Popular Pastimes for Field and Fireside, or Amusements for young and old

by Caroline L. Smith

The duties of this player are many and arduous, and his position the most dangerous one on the field. He stands in the center of the triangle formed by the second and third bases and pitcher’s position, though he should vary his position according to his knowledge of different player’s style of batting. It is to this spot that nearly all the swiftly batted ground balls come, which require more nerve and practice to stop than any other. Upon securing the ball the short stop should pass it swiftly to whatever base a player may be running for, generally to the first. He should be on the alert to cover the third base when the catcher throws to it; to back up the second when receiving a ball from the fielders, and also to take balls on the bound when missed by the third baseman or pitcher.

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4. First Base.

This player should be a splendid catch, and able to hold swiftly sent balls, as he will be obliged to take them from the pitcher and short stop, more frequently than any of the other basemen. He should play a little below his base, and inside the line of the foul ball post in order to secure balls which would otherwise pass him. As soon as the ball is struck he should return to his base and with one foot upon it stand ready to receive the ball from whatever player may have fielded it.

This is the only base where a player can be put out without being touched by the ball, (excepting balls caught on the fly, or those that are fouled) as it is only necessary that the baseman with ball in hand touch the base before the striker reaches it. He should instantly deliver the ball to the pitcher or to any base where it may be necessary.

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5. Second Base.

Many ball players consider this position to be the most important point in the whole game, and with good reason. It should never be filled but by an accurate thrower, a sure catcher and a thorough fielder. As most of the balls pass to the left of this base it is well to play in that direction and a little back of it, although when a player reaches the first base the baseman should instantly return. The second base can give material aid to the pitcher by backing him up closely, and not suffering a ball to pass them both if possible to stop it. If he fails to catch a ball, let him by all means stop it in some way, in order to put out a player by touching him, then return it to the pitcher.

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6. Third Base.