How many players are there in a softball team ?

There are nine players in a regulation softball team. However, some youth leagues and slow-pitch leagues allow 10 players. Teams may also have substitutes, who are often referred to as pinch hitters, pinch runners or relief pitchers.

On defense, the players occupy nine positions, including the pitcher. In the infield, there are six positions: pitcher, catcher, first base, second base, third base and shortstop. In the outfield, there are three positions: left field, right field and center field. In youth leagues or slow-pitch softball, there is an extra fielder.

On offense, the nine players bat in a pre-specified order. Some softball organizations allow teams to use a designated hitter. That means that a player who isn't on the defensive team may bat in place of the pitcher.