Building a baseball field requires taking numerous measurements to make sure the bases and foul lines are positioned correctly. Incorrect base positions and infield shape are common mistakes but can easily be prevented. The bases and infield form a 90-foot square diamond and can be completed with the proper tools, time, concentration and a step-by-step approach.
Step 1
Install home plate in the desired location. Start with one tape measure at the back tip--or apex--of the plate and extend the tape in the direction of second base. Pound a wooden stake that marks 127 feet, 3 3/8 inches. This will make the middle of second base. Keep the tape measure extended for reference.
Step 2
Start a second tape measure by extending in the direction of first base to 90 feet. Start the third tape measure at the second base wooden stake and extend to 90 feet. Mark the location where both tape measures meet at 90 feet. This represents the back corner of first base. Pound a wooden stake to mark the position.
Step 3
Reposition a tape measure to 90 feet that extends from home plate in the direction of third base. Start another tape measure at the second base wooden stake and extend to 90 feet. Find the location where both tape measure intersect at the 90-foot mark and pound a wooden stake to mark the back corner of third base. Measure the distance between the first and third base stakes to check for 127 feet 3 3/8 inches.
Tips and Warnings
- First and third bases are within the 90-foot square. The 127 feet, 3 3/8 inch measurement is the hypotenuse of two triangles.
- Double-check every measurement for accuracy before installing bases.
Member Comments