Let the pitcher run to the base for you and just toss them the ball. If the ball is hit to you or down the first base line, concentrate on fielding it, don't worry about running to the base.
Stand a few steps behind and to the right of the base so that you can cover more space in the infield. There is always a force to first, so you need to be ready, for a throw from anywhere. You need to keep in mind how many outs there are and where the force is in order to make the best decision about where and how to make the play and keep the offense from gaining extra bases and scoring runs. When your team is on defense, it's called, 'playing the field.' You will either be an infielder or an outfielder.
