Similar to the difference between their names, there is also a difference between a baseball and a softball because baseball measurement ranges between 9 to 9.25 inches with a weight between 5 to 5.25 ounces. On the other hand, softballs are more prominent and weigh more than baseball. The standard weight of a softball is between 6.25 to 7 ounces with a size of 11.88 and 12.13 inches.
Before knowing the difference between a baseball and a softball, you might have wondered that you know the rules of softball because you have played baseball, and if that was the case, now you know that you were wrong. This article specifically addresses the difference between these two look-alike sports, so read till the end for more enticing information regarding both sports.
SO WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A BASEBALL AND A SOFTBALL FIELD
The difference between a baseball and a softball includes many things, and fields are one of them. The fields of play used for softball are smaller than those of baseball as the bases in softball are 60 feet apart, unlike in baseball, where this distance is 90 feet.
Furthermore, baseball’s standard size of the outfield fence is around 400 feet, unlike softball, where the furthest spot on the field is around 220 feet away when measured from home plate.
WHOSE BATS ARE LONGER: BASEBALL OR SOFTBALL
While there are so many similarities between these two games that include various field components such as home plates, some differences exist between them. One of the key differences between a baseball and a softball is the bat size.
The standard bat size used in baseball games is more significant than a softball. Baseball bats are 42 inches long, whereas softball bats are 32 inches longer at max.
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PITCHING BALLS
The most apparent difference between a baseball and a softball that can easily be seen is the way balls are pitched. In baseball games, players pitch the ball overhand, whereas pitchers throw the ball towards the batter underhand in softball.
Another noticeable difference between both sports is the distance between pitchers and batters and the speed of the ball. Baseball pitchers are 60 feet and 6 inches away from home plate before throwing the ball and gaining an average speed of 90 mph.
In the case of softball, the distance between pitcher and batter is 43 feet; moreover, when a pitcher throws the underhand ball towards the batter, it gains the speed of 60 mph. Another difference connected to pitching is the point where the pitcher stands. In baseball, the pitcher pitches from the mound, an elevated point, whereas, in softball, the pitcher throws the ball from a specified pitching circle.
THE DIFFERENCE IN TIME IN EACH SPORT
If you didn’t know the difference between a baseball and a softball before reading this article, you will be stunned because most people think that there are more minor differences and they can be avoided; on the contrary, reality says otherwise.
Remember that baseball games last for 9 innings; however, this time can either increase or decrease due to specific reasons. In extreme weather, the management might end up or cut it short before playing nine innings. Similarly, in case of a tie, they could be extra innings played until either of the two baseball teams win the game.
In the case of softball, the maximum innings played is 7, and in some cases, the match might end earlier when either of the two teams gains a significant lead, making it almost impossible for the opponents to beat their lead. For example, a team can be declared victorious in the early innings in case they lead the game with 15 or above after the third inning or score 7 or above in the 5th inning.
CONCLUSION
There are numerous differences between softball and baseball; however, one of the most evident and noticeable difference between a baseball and a softball is the way pitchers pitch the ball. In baseball, the ball is pitched overhand, whereas, in softball, the ball is thrown underhand. Other noticeable differences include bat size, field size, and the number of innings.
Thank you for reading!