What must all fielders except for the catcher do at the time of the pitch?

All fielders, except for the catcher, must be in fair territory at the time of the pitch because this is a requirement outlined in the rules of baseball to ensure that the game is played in a fair manner. The positioning of fielders helps maintain the integrity of the game, allowing them to defend against batted balls effectively.

If fielders were positioned in foul territory, it could lead to confusion regarding their ability to make plays on the ball, as they would not be legally allowed to make a play unless they stepped into fair territory first. The requirement also supports equitable play between teams, ensuring that both offensive and defensive actions occur within the defined playing area.

Being in the dugout or behind the batter does not comply with the regulations governing how fielders should be positioned during a pitch. This structured positioning promotes safety and gameplay consistency, which is crucial for the sport.