First Baseman

The first baseman is the player closest to the first base, usually a few steps behind the base and within a fair area. This allows the athlete to cover enough ground ball space while being near enough to cover first base on a ground ball.

First basemen, aside from pitchers and catchers, are the players who see the most action throughout a game. When a ball is hit into play, another infielder nearly always throws the ball to first base to eliminate the force.

When a batter hits a ground ball, the first baseman’s primary task is to rush to first base and catch the throw to complete the out. The first baseman obtains a “put out” when he sees a ball and gets a force out.

Because there are so many force-outs plays at first base, first basemen get the most put-outs per game.

Right-handed and left-handed players can both play this position. However, left-handed players are greatly favored. A left-handed first baseman can throw to the other bases more quickly than a right-handed first baseman since he doesn’t have to turn or pivot as much.

Because more double plays may be made when the first baseman is left-handed, a left-handed first baseman provides a critical defensive edge. A left-handed first baseman is already able to throw to second base and start the double play when he gets a ground ball.

On the offensive side, most first basemen are capable of consistently hitting home runs. They are usually big, muscular guys that rely on strength rather than speed.