Softball vs Baseball: Understanding the Difference

Softball and baseball are not the same thing. You've probably found yourself trying to explain that at one point or other. But did you know how to do it?

As a softball player or coach, you've likely been approached about the game. In order to defend your point that baseball isn't the same thing, you've got to have some info to back up your story.

The differences go beyond ball size. So prepare yourself for the next softball vs. baseball conversation by reading up on the differences.

Are you ready to rock your next conversation? Then keep reading!

Similarities between Baseball and Softball

First off, you shouldn't be arguing that baseball and softball are totally different, because they're not. It's important to note that there are some major similarities between the two sports.

The first of similarity is that both sports are played by males and females! Many people think that softball is only played by girls and women, but this isn't the case.

The games themselves are also similar. You have hitters, pitchers, basemen, and outfielders, and runners run around three bases trying to make it back to home plate. That's about where the similarities end, though.

The Balls

Softballs are different than baseballs in both size and makeup. Softballs are larger than and not as dense as baseballs. The coloring is also different.

The Bats

At youth levels, the bats used in softball and baseball are the same. Though a bat may be designated for one sport it can be used for either one. Once a player gets into more advanced play, though, softball and baseball-specific bats are used.

Pitching

In baseball, the pitcher throws the ball from an elevated mound with an overhand or side-armed motion. Softball pitches are thrown from an area that's level with the hitter and the ball is thrown underhand. In fast-pitch softball, the pitcher throws from a spot much closer to the hitter than in baseball.

Game Play

While players run around bases in both games, the distances are different. Baseball players have to run farther between bases. And, the home run fences are shorter, so the field is smaller, overall.

The game is shorter too, with softball only having seven innings as compared to baseball's nine.

If there's a tie at the end, more innings will be played in both games. But in softball, the offensive team gets to start the inning with a runner on second base.

Softball vs. Baseball: Comparable but Different

Softball and baseball are comparable, there's no denying it, but in the end, they are different sports. From the equipment used to the size of the field, a softball player would be out of place in a baseball game.

That softball vs. baseball conversation will probably turn up again. But now, thanks to your research, you'll be prepared because you know the difference.

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