What is more important in a 1st baseman?

[3Bsnag]

to ask the question another way, How many coaches will play a lefty at third?

As a general rule, a lefty would have to be head and shoulders above the rest to play 2B, SS, or 3B, especially the latter two. She would have to have exceptional footwork and speed which I think wouldn't be the case at the older age groups.

Although I did see a very talented lefty 2B this year in college, I just can't remember which one. She was sharp though.

[Martin]

Playing a rightie at 1b: Not a big disadvantage. The conventional wisdom that says lefties should play 1b comes from baseball, where a leftie has a big advantage on pickoff plays. As far as fielding, a leftie has better range toward 2b and a rightie can guard against extra base hits down the line. Pick your poison.

Playing a leftie at 3b: Still a big problem, due to the number of throws to 1b a F5 makes. This is especially challenging on bunt defense where F5 must charge, field, change her feet then throw. Still, if a leftie proves she's the best at the position, the decision is pretty easy!

[Lefty's Dad]

Although I did see a very talented lefty 2B this year in college, I just can't remember which one. She was sharp though.

The second baseman for Texas A&M was a lefty, not sure if it's the one on their current roster (I assume it is still) her name is Natalie Villareal from Frisco, TX.

[ballguy]

I look for good hands and footwork. Doesn't matter to me if the player is tall or not. I would rather have a ball player who has great hands and footwork anytime.

[smmartin]

The first position is quite different in softball than in baseball because there is no pick off play so the right vs left question dosent contend to me. I pick the girl who can stretch the farthest with the best dig and foot work. Also i look for agressivness for the bunt. I also like a girl that can range and catch the fly ball well especially one that can find a foul and the fence and make that play.