The Bases and Foul Lines: 1877: National League of Professional Base Ball Clubs

Baseball history diagram: Bases and Foul Lines: 1877: National League of Professional Base Ball Clubs. Beginning in 1877, first, second and third bases were to be 15" x 15" and rotated one quarter-turn from their position in 1876. The rules for the 1877 season stated that 15' and 50' lines, corresponding to the Foul Ball Lines, were specified to be marked on the playing field. These lines were drawn to aid the umpire in keeping the players and coaches the correct distance from the playing field. Their lengths were not specified. Click diagram to return to previous page.