Guide
Baseball positions explained: what each player does
Baseball has nine defensive positions, each with its own job and its own number in the scorebook. Here is what every position does, what skills it rewards, and how to think about positions for young players.
The nine positions at a glance
| # | Position | Abbr. | Where |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pitcher | P | Mound |
| 2 | Catcher | C | Behind home plate |
| 3 | First baseman | 1B | First base |
| 4 | Second baseman | 2B | Right side of the infield, near second |
| 5 | Third baseman | 3B | Third base |
| 6 | Shortstop | SS | Between second and third |
| 7 | Left fielder | LF | Outfield, left side |
| 8 | Center fielder | CF | Outfield, middle |
| 9 | Right fielder | RF | Outfield, right side |
The numbers are how scorekeepers write plays: a groundout from shortstop to first base is a 6-3. See how to keep score in baseball.
The battery: pitcher and catcher
- Pitcher (1)
- Starts every play by throwing to the batter, and also fields balls hit back toward the mound and covers bases. Rewards a strong, accurate arm, composure and repeatable mechanics. Because pitching is demanding on young arms, follow your league's pitch limits and rest rules. See pitch count rules and arm care.
- Catcher (2)
- Receives pitches, signals pitch calls in many leagues, blocks balls in the dirt, throws out runners, and directs the defense on plays at the plate. Rewards toughness, quick feet and a good throwing arm.
The infield
- First base (3)
- Receives throws to record outs. Rewards good hands, footwork around the bag and, at some levels, height and reach.
- Second base (4)
- Covers the right side of the infield and turns double plays. Rewards quickness and soft hands.
- Shortstop (6)
- Covers the most ground between second and third, usually with the strongest infield arm. Rewards range, quick decisions and arm strength.
- Third base (5)
- Fields hard-hit balls down the line and makes long throws across the diamond. Rewards quick reactions and a strong arm.
The outfield
- Left field (7) and right field (9)
- Catch fly balls, cut off balls hit down the lines, back up throws and keep runners from taking extra bases. Right field often needs the stronger arm because of the long throw to third base.
- Center field (8)
- Covers the most outfield ground and calls off other fielders on balls in the gaps. Rewards speed, good reads off the bat and communication.
Positions for young players
- Let kids try several positions. Younger players are still developing, and rotating through spots helps them learn the game and find what they enjoy.
- Skills matter more than the label. Catching the ball, a good throw and good decisions carry across positions.
- Be thoughtful about pitching and catching. Both are demanding on the arm. Follow your league's limits and give players time to rest.
- Leagues set their own rules. Some require equal playing time or defensive rotation. Ask your coach.
In BlackForge Sports: each player has a card built from scored games, so batting, pitching and fielding numbers show up for whichever positions a player plays during the season. Get early access →
Which stats go with which positions
Every player bats, but fielding and pitching stats depend on position. Putouts, assists and errors track fielding, and ERA and WHIP track pitchers. Definitions are in our baseball stats glossary.
Frequently asked questions
What are the nine positions in baseball?
Pitcher, catcher, first baseman, second baseman, shortstop, third baseman, left fielder, center fielder and right fielder.
What number is each baseball position?
Scorebook numbers: 1 pitcher, 2 catcher, 3 first base, 4 second base, 5 third base, 6 shortstop, 7 left field, 8 center field, 9 right field.
What position should a young player play?
Let young players try several positions. Skills such as catching, throwing and decision-making carry across spots, and rotating helps them find what they enjoy.
Which positions are hardest on the arm?
Pitching and catching are especially demanding. Follow your league's pitch limits and rest rules, and make sure players get real breaks.