Set up the field

Each defensive player takes a position on the field. The shortstop, second baseman, and outfielders stand in the middle of their areas. The rest of the players stand on specific spots pitcher on the mound, first and third basemen on their bases, catcher behind home plate. The batter stands in either the left (right handed) or right (left handed) batting box on one side of home plate. The umpire briefly checks to verify that everyone is in the proper position, then shouts play ball to begin the game.