Baseball is a very popular team sport. It is a game played by young children and professional athletes. While the rules of the game may differ depending on competitive level of play, the basic rules and objective of the game remain the same regardless of where it is played.
Players
Baseball is played with nine players on each team. However, teams have reserve players who can substitute for another player at any time. There are two types of players on a baseball teams, fielders and pitchers. There are eight field positions: catcher, first base, second base, third base, shortstop, center field, left field and right field. Field players are responsible for playing defense and hitting. The pitcher's only job is to pitch to opposing players.
Logistics
Baseball fields will vary in size depending on the age of players and the level of play. Professional baseball fields have certain set dimensions. The bases are positioned in a diamond formation, each 90 feet away from the previous one. The pitching mound is 60 feet, 6 inches from home plate. The outfield wall is the one variable, as the distance from home plate varies from stadium to stadium.
Game Rules
Teams alternate between playing defense and hitting. The away team always hits first. During play, the pitcher will throw the ball to the catcher, positioned behind home plate. The opposing player will stand on either side of the plate and attempt to hit the ball. If the ball is hit in play, the batter will then run to first base. If the defensive team is able to throw the ball to the first baseman, standing on the base, before the runner gets there, the player is out, and vice versa. Additionally, if the ball is caught without hitting the ground, the player is also out. Offensive players attempt to go around the bases. If they are able to reach home plate, the team scores a run. Play continues until the defensive team gets three outs, at which points team switch from offense to defense.
Strike Zone
When a pitch is thrown and not swung on, the umpire decides whether the ball is a ball or strike. Generally, the strike zone is deemed to be from a player's knees to his waist, and the width of the plate. Additionally, if a player swings and misses the ball, or hits the ball into foul territory, it is also a strike. If a player gets three strikes, he is out. If a pitcher throws four balls, it is known as a walk, and the player is awarded first base.
Length of Game
Most baseball games are nine innings. Youth games, however, may be shorter. After nine innings, the team with the most runs wins the game.
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