On a ball hit to any infielder, the first baseman hustles quickly to the bag to establish himself as a target. He wants to catch the ball as soon as possible and, simultaneously, tag the base for the put-out. He will be knocked down by the runner, however, if he stands on top of the base. If he stands in back of the base and the runner passes between him and the thrown ball, the ball is apt to hit the runner and the put-out opportunity will be lost. The only logical place to stand and receive the ball is in front of the base.

As soon as the first baseman determines that he will not be fielding the ball, he runs to the base, placing his feet so the heels touch the side nearest the fielder. In this position, he doesn’t have to turn his head away from the fielder to locate the base. He knows where it is. He also knows the runner has room to cross the bag. Thus, he need only concentrate on the throw. Baseball Training - Read More.