The rules and regulations of softball differ based on skill level and the ages of the players, but the most general rules remain the same. The rules determine the field layout, game length, pitching methods and batting. All leagues require an umpire to make rulings on the field, interpret the rules and guide players in understanding these rules.
Number of Players
Each team must have a total of nine starting players. Offensively, these players consist of the pitcher, catcher, first base, second base, shortstop, third base, right field, center field and left field. A team is allowed to have players on the bench in case a substitution is desired or an injury occurs. The number of players on a bench varies depending on the league.
Field Dimensions
Home plate and the three bases are set along the infield in a diamond pattern, with each base being 60 feet apart. The pitcher circle is located directly in the center of the bases. There are no set rules regarding the dimensions of the outfield area. The outfield will vary depending on the ages of the players and the field where the play is occurring.
Game Length
An official game of softball is played for a total of seven innings. An inning consists of a top half and a bottom half. The away team bats in the top of the inning, and the home team batting in the bottom of the inning. An inning is complete once both teams have had the chance to bat, with each team recording three outs. In the event that the home team is winning after the top of the seventh inning, the game will end without the bottom half of the inning being played.
Pitching
Regardless of the league and whether the game is a fast-pitch or slow-pitch game, the ball must be pitched underhanded from the pitchers circle to the batter.
Hitting
The order of batters must remain the same throughout the duration of the game. The only time the lineup may change is when a substitution has been made. Once a player has been removed for a substitution, that player is not eligible to play for the duration of the game. Each batter will bat until an out has been recorded or a hit has been made. An out is recorded with the player receives her third strike, the ball is caught in the air or the player is tagged out at one of the bases.
Base Running
When the ball is hit and put into play, the batter must run towards first base. The base runner is required to touch each base in consecutive order in a counterclockwise direction. A runner is allowed to overrun first base and is allowed to slide into second, third or home.
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