What Are The Baseball Position Numbers?

A quick guide to understanding the numbers associated with positions in baseball.

The Infield

The infield is the area of the baseball field closest to the batter. It typically consists of four positions: first base, second base, third base, and shortstop. Each position is assigned a number, which is used to keep track of player statistics. Let’s take a closer look at each position.

First Base- #3

First basemen are often strong hitters who can also provide some power. They need to be able to stretch to catch throws from infielders and have quick feet to be able to get in position to receive a pick-off throw. First basemen also need to be able to field bunts cleanly.

Second Base- #4

Second base is considered the keystone of the infield. In baseball statistics, second basemen are often compared to shortstops because both positions range defensively between second and third base. However, second basemen are shorter on average than shortstops and have less range because they generally start their plays closer to first base due to the need to cover more ground on double plays.

The number four is typically worn by second basemen. The second baseman’s role is similar to that of the shortstop, but there are some key differences. The second baseman needs to be able to field bunts down the first base line and run them out into foul territory in order to prevent extra bases. They also need to be able turn a double play from deep in the infield.

Third Base- #5

The third baseman, abbreviated 3B, is the player in baseball whose responsibility is to defend the area nearest to third base. This position is of great importance and is considered one of the most difficult positions to play. The third baseman must be quick and have a strong arm to make the long throw across the infield. Third basemen are also required to have good hand-eye coordination and deceptive speed.

The Outfield

Left Field- #7

According to most baseball references, the outfield positions are numbered 7, 8, and 9. These numbers represent the order in which the outfielders will play depending on the handedness of the batter. For a right-handed batter, the outfielder playing in left field will have the number 7, the center fielder will have the number 8, and the right fielder will have the number 9. These numbers reverse for a left-handed batter, with left field being #9, center field being #8, and right field being #7.

Center Field- #8

The center fielder, who wears the number 8, is the captain of the outfield. He has the most territory to cover of any defensive player and must be able to run long distances at high speeds. A center fielder must also have a strong arm to be able to make long throws to home plate or third base. Because of all these responsibilities, the center fielder is often considered the most important defensive player on the team.

Right Field- #9

Right field is generally #9 in the batting order. The right fielder is often times one of the best athletes on the team because they need to cover a lot of ground. They need to have a good arm to make throws from deep in the outfield.

The Pitcher

The pitcher is the leader of the baseball diamond. His job is to throw the ball over the plate and allow the batter to try and hit it. The pitcher must also field his position when a batter hits the ball. He has to be able to catch the ball and throw it to the correct base.

The Starting Pitcher- #1

The starting pitcher is the player who pitches the first pitch of the game for his team. He is considered the most important player on the team, as his performance will set the tone for the game. The starting pitcher is also known as the ace of the staff. The ace is usually the best pitcher on the team and is relied upon to win big games.

The Relief Pitcher- #2

The relief pitcher (2) is who comes in when the game is close and the starting pitcher (1) is losing energy. He tries to “relieve” the starting pitcher by coming in and getting outs. If the game is still close after he pitches, then he hands the ball off to the closer (3), who tries to finish the game.

Pitchers typically specialize in one of two roles, starting pitcher or reliever, although some are versatile enough to do both. A small number of pitchers are also used as pinch hitters or as defensive replacements in late innings of games when a team is leading by a large margin.

Relief pitchers are typically used in a close game situation, often when the starting pitcher has expended his energy or reach his maximum pitch count for the game. A relief pitcher enters the game with his team either ahead or behind in the score, and attempts to preserve his team’s lead or reduce its deficit.