Learn the basic rules of baseball

1. Game Structure

• Teams: 9 players per team (offense bats, defense pitches/fields)
• Innings: 9 innings (each has top/bottom halves). Extra innings if tied.
• Winning: Switch sides after 3 outs. Home team bats last.

2. Field & Positions

• Diamond: Infield (home plate, 1st, 2nd, 3rd bases) + outfield
• Defense: Pitcher, catcher, 4 infielders (1B, 2B, 3B, SS), 3 outfielders (LF, CF, RF)

3. Scoring Runs

• Run: Batter safely circles bases to home plate = 1 point
• Home Run: Ball hit over outfield fence (all runners score)

4. Getting Outs (3 per inning)

• Strikeout: 3 strikes (swing misses or called strikes in zone)
• Flyout: Ball caught in air before touching ground
• Force Out: Runner must advance but defender touches base first
• Tag Out: Defender tags runner with ball while off base

5. Pitching Rules

• Strike Zone: Between knees and armpits over home plate
• Strike: Pitch in zone (not swung) OR any swing miss
• Ball: Pitch outside zone (no swing). 4 balls = walk to 1st base

6. Batting & Base Running

• Hit Types: Single (1B), Double (2B), Triple (3B), Home Run (HR)
• Stealing: Runner advances during pitch (risk of being tagged)
• Sacrifice: Intentional out to advance teammates (fly or bunt)

7. Special Rules

• DH Rule: American League uses Designated Hitter for pitcher
• Replay Review: Managers may challenge umpire calls
• Perfect Game: No opposing player reaches base (27 outs)

8. Key Terms