Slow-pitch Softball And Fast-pitch Softball – How Are They Different
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The Difference of Slow-pitch Softball And Fast-pitch Softball
Although softball is predominantly played by females, it is a sport that both women and men enjoy especially during the summer. Softball has two major types – the fast pitch softball and the slow pitch softball. Although they look similar, they have their own dissimilarities that makes them different from each other.
One apparent difference, which is clearly shown in the name, is the pitching speed. However, this isn’t the just the difference. Let’s have a look for us to clearly understand how slow pitch and fast pitch softball are different.
- PITCHING. In fastpitch softball, the pitcher does a winding motion of his/her arm prior to releasing/throwing the ball underarm. The winding motion, similar to a windmill, allows the build-up of momentum. Hence, this increases the speed of the ball when thrown. Typically, fastpitch balls are pitched in upwards angle and the speeds could go beyond 50-60 mph. When the ball is thrown in slow-pitch softball, there isn’t any winding motion. The pitcher, instead, takes a step forward and throws the ball underarm. Hence, the speed of the ball is slower.
- BUNTING. Players, in fast-pitch softball, are allowed to hold the softball bat through the strike zone so as to hit the ball without the need to swing it. This is called bunting. This is more of a sacrifice play, wherein it advances a runner from the first base to the second base, or from the second base to the third base at the expense of an out. Bunting is slow-pitch softball isn’t’ allowed.
- BASE STEALING. The rules of the sport would differ depending on the league or organization. In general, however, fastpitch softball permits more freedom in terms of base stealing. The Amateur Softball Association, for example, says that slow-pitch softball players are just permitted to leave/depart the base once the ball passes over the home plate. On the other hand, in fastpitch softball, players are allowed to stand a few feet away from the base they are in or try to steal a base prior to the ball pitch.
- SCORING. Since slow-pitch softball has slower speeds in pitching, the innings are usually longer which means more runs. For teams who depend on a solid offense however could be a handicap for teams who favor a solid defense.