On Deck

On deck refers to the batter who is next in line to hit in the batting order. This player waits in a designated area called the "on-deck circle" while the current batter is at the plate.

The On-Deck Circle

The on-deck circle is a circular area, typically 5 feet in diameter, located between the dugout and home plate. There are two on-deck circles, one for each team, positioned on their respective sides of the field.

What Players Do On Deck

While on deck, batters typically:

• Warm up with practice swings
• Use a weighted bat or donut to make their game bat feel lighter
• Time the pitcher to get a feel for velocity and movement
• Watch pitch sequences to anticipate what they might see
• Get mentally prepared for their at-bat

Origin of the Term

The phrase "on deck" comes from naval terminology, meaning "on the ship's deck and ready for action." Baseball adopted many nautical terms in its early days.

In the Hole

The batter after the on-deck hitter is said to be "in the hole" they're two spots away from batting. This gives them even more time to prepare for their at-bat.

On-Deck Safety

For safety reasons, on-deck batters should:

• Stay in the on-deck circle
• Be aware of foul balls
• Not distract the batter at the plate
• Be ready to move when called to the plate