Competitive softball is one of the most popular women's sports in the United States. It is played by girls at the youth, high school, college and professional level. Pitchers tend to dominate this sport as they can throw the softball at speeds up to 70 mph, which is the equivalent of a 90-plus mph fastball in baseball. Pitchers can also throw risers, drops, curveballs and changeups. There are several key rules and terms that make the game unique.
Pitching Rules
Pitchers must pitch the ball from the raised rubber slab that is located inside the pitcher's circle. There is no pitcher's mound. Pitchers are not allowed to use any deceptive motion when delivering the ball to the batter. The pitcher must come straight at the hitter and may not step backward or to the side. There is no behind-the-back or between-the-legs pitching allowed. The pitcher must start her pitch from within the pitcher's circle and must end up in the circle after her release.
Number of Players
In competitive softball, coaches are allowed to use 10 fielders in the game. The extra fielder is normally placed in the outfield and teams regularly play with four outfielders across. However, that is customary and it is not a rule. Coaches can use the extra fielder anywhere they want as long as the fielder is in fair territory. The coach may also use 10 batters in the lineup. A coach can choose to use a designated hitter for any of the fielders. That's different than baseball where the designated hitter must be used to bat for the pitcher. A coach can choose to use all 10 fielders in the batting lineup and is not forced to use a designated hitter.
Safety Rules
All batters must wear a hard plastic helmet every time they come up to the plate. The helmet must cover both ears and must be worn as long as the batter is on base. Facemasks are not required, but they are encouraged. Helmets must be worn as soon as the batter steps out of the dugout and goes to the on-deck circle. Catchers must wear a catcher's mask, a chest protector and shin guards. The catcher's mask must have a throat protector hanging from the bottom of the mask.
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