In fastpitch softball, the first batter is frequently a swift left-handed batter who can bunt or slap bunt his way to first base. If your club lacks such a player, the lead-off batter is the one with the highest on-base percentage numbers. He will usually be given the green light by the coach after one or two pitches from the catcher. The first batter in softball is called the "lead-off man." This person starts the game with a bang by taking a pitch, then walking or being awarded free passes based on how many balls he has seen during the inning. The lead-off man is often named after a favorite baseball player. For example, if the player was Joe DiMaggio, then the lead-off man's name would be Joe D. . After the lead-off man reaches first base, the next hitter comes up. This person is called upon to get on base so that there are men available to score when the pitcher throws the ball. If the next player doesn't get a hit, then the batting order gets shuffled and the process begins again. In short, the first batter gets a chance to put pressure on the pitcher with a walk or an award of free passes. This sends a message to the pitcher that he needs to keep him off balance by throwing different pitches.