Little League fields are designed specifically for young players from the ages of 8 through 12 so they can learn and play baseball. The size of the field is designed to make the game a challenge but takes into account that youngsters should not have to struggle on the same fields used by adults.
Pitching Distance
Just like a full-sized baseball field, pitchers must stand on a pitching rubber in the center of a raised mound. The rubber is exactly 46 feet from the back corner of home plate. Adult pitchers throw from a distance of 60 feet 6 inches.
Base Paths
The distance between all bases is 60 feet. In adult baseball, the bases are 90 feet apart. In many levels of Little League baseball, a safety base is used at first to prevent accidents and collisions. This is set up with a standard white base protruding from the foul line into fair territory, used by the first baseman to make plays. An orange base is attached and extends into foul territory. The runner uses this base. If the fielder accidentally steps on the safety base or the runner uses the fielder's base, the umpire reminds the offending player about the proper base. A second offense lead to an interference or obstruction call.
Backstop
Little League fields should have a backstop located behind home plate to keep wild pitches and passed balls from getting too far away from the catcher. The backstop is 38 feet away from home plate in Little League baseball. In adult baseball, it should be at least 50 feet from home and, in some cases, 90 feet or more.
Outfield Fences
Many Little League fields do not have fences, and hard hit balls can roll for great distances if they get by the fielder, turning long hits to turn into triples and home runs. But Little League recommends fences about 180 feet from home for all new fields. Modern professional stadiums cannot have fences that are less than 300 from home plate.
References
- Sports Know How: Little League Baseball Field Dimensions
- "Little League's Official How-To Play Baseball Book"; Peter Kreutzer, Ted Kerley and Ted Kurley; 2003
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