How to Fill out a Lineup Card in Softball

The work of a softball manager begins long before the game's first pitch. As a manager, you must fill out your lineup card with the nine players batting in an order that you think will generate the most runs for your team. You also must consider whether the opposing pitcher throws with the left or the right hand, as well as the success your batters have had against that pitcher. Think strategy as you fill out the lineup card.

Instructions

    • 1
      Put your speedier players at the top of the lineup.

      Think speed and bat control for your first two batters. The first one, called the lead off hitter, should run fast, not swing at bad pitches and be willing to walk instead of get a hit. The second hitter should make good contact with the ball, run well and have the ability to move the lead off batter around the bases.

    • 2
      Put your best power hitter fourth in the lineup.

      Give the third through fifth spots in the lineup to the players who will drive in runs. Your first two hitters, if they have done their job, are on base. The next three need to hit to send them home. Put your best hitter in the third spot. Your fourth hitter should have the ability to hit the ball deep. The fifth spot should go to the player who, of these three, might be the most likely to strike out.

    • 3
      A number six hitter should move runners from base to base.

      Designate a player with qualities similar to your number two hitter for the sixth spot in the lineup. This player should have good bat control, not strike out much and be able to bunt to advance runners.

    • 4
      The ninth hitter often is called "the second leadoff hitter."

      Hide your weakest and slowest batters in the seventh and eighth spots. Put another speedy player with the ability to tell balls from strikes in your ninth spot. If your last hitter gets on base, the players back at the top of the lineup will have a shot at driving her in for a run.