a runner passes a teammate on the basepaths, the runner is out but the teammate is not.

    Fielding

    • In slow pitch softball, teams are permitted to field 10 players, with the extra fielder usually situated in the outfield. Coed teams must have five men and five women on the field, or they will forfeit the game. Additionally, a team's pitcher-catcher combo must include one man and one woman. Coed softball also features a rule governing where outfielders can play when a woman is batting. Most leagues use a chalk line just behind the infield as a boundary for outfielders, who are not allowed to cross it when a female player is hitting. If an outfielder crosses the line, the batter is awarded first base.