Many associations are adopting the use of a DOUBLE FIRST BASE to minimize collisions and reduce the chance of injuries at first base.

When using a DOUBLE FIRST BASE the following applies:

• The DEFENSE MUST use the WHITE portion and the BATTER-RUNNER MUST use the COLORED portion of the base when a PLAY is being made on the batter-runner.
  
• The batter-runner can be called OUT when a play is being made and they touch the WHITE portion ONLY.  This is considered over running first base and the defense must APPEAL before the batter-runner returns to touch EITHER portion of the base.
• The batter-runner MAY USE the WHITE or COLORED portion of the base while ADVANCING on balls hit to the OUTFIELD while no plays are being attempted on the base, while RETURNING to first base, while TAGGING UP to advance on a fly ball, or returning to the base on an attempted PICK OFF.  The DEFENSE may also use BOTH portions on these plays or appeals.

INTERFERENCE is called when a collision occurs during a force play and the batter-runner touches ONLY the WHITE portion of the base.

OBSTRUCTION (Delayed Dead Ball) is ruled when a collision occurs during a force play and the fielder (along with the batter-runner) is touching the COLORED portion of the base ONLY.

The DEFENSE and the BATTER-RUNNER may use BOTH PORTIONS of the base on force-out attempts from the foul side of the base, or on errant throws that pull the fielder into foul ground.

Umpires, coaches, and captains should discuss the use of a double first base during the pre-game conference if they are unfamiliar with its use.


Rules Reference: NFHS 8-10 / ASA 2-3h; 8-2M / USSSA 8.19 / NSA 8-8z / PONY 3-6a