baseman

A baseman is an infielder in baseball who primarily fields plays at the bases. The term is most commonly used to describe players who occupy first base, second base, or third base, though in some contexts it can refer to any infielder who handles base-related plays. In official scoring, the positions are listed as first base, second base, and third base, with other infielders such as the shortstop and the pitcher and catcher serving distinct roles.

First basemen, second basemen, and third basemen share core responsibilities of fielding ground balls, catching throws from teammates, and tagging runners trying to reach or leave a base. First basemen are often required to catch throws hit to the area around first base, receive bunts, and complete plays at the bag. Second basemen and third basemen typically handle more dynamic fielding tasks, including turning double plays, covering lines, and fielding sharply hit balls. The second baseman and shortstop usually coordinate on double plays, while the third baseman plays many balls hit up the line and often has a strong throwing arm to retire runners at first.

Skills associated with basemen include reliable glove work, quick feet, good coordination with teammates, and accurate throwing. Because of base-path mechanics, left-handed throwers are uncommon at second and third base, though left-handed players are more commonly found at first base. Overall, the term baseman identifies infielders who defend near the bases and contribute to the defense through fielding, tagging, and base-coverage plays.