Fastpitch softball is one of the most popular sports in the United States for girls and it is growing in popularity in many other countries. It is a game that is dominated by pitching. Many of the pitchers can throw fastballs, risers, curves, drops and changeups. As a result, runs are hard to come by. In low-scoring, close games it's important to know the rules and the way the game is supposed to be played
Pitching Rules
Pitchers can only step straight toward the batter when delivering a ball from the pitcher's circle. Pitchers are not allowed to do anything deceptive in their delivery or else they will be throwing an illegal pitch. Pitchers must not step sideways or backward with their drive legs. They cannot throw any pitches behind their back or between their legs. That is considered deceptive.
Bunting Rules
The bunt is a key play in softball. Managers and coaches may choose to bunt runners to advance them. In order for a bunt to be legal, the bunter must be in the batter's box when she makes contact with the ball. Left-handed batters may attempt a drag bunt that is done with a running start, but they must be in the batter's box when contact is made. A bunt that goes foul with two strikes is considered a strikeout. If a bunt starts off in foul territory and it curves into fair territory before it reaches first or third base, it is a fair ball. If a ball starts off in fair territory and it curves into foul territory before it reaches first or third base, it is foul.
Protective Equipment
All batters must wear protective batting helmets. These helmets must be hard plastic and must cover both ears. Facemasks are not required but they are encouraged. If the batter reaches base, she must continue to wear the helmet as long as she is on the base. The player must wear a batting helmet as soon as she leaves the dugout and enters the on deck circle.
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