Why do baserunners run counterclockwise?

Answer

Well, I do not know the whole detail to this question but can give some insight. The reason why baseball players run the bases counter clockwise along with NASCAR, INDY, horse racing, dogs, running counter clockwise etc., has a lot to do with the American Revolution. Early Americans hated the British so much they wanted to do almost eveything opposite to their rules. In England and Europe, they run car and horse races clockwise, and I think Cricket runs clockwise as well, although they do not have a diamond like American Baseball. Hope that helps!  

Answer

It's a matter of biology. Since most people are right-handed, throwing a baseball from 3B/SS/2B to 1B is best suited for right-handed players.
If the basepaths ran in the opposite direction, it would very difficult for right-handed players to throw well without turning their bodies 180 degrees.
This also is why there are no left-handed players at 3B/SS/2B.
Most hitters are also right handed, meaning that they face down what is now the first base line when batting. This makes it easier to run counterclockwise, as they are already facing that direction.
The biology theory may have some merit, but I don't buy the right handed batter part. A left handed batter is quicker to first than a right hander running the same speed because: 1. he is a foot and a half closer to the base and 2. The momentum of his swing naturally propels him toward first while the righty tends toward third.
 

Answer

I think it's because most people are right footed and they can push of the bag easier with their dominate foot.

First answer by Timcamerato. Last edit by Robert T. Mitchell. Contributor trust: 0 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 223 [recommend question].