Slowpitch softball is a popular recreational sport played by people of all ages. The game is similar to baseball, but it has its own set of unique rules designed to make it more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Below is a basic breakdown of the key rules of slowpitch softball.

For more detailed rules, check out Slo-Pitch National Rulebook or the Play Slo-Pitch Handbook & Rulebook.

1. Team Size and Positions

• Each team consists of 10 players on the field at a time.
• The defensive positions include: pitcher, catcher, four infielders (first base, second base, shortstop, third base), and four outfielders (left field, left-center, right-center, right field).
• Teams can have extra players on their roster to substitute during the game.

2. Game Length

• A standard slowpitch softball game is seven innings long.
• An inning consists of each team batting once and playing defense once.
• The game can end earlier if one team is ahead by a certain number of runs after a set number of innings. This is called the mercy rule (often applied if a team leads by 10 or more runs after five innings).

3. Pitching Rules

• The pitcher must deliver the ball with an underhand motion.
• The ball must have an arc between 6 to 12 feet when pitched.
• There are no fast pitches allowed. The emphasis is on placing the ball in play rather than striking out batters.

4. Batting

• Each batter starts with a 1-ball, 1-strike count in most leagues.
• The batter is out after 3 strikes or fouls out after two strikes.
• The batter is awarded first base after 4 balls.
• Home runs may be limited, depending on league rules. For example, a team may only be allowed a certain number of home runs per game to keep games competitive.

5. Base Running

• Runners must touch all bases in order: first, second, third, and home plate.
• Runners can be tagged out if the ball reaches the base before they do, or if they are tagged while off the base.
• Sliding is allowed in most leagues, but headfirst sliding is often discouraged for safety reasons.
• Runners must stay on the base until the batter makes contact with the ball. No leading off or stealing bases is allowed in slowpitch softball.

6. Scoring

• A team scores a run when a player successfully reaches home plate after touching all bases in order.
• The team with the most runs at the end of seven innings wins the game.
• If the score is tied after seven innings, extra innings may be played, depending on league rules.

7. Fielding Rules

• Fielders must stay in their designated positions until the ball is hit.
• Outfielders typically play deeper due to the slow pitch and the likelihood of more fly balls.
• A catch counts as an out if a defensive player catches the ball before it touches the ground.
• A double play can be made if two outs are recorded during the same play.

8. Home Run and Foul Ball Rules

• Home runs occur when the ball is hit over the outfield fence in fair territory.
• A foul ball is a ball hit outside the first or third base lines. It counts as a strike unless the batter already has two strikes.

9. Coed Rules (if applicable)

• In coed leagues, teams must usually have a set number of male and female players on the field.
• Batting orders typically alternate between male and female players to maintain balance.

10. Umpires and Rules Enforcement

• Games are officiated by one or more umpires, who enforce the rules and make calls on balls, strikes, and outs.
• Players and teams are expected to respect the umpires’ decisions and show good sportsmanship.

Slowpitch softball is a fun and inclusive sport that emphasizes teamwork, skill, and enjoyment. The simplified rules make it accessible to players of all skill levels, ensuring a fun experience for everyone involved.