Double First Base Coming to High School Baseball in 2027 to Improve Safety and Clarity

Starting with the 2027 season, high school baseball teams across the country will be required to use a double first base as part of a new rule approved by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS). The rule was one of ten changes proposed by the NFHS Baseball Rules Committee during its annual meeting in June and later approved by the NFHS Board of Directors. The double first base, which features a white half in fair territory and a colored half in foul territory, is designed to reduce collisions between runners and fielders while also providing clearer fair-foul judgments. Runners will use the colored portion when running through first on a play, while fielders will use the white portion. Once a runner reaches base, only the white side can be used for leading off or tagging up. The base also helps eliminate confusion on running lane violations and will now match what is already in use at the college level. Additional rule changes include limiting teams to one defensive player-to-player meeting per half-inning, prohibiting players from wearing or using audio or video recording devices during games, and allowing more flexibility in uniform design starting in 2027. NFHS officials say the changes prioritize safety, pace of play, and modern standards for high school baseball.