In slow-pitch softball, the catcher can indeed throw a base runner out at first base. However, the ways this can happen are limited compared to the fast-pitch game. Because of the differences in rules, there are only a couple of instances in which one will see a catcher throw a runner out at first base.
The Position of Catcher
The catcher usually crouches behind the plate and receives pitches from the pitcher. In slow-pitch softball, the role of the catcher is sometimes limited, as few slow-pitch softball leagues allow runners to steal bases. Because of this, the catcher does not get to field as much and does not have as many responsibilities as his fast-pitch counterpart, who is generally responsible for countering the opposing team's running game.
Batted Ball
In slow-pitch softball, a catcher can throw a base runner out at first base when the batter hits the ball in front of the plate. If the ball does not go far, the catcher can come out from behind the plate, pick up the ball and throw it to first base. If the ball gets to the first baseman before the runner -- and the first baseman touches the base -- the runner is out. In addition, if the bases are loaded and there is a ground ball to a fielder, they can throw home to the catcher to get a force out. If the catcher then throws to first base before the base runner gets there, or gets the ball to the first baseman after the runner at first leaves the base and enables the fielder to tag the runner out, these are both legal ways for the catcher to create an out at first base.
Pop Fly
Another way a catcher can throw out a runner at first base involves an instance in which a runner is already at first. In most softball leagues, the runner is not allowed to leave the base until the ball is hit. But if the batter pops up to the catcher and the catcher catches the ball and throws the ball to first base before the runner on first base can return to the bag, the runner is out.
Rarities
Several rules used by organizations such as the Amateur Softball Association of America, or ASA, and the United States Specialty Sports Association, or USSSA, make the catcher-to-first base throwing out a relative rarity. For example, rules in slow-pitch softball prohibit bunting or slapping down on the ball -- swinging in a downward motion -- to avoid hitting the ball to a fielder. The umpire can call a batter out on those situations if he or she feels the batter violated these rules. As a result, the ball generally gets hit far enough that the catcher does not come into play. Every slow-pitch softball league has its own rules, however, so be sure to check for any differences before you play.
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