1948 MLB Baseball Field Layout Diagram by Osborn Engineering
The page from the 1949 Sporting News Baseball Guide provides a detailed schematic of the official measurements for laying out a baseball field. It includes precise dimensions necessary for setting up a standard baseball diamond, which consists of bases 15 inches square placed 90 feet apart. Home plate is positioned in the shape of a 17-inch pentagon, facilitating fair gameplay and adherence to official rules. The pitcher's mound, notably, is centered 60 feet, 6 inches from home plate, reflecting key regulations of the sport. Additionally, the diagram specifies areas like the coach's boxes and player's lines, with foul lines extending at least 250 feet from home plate. This setup ensures a standardized field of play across ballparks, thereby maintaining consistency in competitive play. Produced by the Osborn Engineering Co. of Cleveland, Ohio, it emphasizes accuracy in field construction, a critical factor for teams and stadiums alike.