Kickball Player Positions
Kickball is just like baseball and softball in that there are certain player positions for fielders that are recommended but not enforced. The only required positions in kickball are the pitcher, catcher, and basemen. It is up to the coach or manager of the team to define how to structure the positions and alignment on the field.
Kickball Positions
Kickball teams typically consist of nine players on the field during an inning. Some leagues allow up to 12 players on the field at one time during an inning. We will assume your league is playing with nine fielders in the lineup.
There are nine basic field positions in kickball:
- Pitcher (P)
- Catcher (C)
- 1st Baseman (1B)
- 2nd Baseman (2B)
- 3rd Baseman (3B)
- Shortstop (SS)
- Center Fielder (CF)
- Right Fielder (RF)
- Left Fielder (LF)
If your kickball league allows for more than nine players on the field, it is recommended for those players to fill in extra gaps in the outfield or between the bases.
Most kickball leagues have a rule that states fielders must stand a minimum distance away from the kicker while they are at bat. This is called proper field position and requires all players to be behind a diagonal line created by first base and third base. This line is called the 1st to 3rd diagonal.
The Pitcher
In a kickball game, you'll always have a pitcher. Pitcher is one of the most important positions, since they pitch the ball to the kicker every play. If you're playing pitcher, make sure you understand the strike zone and how to throw various types of pitches. In some situations, you may need to cover first base to get an out.
The Catcher
If you're playing catcher, you will stand behind home plate and catch pitches thrown by the pitcher. Make sure you don't interfere with the batter, but be ready to catch balls thrown to you on plays at home plate. If you see a runner trying to steal a base, you will have to throw the ball quickly to a baseman for an out.
The Basemen
As a baseman, you should be prepared to apply a force-out, by tagging the base. You should also be ready to tag out a base runner if they come your way or catch a ball coming at you. There are three basemen positions you can play:
Outfielders
As an outfielder, you'll stand in the outfield either in center field, right field, or left field. Your job is just as important as an infielder. You are the last line of defense for a hard kicked ball near the fence.
If you are playing with eleven fielders, you will also have either a right or left center fielder and a short fielder. Left center stands in between the center fielder and left fielder. The short field position is located directly behind second base, in the outfield.
Shortstop
Just like in baseball, the shortstop in kickball covers ground balls and line drives that fly between 2nd base and 3rd base. As a shortstop, you should be ready to retrieve the ball and throw to the 1st baseman and 2nd baseman for an out.
FAQ
How many players are on a kickball team?
Most kickball teams should have at least nine players so that every position in the field is covered. Some leagues will vary the number of players they allow, some having twelve or more players at a time. However, the official rules of kickball allow between 8 and 10 players to be playing the field.
How many athletes are on the field in kickball at once?
The number of players in the field during kickball varies. Most frequently, kickball teams will either have 8, 9, or 10 players on the field at once. With 10 players, an extra position in the outfield is created.
Are kickball and baseball positions the same?
For the most part, kickball and baseball positions are very similar. Since both sports use the same field, kickball players stand in the same areas as their counterparts in baseball and work to cover the same spots on the field during games. The main difference is the ball and how it is used.
Which kickball position is the hardest?
Every kickball position can be difficult. The hardest position varies based on a player’s skills. Someone who can catch the ball very easily would say that playing in the outfield is very easy, but it could be extremely difficult for another player. Try out every position and see which works best for you!