The answer depends upon level of play.
At lower levels, P can cover 1B. My DD covered the line in TB and HS until college. As soon as got to college, she couldn't do it.
Reasons:
1) Runners are quicker.
2) She was the worst defensive player on the field in college. In HS and TB, she was one of the best.
3) More focus on pitching is required in college.
In your ordinary college lineup, probably 5 players can get down the line at 3 seconds or better. If you don't cover with your 1B, you end up making the 7, 8 and 9 batters .500 hitters.
As a TB coach or HS coach, you have to decide whether you are going to teach the correct way for college or the easy way now.
Many, many times.
Why? 90 ft. vs. 60 feet. 4 sec vs. 3 sec.During my baseball days (playing and coaching), down the line was played by the pitcher. Why are we doing it differently in softball?
At lower levels, P can cover 1B. My DD covered the line in TB and HS until college. As soon as got to college, she couldn't do it.
Reasons:
1) Runners are quicker.
2) She was the worst defensive player on the field in college. In HS and TB, she was one of the best.
3) More focus on pitching is required in college.
In your ordinary college lineup, probably 5 players can get down the line at 3 seconds or better. If you don't cover with your 1B, you end up making the 7, 8 and 9 batters .500 hitters.
As a TB coach or HS coach, you have to decide whether you are going to teach the correct way for college or the easy way now.
My question is; with no runners on or a runner on 1st, how many opportunities have been successful in regard to 1st base making a play on a bunt and it being successful?
Many, many times.