Softball terms for new parents

How to use this glossary

Softball has its own language, and it can sound like a secret code at your first game. These are the terms parents hear most often, in plain English. Some details differ by league, so ask your coach if something here does not match what you hear. For the full rules, see softball rules for beginners.

The game

Inning

One turn for each team to bat and play defense. A team's turn ends after three outs.

Out

When a batter or runner is removed from play, for example by a strikeout, catch or tag.

Run

A point, scored when a player touches all four bases in order.

Fastpitch

The version of softball where pitchers throw hard and fast, underhand.

Slowpitch

The version of softball where the pitcher throws the ball in a high, slow arc.

Windmill

The circular underhand arm motion fastpitch pitchers commonly use.

Pitcher's circle

The circle around the pitcher's plate (the rubber) where the pitcher stands and pitches.

Batting terms

At-bat

A batter's turn at the plate.

Strike

A pitch in the strike zone, or a swing and miss. A foul ball is usually a strike too. Three strikes is an out.

Ball

A pitch outside the strike zone that the batter does not swing at. Four balls is a walk.

Walk

When the batter takes first base after four balls.

Foul ball

A batted ball that lands outside the foul lines.

Bunt

A short, soft hit made by tapping the ball with the bat without a full swing.

Slap hit

A fastpitch technique where a batter moves toward the pitch and hits the ball on the ground, aiming to run quickly to first.

Running terms

Safe

The umpire's call that a runner reached a base before being put out.

Steal

When a runner tries to advance to the next base on a pitch, without a hit. In fastpitch the runner may not leave until the pitcher releases the ball. Rules vary, and slowpitch usually restricts it.

Tag up

When a runner returns to touch their base after a fly ball is caught, then advances.

Force out

An out made by touching a base with the ball when a runner has to move to that base.

Tag

When a fielder touches a runner with the ball to record an out.

Defense terms

Infield fly

A rule that protects runners in certain situations by calling the batter out on an easily caught fly ball. Your coach can explain how your league applies it.

Double play

One play that results in two outs.

Error

A misplay by a fielder that allows a batter or runner to reach or advance when an out should have been made.

Battery

The pitcher and catcher together.

DP/Flex

Roles in some rule sets where a designated player bats without playing defense, often paired with a flex player on the field.

Back up

To position behind a teammate so a missed ball or bad throw does not go far.

Keep learning

Once you know the language, the game is easier to enjoy. Read softball positions explained to see who stands where, or visit the softball guides hub. Do not worry about learning everything at once. Most parents pick it up one game at a time, and most coaches are glad to answer questions.

A few extra tips: terms sometimes change slightly between leagues, and younger divisions may skip some rules entirely, so what you read here is a starting point. Scorekeepers also use shorthand letters and numbers for positions and plays, and you can ask the person keeping the book to explain it. Many parents find it helpful to jot down one or two unfamiliar words at each game and look them up afterward. Within a few weeks, the chatter from the dugout starts to make sense.

Listen for the words your coach uses and the calls your umpire makes, and ask when something is unclear. Players and parents who ask questions usually learn the game faster and enjoy it more.