3rd base

Question
QUESTION: Slow pitch softball when I am on third i stand probably 5-6 feet left of the bag towards the s.stop. right behind the baseline is that correct?? now when i have runners and need to make a play at 3rd where do i stand inside the baseline in front of the bag or behind the baseline out of the runners way?? im confused...also if its a foul ball should its always an out when i catch it whether it was fair or foul correct?? thank you
ANSWER: Hello Angie,

Where you stand when playing third depends on your arm strength and your range.  The most important thing to remember when setting up defensively is you MUST protect the line.  Any ball that gets by you down the baseline will most likely result in a double and put a runner in scoring position.  Any ball that is hit between you and shortstop should only result in a single.  For this reason, I typically make sure my third baseman is close enough to the line that she will not get burnt by a line drive down the line.  Since you have a long throw to first you don't want to get too far behind the baseline with no body on base.  If there is a runner on 1st or 1st and second, then you can play a couple of steps further back because you will not be making that long throw since your first priority is to get the lead runner.  If you are in the late innings, and the bases are loaded with less than two outs, you will play about 3-4 feet in front of the bag because the play would be home in all likelihood.  Every ball you catch in the air is counted as an out whether it is fair or foul.  If you need anything else, don't hesitate to ask and good luck this season!

Coach Mike

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: thanx for ur advice however i am in question od where i need to stand when runners are runner thru the bases so im not interfering with their running or blocking the bag where does my body need to be ? inside the diamond then they would run behind me or outside the diamond and they would run in front of me??

Answer
Hello again Angie,

If there is no play at the base I would advise you to stand outside the foul line close to the base.  That way if the runner is leaning in while rounding your base, there is no chance of you being called for obstruction.  You don't want to get too far away from your base because if the runner gets stuck between home and third, you need to be in position in case the catcher throws behind the runner in an attempt to get her out while returning.

Coach Mike