OPINION | “The Green Bag at First Base: Safety or an Unfair Advantage?”

IS THE GREEN BAG AT 1ST NECESSARY?

Sports Reporter Collective

Monday, March 31, 2025

By Raegan Skarda | Columnist

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. –  On January 28th, the NCAA implemented a new rule based on recommendations from the NCAA Division I Baseball Committee. The addition of the green bag at first base aims to enhance player safety, but does it also make reaching base easier? While minimizing collisions is crucial, some argue that the change could impact the competitive nature of the game.

The double first base features a white bag for the first baseman and a green (or orange) bag for runners advancing on a ball in play. Batters must touch the green bag to be safe, while the white bag is used for defensive plays. The biggest advantage is reducing collisions. A shared bag forces runners and first basemen into close quarters, increasing injury risks. The separate bags create safer conditions, which is why the SEC has tested this system in conference tournaments.

With a traditional bag, runners and first basemen compete for space. The green bag eliminates this factor, potentially giving runners a slight advantage in close plays. The green bag prioritizes safety, but it also changes gameplay. Some may argue it makes reaching base too easy. The question remains: should baseball prioritize tradition, or continue evolving for player safety?

“The question remains: should baseball prioritize tradition, or continue evolving for player safety?”

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REPORTER’S BIO | Raegan Skarda is a junior majoring in journalism in the School of Journalism and Strategic Media at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.

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Raegan Skarda

Note: Featured photo by Kenny Eliason on Unsplash.