The Bases and Foul Lines: 1868–1870: National Association of Base-Ball Players

Baseball history diagram: Bases and Foul Lines: 1868–1870: National Association of Base-Ball Players. Starting in 1861, the third and first base Foul Ball Lines were specified in the playing rules to be marked on the playing field. They extended from the center of Home Base to the 30 yard mark at third and first base only. De Witt's Base-Ball Guide for 1869 stated that these lines should extend 15-20 feet past the base to aid the umpire. Click diagram to return to previous page.