t as the runners try to advance around the diamond. The right fielder, center fielder, and left fielders occupy the outfield. These positions try to catch or throw runners out if the ball is hit in their vicinity. When one team is in the field, the other team takes its turn to bat (one at a time). Rules on batting are different for the two leagues in the United States. In the National League, the pitcher bats. In the American League, a player called designated hitter bats for the pitcher, but does not play the field.
             There is special equipment required to play baseball. Basic equipment consists of a hard ball, wooden or aluminum bat, a padded leather glove for each player for catching the ball, cleated shoes, and a protective helmet for the batter. Catchers wear unique equipment such as a helmet, a cage-like mask, a padded chest protector, and shin guards because a pitcher can throw a ball up to speeds of 100 miles per hour.
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