Rules And Regulations Of Fastpitch Softball

Fast-pitch softball is a competitive game, played by elite players, and is one of the most popular sports for women in the United States. Fast-pitch softball has specific regulations regarding pitching, number of players, distances, and safety equipment that must be addressed every game by umpires.

Pitching

In fast-pitch softball, the pitcher must start and finish her delivery from within the pitcher's circle. She must start on the pitcher's rubber, and must throw a pitch that goes straight towards home plate --- she may not step in any other direction except straight toward home plate once she starts her deliver. Stepping to the side will result in an "illegal pitch" call by the umpire.

Number of Players

In competitive fast-pitch softball, each team fields 10 players --- one more than a baseball team. That additional player is usually stationed in the outfield, but coaches can position the her anywhere in fair territory. The only player who may be stationed in foul territory is the catcher. The batting team also uses 10 batters, and may use a hitter to bat in place of any position players. The designated hitter does not have to bat for the pitcher, as is the case in baseball, and indeed, a coach is not required to use a designated hitter.

Distances

The pitching rubber is 43 feet from the back tip of home plate. The pitching rubber is located in the pitching circle, which has a circumference of 18 feet. The bases are all 60 feet apart from each other. Fences are not required on all competitive fields, but if they are used, they must stand a minimum distance of 200 feet from home. The recommended distance is 225 feet.

Safety Equipment

All players must wear batting helmets when they come up to the plate. The helmets must be made of hard plastic, and must cover both ears. The player must don her helmet as soon as she comes out of the dugout and moves into the on-deck circle. If she reaches base, she must continue to wear her helmet. Face masks are not required, but are approved if players wish to use them. Catchers must wear a catcher's mask, a chest protector, and shin guards. The catcher's mask must have a throat protector on its bottom rung.