Rules of Baseball in Plain English – How the Game Works

Baseball is the national sport of Finland. It is similar to baseball but played with different rules, field shape, and a vertical pitch. This guide explains the basic rules of baseball in simple terms – perfect for beginners and international fans.

 The Goal of the Game

Two teams take turns playing offense (batting) and defense (fielding) .
The goal is to score runs by running through all bases and returning home.

 Teams and Players

• Each team has 9 main players who play both offense and defense.
• Additionally, there can be up to 3 "joker" players who participate only in offense.
• Jokers can bat in any order depending on the decision of the coach.
• Jokers wear distinctive jerseys to differentiate them from other players.

 Game Flow

1. The pitcher throws the ball vertically into the air at home base.
2. The batter attempts to hit the ball and runs towards first base.
3. The runner tries to advance from base to base with the help of subsequent batters.
4. The defensive team tries to get the runner out by getting the ball to the base before the runner arrives.
5. A run is scored when the runner completes the circuit and returns to home base.

 Innings and Periods

• A game consists of two periods , each with a series of half-innings .
• In each half-inning, one team bats while the other fields.
• A half-inning ends when three outs are made.
• If the game is tied after two periods, a super inning and, if necessary, a tiebreaker are played.

 How to Score a Run

• The batter hits the ball and advances through all bases.
• Each player who successfully returns to home base scores one run for the team.

 When is a player out?

• A runner is out if the defense gets the ball to the base before the runner arrives.
• The batter fails to hit a fair ball within three attempts.
• A runner leaves the base too early or violates other rules.

 Quick Summary

Interested in playing or learning more?
Check out beginner-friendly equipment and tips at suomipesis.fi