Lining your Ballfield on Game Day
This page will go over the basics on how to set up a field for game day.
Safety First
The first and foremost step in the field prep is to make sure the field is safe to play on. Then, drag the field out by using a drag mat or nail drag. Making sure not to drag any infield dirt onto the grass.
Pulling the String Line
The sting used to help mark out the fair line is pulled from the back (apex) of the home plate. Pull the string out to the established fair line in the outfield grass. If no fair line is set up in the outfield, have someone else help you line up the string. When pulling the string make sure it is lined up on the outside of the base. (see picture)
The Fair Line
When lining the Fair line, apply the chalk to the inside of the string line. As a result the line will match up with the base like the picture to the right. Make sure to shut the liner off when going over the base.
The Batter Box
There are three (3) different sizes for the batter box. The sizes are 4'x6' (Babe Ruth and up); 3'x6' (Little League); 3'x7' (Softball).
The easiest way to chalk out the batter box is to use a batter box templete that can be purchased from equipment suppliers or can be made out of pvc piping.
If a templete is not available for you, get someone else to help you measure out the box. Use the link on the left to get a better idea on how to set it up. There is really no wrong way on how to set it up, just as long as it is square with home plate. (Stand at the pitching mound after you chalk the box to know what I mean.)
And remember the chalk isn't permanent, if you mess up just rake it out and start over.
Below is a link to a web page with field and batter box dimensions.
http://turf.missouri.edu/stat/baseball
A templete is an easy way to mark out a batter's box.
This is the size of a babe ruth batter's box. (Above)
This is the size of a little league batter's box. (Above)
The measurements for a softball field.(Above) The batter box measurements are the same for all age levels.