SOFTBALL ABC
KNOW THE GAME. LOVE THE GAME.
New to softball? Perfect. Here’s all you need to enjoy your first game.
THE GAME IN 60 SECONDS
THAT'S BASICALLY ALL YOU NEED.
Two teams. One ball. One goal: score more runs than your opponent.
7 INNINGS
Each team bats once per inning.
3 OUTS
Three outs end the team's turn.
3 STRIKES
Three strikes make the batter out.
4 BALLS
Four balls give the batter a walk.
WAIT... WHAT JUST HAPPENED?
THE PLAYS YOU'LL WANT TO KNOW.
HOME RUN
Over the fence. Everyone on base scores. You may cheer now.
STRIKEOUT
Three strikes. Batter out. Pitcher happy.
STEAL
A runner advances without waiting for the ball to be hit.
DOUBLE PLAY
Two outs on a single play. Fast, difficult and very satisfying.
BASE HIT
The batter hits safely and reaches a base.
WALK
Four balls. First base without having to hit the ball.
WHAT'S THE UMPIRE SAYING?
LEARN THE SIGNS.
SAFE!
Arms wide. Runner stays.
OUT!
Raised fist. Runner is out.
STRIKE!
A called strike at the plate.
TIME!
Play stops temporarily.
READ THE SCOREBOARD
EASIER THAN IT LOOKS.
Each column shows an inning. On the right, three letters tell most of the story.
WAIT — ISN'T THIS JUST BASEBALL?
NOT QUITE.
SOFTBALL
BIGGER BALL
SMALLER FIELD
UNDERHAND PITCHING
7 INNINGS
60 FT BASES
BASEBALL
SMALLER BALL
LARGER FIELD
OVERHAND PITCHING
9 INNINGS
90 FT BASES
