{"id":1629,"date":"2023-05-28T13:42:26","date_gmt":"2023-05-28T20:42:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/softballace.com\/?p=1629"},"modified":"2023-07-20T07:52:31","modified_gmt":"2023-07-20T14:52:31","slug":"softball-pitch-vs-baseball-pitch","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/softballace.com\/softball-pitch-vs-baseball-pitch\/","title":{"rendered":"Softball Pitch vs Baseball Pitch: The 5 Key Differences"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

If you’re a fan of baseball or softball, you may have noticed that the pitches in each sport are quite different. While both sports involve throwing a ball towards the batter, the way the ball is thrown and the speed at which it travels can vary significantly.<\/strong> In this article, we’ll explore the differences between softball pitches and baseball pitches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A key difference between softball and baseball pitches is the type of pitches that are commonly used in each sport. While baseball pitchers may use a variety of pitches, including fastballs, curveballs, and sliders, softball pitchers typically rely on just a few different types of pitches.<\/strong> These include the fastball, changeup, and riseball. Additionally, softball pitchers may use a windmill motion to generate more power and speed in their pitches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Field Size and Dimensions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to softball and baseball, one of the most obvious differences is the size of the playing field. While both sports are played on a diamond-shaped field, there are some significant differences in the size of a softball field<\/a> and that of a baseball field.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The pitching circle in softball is also smaller than the pitching mound in baseball. In softball, the pitching circle has a diameter of 16 feet, while in baseball, the pitching mound is a raised area that is 18 feet in diameter and 10 inches higher than home plate. The pitching rubber in baseball is 60 feet, 6 inches away from home plate, while in softball, it is 43 feet away. Even though they’re pitching from different distances, that actually causes the pitches to be much more alike; creating similar reaction times for both baseball and softball hitters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Home plate is also a key component of both softball and baseball fields. In both sports, home plate is a pentagon-shaped plate that is 17 inches wide at the back and 8.5 inches wide at the front. In softball, the plate is set at ground level, while in baseball, it is raised slightly above the ground.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Differences in Pitching Style<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Pitching in softball and baseball is quite different. In softball, the pitching technique is underhand<\/a>, while in baseball, it is overhand. The difference in pitching style affects the speed, accuracy, and movement of the ball.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Injury Risk<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Ever wondered how come you see the same pitcher going game after game for a softball team, then see their baseball counterpart use four different pitchers just to get through one game? This is because softball pitching is underhand, which is a more natural motion for the shoulder. In contrast, overhand pitching in baseball can put repeated strain on a pitcher’s biceps tendon, which connects to their shoulder. This can lead to injuries such as rotator cuff tears, elbow tendinitis, and shoulder impingement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Softball pitchers are allowed to pitch more games in a row than baseball pitchers. This is because underhand pitching puts less strain on the body. In softball, pitchers can pitch up to three games in a day, while in baseball, pitchers are usually limited to one game per day. However, softball pitchers can still suffer from injuries<\/a> if they overuse their arm or pitch with incorrect technique.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To reduce the risk of injury, it is essential to warm up properly before pitching and use proper technique. Softball pitchers should focus on their leg drive and hip rotation to generate power, while baseball pitchers should focus on their arm motion and release point. Both softball and baseball pitchers should also work on their flexibility and strength to prevent injuries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ball Size and Speed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ball Size<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A major factor affecting the speed of the pitch is the size and weight of the ball. Softballs are larger and heavier than baseballs, making them more difficult to throw at high speeds; the larger size of a softball makes it harder to cut through the air, which puts an increased focus on spin-rate. The weight of a softball is around 6.25 ounces, while a baseball weighs around 5.25 ounces. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Speed Comparison<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On average, baseball pitches are faster than softball pitches<\/a>. The current average pitch speed in Major League Baseball (MLB) is around 93.9 miles per hour (MPH), while the average softball pitch speed is around 60 MPH. However, it’s important to note that the speed varies depending on several factors, including the age and skill level of the pitcher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In fastpitch softball, the fastest pitches can reach up to approximately 75 miles per hour. This is comparable to the speed of some professional baseball pitchers. A 75 mph softball pitch actually gives less reaction time for the hitter than a 95 mph baseball pitch!<\/strong> Here’s a video breaking down the science behind it all:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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