2nd baseman

Question
Does a 2nd baseman have the right to take up the position of standing right in the baseline as her permanent position in an inning so if the opposing team can steal they would have to run out of the baseline to get to the next base or what is the proper placement to stand
all my years many many ago it was not allowed you had to be up and to the left of 2nd base

Answer
Barb,

Yes they can, but they put themselves at risk for obstruction.  

Any time a defensive player that is not making an initial play on a ball interferes with a runners direct path to the base they are running to, the defensive player is guilty of obstruction.  An obstructed runner can not be put out between the two base where they were obstructed.

Proper placement for F4 would depend on the batter and the game situation.  Setting up in line with 1st and 2nd base isn't the best idea.

Tom