Translation guide
The infield in baseball refers to the area of the field inside the bases and the players who defend that area. This guide covers how to express this concept naturally in Japanese, from the physical area to the defensive players.
Referring to the dirt area inside the bases, or the general infield region.
The standard term for the infield area. Used in all contexts.
ボールが内野を転がった。
The ball rolled through the infield.
Refers specifically to the diamond shape formed by the bases. More common in describing the layout.
ピッチャーがダイヤモンドの中心に立っている。
The pitcher is standing in the center of the diamond.
Referring to the group of players who defend the infield positions.
The standard term for infielders as a group. Can be used for one or more players.
彼は内野手としてプレーしている。
He plays as an infielder.
Refers to the infield defense as a unit. Used when talking about the defensive alignment or performance.
このチームは内野の守備が堅い。
This team has a solid infield defense.
Referring to individual positions like first base, shortstop, etc.
First base. Also used for the first baseman.
彼はファーストを守っている。
He is playing first base.
Second base. Also used for the second baseman.
Third base. Also used for the third baseman.
Shortstop. The most common term.
Formal term for shortstop. Used in written reports or formal commentary.
A batted ball that stays in the infield and results in a hit.
The standard term for an infield hit. Often shortened to 内安 (ないあん) in casual contexts.
俊足の打者が内野安打で出塁した。
The speedy batter reached base on an infield hit.
内野 (infield) and 外野 (がいや, outfield) are the two main areas of the baseball field. Use 内野 for the dirt area and the players there, and 外野 for the grass area and outfielders.
内野と外野の連携が重要だ。
Coordination between the infield and outfield is important.
In casual conversation, Japanese speakers often use the English loanwords (ファースト, セカンド, etc.) for positions. The formal Japanese terms (一塁手, 二塁手, etc.) are used in written media or formal settings.
セカンドが難しい打球をさばいた。
The second baseman handled a difficult grounder.
The throw from third base was off target.
The shortstop threw to first from deep in the hole.
遊撃手の守備範囲は広い。
The shortstop's defensive range is wide.