Stealing in softball can be a game-changing event. Many fast-pitch softball games are dominated by pitchers. The games tend to be very low scoring and one run often means the difference between tying the game and losing by a run. A player who can steal a base at a critical moment is very valuable to her team.
No Lead
The basepaths in softball are 60 feet apart. With such a short distance between bases, players are not permitted to take a lead. If a player attempts to take a lead when the pitcher has the ball within the pitcher's circle, the umpire will call the runner out.
Stealing Procedure
If you are going to steal in fast-pitch softball, you must have your left leg on the base prior to taking off for second. As the pitcher takes her stance on the pitching rubber, you can get ready to run by getting in a position to accelerate. Your left knee will be bent and so will your right knee. You want to get as low as you can to the ground while still keeping your eyes focused on the pitcher. As soon as she releases the ball, sprint for the next base. Do not leave early or you will be called out.
Sliding
Sliding is mandatory when stealing in fast-pitch softball if the catcher makes a throw to the next base. If the ball gets by the catcher and she does not throw, the runner is not forced to slide. However, the runner must slide directly to the bag and she must hit the bag with her spikes. The infielder attempting to make a play can partially block the base, but she needs to leave at least 25 percent of the edge of the base available to the oncoming runner. If she blocks the base completely, the umpire can call obstruction and award the base to the runner.
Advancing
If there is a play at the base on a steal and the fielder cannot control the throw, the runner may advance at her own risk. For example, if the runner stealing second base gets there safely and the catcher's throw goes over the second baseman's head and ends up in the outfield, the runner may pick herself up and continue running to third base. She can be thrown out, but if she's safe, she may maintain that position.
Slow-Pitch Softball
There is no stealing of bases allowed in slow-pitch softball. Players may advance on overthrows from the field, but they may not lead or steal on their own. Players may not advance on wild pitches or pass balls either.
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