Pitch Speed Conversion Calculator

Understanding Pitch Speed and Reaction Time

When comparing pitch speeds across different levels of baseball and softball, the mound distance makes a huge difference. A 70 mph pitch from 46 feet (Little League) gives batters much less time to react than a 70 mph pitch from 60.5 feet (MLB distance).

Complete Mound Distance Guide by League

Understanding mound distances is crucial for comparing pitch speeds across different leagues and tournaments. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of all major baseball and softball organizations.

Baseball Mound Distances - All Major Leagues

Softball Mound Distances - Fastpitch & Slowpitch Leagues

Why Reaction Time Matters More Than Raw Speed

Batters don't just need to react to the speed of the pitch—they need to identify the type of pitch, its location, and decide whether to swing, all within fractions of a second. The reaction time is calculated by dividing the distance from the mound to home plate by the speed of the pitch.

This is why a 60 mph pitch from 35 feet (youth softball) can be just as challenging as a 90 mph pitch from 60.5 feet (MLB). The batter has roughly the same amount of time to react in both scenarios.

Real-World Conversion Examples

Example 1: Little League World Series to MLB

A 70 mph fastball from the Little League World Series mound (46 feet) gives batters approximately 0.45 seconds to react. To achieve the same reaction time from the MLB mound (60.5 feet), a pitcher would need to throw approximately 92 mph. This helps put youth pitch speeds into perspective—young players competing at the Little League World Series in Williamsport, PA, throwing in the 60-70 mph range are dealing with MLB-equivalent reaction times! That's why a 75 mph pitch at the LLWS feels like facing a 98 mph MLB fastball.

Example 2: Cal Ripken / Pony League to High School

A 12-year-old throwing 65 mph from 46 feet (Cal Ripken Majors or Pony Mustang) creates the same reaction time as an 85 mph pitch from the high school/NCAA distance of 60.5 feet. This demonstrates why the best youth pitchers can dominate even though their radar gun readings seem modest compared to older levels.

Example 3: Softball to Baseball Comparison

A college softball pitcher throwing 65 mph from 43 feet gives batters about 0.45 seconds to react. To match this reaction time from the baseball mound (60.5 feet), a pitch would need to be approximately 91 mph. This explains why elite softball and baseball are similarly challenging despite the difference in raw pitch speeds.

How to Use This Calculator for Training

Average Pitch Speeds by Level

Baseball

• Little League (9-12): 50-70 mph
• Intermediate (11-13): 55-75 mph
• Junior League (13-14): 60-80 mph
• High School: 75-90 mph
• College: 85-95 mph
• MLB: 90-100+ mph (fastballs)

Softball

• 10U Softball: 35-45 mph
• 12U Softball: 45-55 mph
• 14U Softball: 50-60 mph
• High School: 55-65 mph
• College: 60-70 mph
• Professional: 65-75 mph

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do softball pitchers throw slower than baseball pitchers?

Softball mounds are significantly closer to home plate (35-43 feet vs 46-60.5 feet for baseball), which means batters have less reaction time despite lower pitch speeds. Additionally, softball uses underhand pitching mechanics, which generates less velocity than overhand throwing.

How accurate is this calculator?

This calculator uses basic physics to compute reaction times based on distance and speed. While it provides accurate reaction time comparisons, real-world hitting involves many other factors like pitch movement, release point, and batter timing. Use these calculations as a helpful comparison tool, not an absolute measure of difficulty.

What's a good pitch speed for my age group?

Pitch speed varies significantly based on player development, strength, and mechanics. Use the average ranges listed above as general guidelines. Focus on proper mechanics and control before worrying about velocity—speed will come naturally with good technique and physical development.

Should I move to a shorter mound to throw harder?

No. Players should pitch from the regulation distance for their age group. Shortening the distance for regular season play is sometimes allowed in certain leagues for younger divisions, but this should be an official league decision, not an individual choice. Proper development at regulation distances prepares players for advancing to the next level.