Bases are an integral part of a baseball game. There are four bases -- home plate, first, second and third. Players much touch these bases to be safe or score runs while batting. Players in the infield often must touch the bases for outs. Bases are made of a cloth material and attached securely to the ground.
Outer Covering
The outside of a base is covered in a white canvas or with a white rubber cover. Major League Baseball requires that bases be covered in white canvas. Bases used for youth teams or in recreational play may have a vinyl covering. A vinyl covering is waterproof and can withstand weather along with the wear and tear that comes with baseball.
Inside Material
The inside of a base is filled with a soft material. Major League Baseball says foam is the normal material used. Foam provides give when players run or slide. In previous years, sawdust and sand were popular means of filling bases. Foam is more cost-efficient.
Stanchion
Professional bases have a stanchion that attaches the base securely to the playing field. A stanchion resembles a spike. On the playing field, there is a corresponding hole to insert the stanchion. Cheaper bases may have a waffled bottom that helps to keep the base secure.
Size
Bases are square in shape. Each side of the square is 15 inches and bases are between 3 and 5 inches thick, according to MLB.
Home Plate
Home plate is five-sided and made of white rubber. Home plate's top is parallel to the ground.
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