Youth Baseball and Softball Positions Explained for Parents

A Simple Guide for Parents

Understanding the positions in youth baseball and softball helps parents feel more confident and better able to support their child throughout the season. This guide explains each position in clear, parent friendly language and is written with full recognition that girls and boys participate equally in both sports. Whether your child is new or returning, the information below provides a simple overview of how each part of the field works and what young players typically learn.

Overview of the Field Layout

The field is divided into two main areas.

The Infield
This is the area around the four bases where many plays happen. It includes first base, second base, shortstop, third base, pitcher, and catcher.

The Outfield
This is the grassy area behind the infield. It includes left field, center field, and right field.

Understanding these two areas helps parents visualize where each position is located and how the game flows.

Infield Positions Explained

Pitcher

The pitcher begins each play by delivering the ball toward home plate so the batter can attempt to hit it. In youth baseball and softball, the focus is not on speed or advanced technique. Instead, children learn steady balance, controlled motion, and the ability to throw the ball safely and accurately to the catcher. The pitcher also plays an important role in fielding. After releasing the ball, they become another fielder who can catch slow rollers, cover parts of the infield, and help direct simple plays. Coaches introduce these responsibilities gradually to build confidence and comfort with the position.

Catcher

The catcher receives pitches, helps guide plays near home plate, and returns the ball to the pitcher. This position requires attention and communication, but in youth leagues it is taught gradually with an emphasis on safety.

First Base

First basemen often receive throws from other infielders to complete outs. Children who play first base learn how to catch reliably and stay aware of runners approaching the base.

Second Base

Second basemen field ground balls hit between first and second base. They learn quick throws and how to cover the base during plays.

Shortstop

The shortstop covers the area between second and third base and often fields a large number of balls. Coaches help players at this position build strong throwing habits.

Third Base

Third basemen handle hard hit balls and make long throws across the field. Young players at this position learn to react quickly and stay focused.

Each infield position offers meaningful opportunities for development, and children rotate as they learn their strengths.

Outfield Positions Explained

Left Field

Players in left field learn to track fly balls and back-up plays near third base.

Center Field

Center fielders often cover the widest area and support both left and right field. This position encourages communication and awareness.

Right Field

Right fielders field balls hit to the right side of the outfield and back up plays near first base.

Outfield positions help children build patience, focus, and the ability to judge the path of a ball in the air.

How Coaches Decide Where Children Play

Coaches consider several simple factors when deciding positions for young players:

• safety
• giving each child a chance to learn
• natural preferences
• developing basic skills
• fairness and rotation
• building confidence

Most youth coaches rotate players through several positions during the season so every child gains experience and feels included.

What Skills Begin Developing at Each Position

Infield Skills
Quick reactions, glove control, short throws, and awareness of runners.

Outfield Skills
Tracking fly balls, staying focused, learning angles, and backing up plays.

Catcher Skills
Receiving the ball, returning it to the pitcher, protecting home plate, and communicating calmly.

Pitcher Skills
Learning balance, accuracy, and controlled movements.

These skills develop gradually, and no child is expected to master anything immediately.

Encouraging Your Child in Any Position

Parents play an important role by:

• supporting coaches’ decisions
• encouraging effort rather than results
• celebrating small improvements
• remaining patient as children learn
• avoiding comparison to other players

A steady and supportive presence helps children enjoy the process and build long-lasting confidence.

Summary

Youth baseball and softball positions become easy to understand once you know the general layout of the field and the role each position plays. Children learn these responsibilities gradually, often trying several positions before discovering what feels natural. Coaches guide development with safety, fairness, and confidence building in mind, and parents support their child best by offering calm encouragement.

Your next step is simply to continue helping your child enjoy practices and games while they explore the positions that interest them. With consistent exposure and positive support, both girls and boys learn how each part of the field works and develop pride in their growing abilities.

This article is part of the Trustworthy Guidance resource for parents navigating youth sports.
Learn more at www.trustworthyguidance.com