How to Play Second Base in Fastpitch Softball

Playing second base in fast-pitch softball requires athleticism and dexterity--not unlike how it is played in hardball. While a strong throwing arm helps, it is not a necessity due to the proximity of first base to the second baseman--with the throws being short enough that even a below-average arm can make the vast majority of plays. But a second baseman needs to be a solid fielder, have the ability to turn a double play and cover the base, and be the cutoff man on throws from the outfield.

Things You'll Need

  • Infielder's glove
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Instructions

    • 1

      Stay low to the ground on ground balls, and keep your glove open as the ball approaches with your throwing hand above the glove in an open position as well. Look the softball into your glove and stay in front of the ball. Keep down, and if the ball takes a hop upward you will be able to rise up and field it. Always attempt to knock down whatever grounders you can since you will usually have time to make a play on the runner if you can retrieve the ball rapidly.

    • 2

      Catch any pop-ups and line drives that are hit in your direction. Give way to incoming outfielders but make sure they have called you off the ball before veering off. On foul balls along the right field line, the second baseman often has the best angle, so never give up on these until called off.

    • 3

      Cover second base when opponents are trying to steal or stretch singles into doubles. Normally the second baseman has this responsibility when a right-handed hitter is batting. Always confer with the shortstop so there will be no confusion on who is covering the bag. When taking throws from the catcher, straddle the base and slap the tag down once you procure the softball in it. Keep the tag on the runner in case she overslides the base. Leap high for wild throws and block low ones with your body and legs to avoid the runner being able to advance a base as the ball makes its way into the outfield.

    • 4

      Get the lead runner on a double play attempt. With a man on first, if the ball is hit to you field it and give the shortstop a good throw as she covers second. This allows him to catch it in one motion and make a throw to first to try to nip the runner there. Stay under control as you field, and then pivot and throw to the shortstop.

    • 5

      Make it to second base rapidly on a double play ball hit to short. Being late will make turning two nearly impossible. Once around the base, time your steps so that you catch the toss from the shortstop while passing over the base. Touch it lightly with your foot, and then turn toward first, set yourself and throw to that base. Be aware of runners bearing down on you to break up the play, and leap out of their way to avoid being overturned. Try not to ever be hit by a sliding runner when one of your feet is solidly planted on the ground.

    • 6

      Go into the shallow outfield to take cut-off throws from the right fielder. Position yourself so that you can quickly turn and throw out a runner trying to score or go to third base. Hold up both hands to present an excellent target and be aware of where the runners are. Tell the other cut-off men where to throw to when you are not involved in the play.

    • 7

      Cover first base on little dribblers that the pitcher and first baseman converge on in the infield. Make yourself a good target, and get your foot quickly off the base to avoid being stepped on.