What Is the Difference between Softball and Baseball?

At first glance, you may think you’re watching a baseball game when it’s softball. The opposite can happen too. The similarities between these two sports might sometimes blur the lines. Yet, for the experienced observer, they’re not the same at all.

So, what’s the difference between softball and baseball? And do they truly have that many distinctions? While both sports involve bats, balls, and bases, baseball-softball differences are, in fact, significant.

For those scratching their heads over this, this article is your guide. I’m here today to shed light on baseball and softball differences. From the size of the playing field to the way they throw the ball, it’s all here. Let’s get to it.

Why Do Some People Confuse Baseball With Softball?

Before listing the differences, you first need to understand what baseball and softball have in common. Even if seasoned fans think it’s ridiculous to have this kind of mix-up, the two games certainly share numerous similarities, including:

• Playing Field: Both sports are played on a diamond-shaped field with four bases positioned at each corner. Moreover, each of these fields has a pitcher’s mound and an infield.
• Pitching: The concept of throwing the ball to the batter in both sports is the same. In the end, pitchers try to make it hard for batters to hit the ball well (or at all).
• Batting: In both sports, players use a bat to hit a ball thrown by the other team. The goal is to hit the ball and get on base.
• Fielding: The two games also involve players trying to stop the other team from scoring runs by fielding batted balls.
• Scoring: Both sports use a scoring system based on runs. Typically, a run scores when a baserunner gets to reach all four bases and back to the home plate before the defensive team can record three outs.

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What Is the Difference Between Baseball and Softball?

Now that you know what baseball and softball have in common, it’s time to focus on their differences. These two games might seem alike from a distance, but looking closely, you can spot many dissimilarities, such as:

1. Playing Field

Although both spots share the same playing field layout, these fields aren’t identical. Comparing the two, you’ll notice that a baseball field is significantly larger than a softball field. This translates into a shorter base path for softball fields.

In general, the distance between bases on a softball field is about 60 feet. On the other hand, the same distance on a baseball field is 90 feet. Boy, do they run!

That said, it’s not only about the distance between bases. The pitching distance is also shorter in softball than in baseball. Talking numbers, softball pitchers release the ball from a distance of around 43 feet, while in baseball, it’s over 60 feet.

2. Pitching Techniques

This is one of the most distinguishable differences between baseball and softball. With a quick inspection, you almost instantly notice how a softball player has a completely different pitching motion than in baseball.

In baseball, pitchers throw the ball overhand or sidearm, delivering it in a downward direction. In contrast, softball pitchers use an underhand motion, releasing the ball upwards toward the batter.

This particular difference is mainly a result of the field size. Back when softball was created, they wanted a game similar to baseball but better suited for indoor play. As the distance from pitcher to hitter is smaller, the pitcher has to throw the ball underhand to allow time for reaction.

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3. Ball Characteristics

There are differences between the ball in baseball and softball regarding weight, size, and even color. Below is a table listing some of these differences briefly:

4. Bat Design

Primarily, the bat in baseball differs from that used in softball. You can notice that the baseball bat is generally heavier than its counterpart. From high school leagues and higher, baseball bats must have a drop weight of at least -2.

When it comes to barrel size, baseball bats are thicker. Such composition allows the player to hit the smaller ball solidly. On the other hand, the thinner body of a softball bat allows for better control of the larger ball.

Not only that, but the handle size is contrasting too. In a baseball bat, the handle is a bit long and thick for an enhanced grip. As for the softball bat, the handle is slightly thinner and shorter to allow for a quicker swing.

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5. Game Rules

Game strategy is where the differences between the two games become even more apparent. Here are a few of them:

• Game Duration: As a standard, a baseball game has nine innings. This can last for over two hours, sometimes even over three hours. When it comes to softball, however, the team only plays seven innings, which lasts for about one to two hours.
• Number of Players on the Field: In a game of baseball, there should be nine players on the field at all times. Fastpitch softball follows the same rule. Yet, in slowpitch softball, the number of players on the field is ten.
• Base-Running: In baseball, runners can take a lead-off and try to steal base before the pitcher throws the ball. Adversely, in softball, runners must remain in contact with the base until the ball leaves the pitcher’s hand.

Final Thoughts

After learning the differences between softball and baseball, it’s clear why many might confuse them. The overall setting is almost the same, except for the size of the playing field. Yet, upon close inspection, the two sports are quite different.

From the equipment to how they throw the ball, it seems like each sport has its way of doing things. In some instances, the rules are contrasting as well.

That said, despite the difference, both softball and baseball are fun to watch (and play). So, whatever your preferences are, you’ll find something to enjoy in both sports.