Plate Umpiring Advanced Techniques
What are the main differences between umpiring baseball and softball?
Topic | Softball | Baseball |
Can a player re-enter a game as a pitcher after having been removed from the pitching position? | - A pitcher may be removed and re-enter the same game as a pitcher if she continued in a defensive position. In other words, she cannot sit out any plays on defense and still be eligible to pitch later. | - A pitcher may not re-enter the same game as a pitcher once removed from the pitching position. |
What are the rule differences relating to bunting? | - A batter who shows a bunt and decides not to, must retract the bat or it is called a strike. | - A batter, who shows a bunt, does not have to retract the bat. So long as he does not make an attempt (and the ball was not in the strike zone), it is called a ball. |
What is the size of the batter's box? | - Batter's box is 7' long with the extra foot ahead of the plate. Thus the batter may legally stand further up from the plate than in baseball. | - Batter's box is 6' long, centered evenly to the side of the plate. |
Can a baseball bat be used for softball (and vice versa)? | - Softball bats, typically longer, must be used. | - Baseball bats must be used. |
Does a catcher have to use a catcher's mitt? | - No, a catcher can wear a catcher's mitt, first baseman's mitt or a fielder's glove. | - Yes, a catcher must use a catcher's mitt. |
A note on pitching motion differences
- The pitching arm and leg motions are quite different between softball (underhand) and baseball (overhand). Thus, there are some subtle variations between the two on illegal pitching motions.
- Pitching rule violations are illegal pitches, with a ball called on the batter. Becoming familiar with illegal pitches is an advanced skill that requires game experience. Work with and learn this topic from a veteran umpire, focusing on the most common illegal pitching examples.