Softball is a sport derived from baseball, typically played on a smaller field with a larger, denser ball. It was first played in Chicago in 1887, initiated by George Hancock, who adapted a larger ball for indoor use. The sport grew rapidly, with the first softball league outside the United States starting in Toronto, Canada, in 1897. Officially termed "softball" in 1926, it split into two main formats: slow pitch, popular in recreational leagues, and fast pitch, known for competitive play.
A standard softball game is played between two teams of nine or ten players, aiming to score more runs by hitting the ball and running bases. The game usually lasts seven innings. The field comprises a diamond-shaped infield with four bases and an outfield area, and the distance between bases is typically 60 feet. The pitching style in softball differs significantly from baseball, as all pitches are thrown underhand. Fastpitch allows a windmill-style motion where pitches can reach high speeds, often challenging for batters.
Softball includes varied equipment: a ball, a bat, gloves, and protective gear. The ball's size ranges from 11 to 12 inches in circumference in competitive play and up to 16 inches for certain recreational formats like Chicago’s “mush ball.” Players wear gloves that vary by position, with outfield gloves generally being larger. Catchers and batters are required to wear helmets, and some players opt for shin guards and sliding shorts for added protection.
The sport is governed internationally by the World Baseball Softball Confederation, with major competitions held worldwide, including at the Olympics from 1996 to 2008 and again in 2020, with a planned return for 2028. Softball is widely played in countries like the United States, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, each with strong national teams. In the United States, competitive leagues range from youth to professional levels, with fastpitch being particularly popular among women.
Slow-pitch Softball
In slow-pitch, the ball is pitched with a high arc, typically 6 to 12 feet, making it easier to hit. This style is common in recreational leagues. Slow-pitch games often involve ten players, with an extra outfielder. Because the pitch is slower and lofted, fielding relies heavily on positioning and quick reactions. Players cannot steal bases, and bunting is generally not allowed, which simplifies gameplay. Slow-pitch focuses more on hitting and is often played in mixed-gender leagues due to its accessible nature.
Fastpitch Softball
Fastpitch is a faster-paced, competitive version of the game. In fastpitch, the pitcher uses an underhand windmill motion, which allows higher pitching speeds, sometimes over 60 mph. Fastpitch teams consist of nine players, and base-stealing is allowed, which adds strategic complexity. Fastpitch softball is commonly played at competitive levels, including school, university, and professional leagues. Bunting and slapping (a controlled soft hit) are also used as tactics in fastpitch to advance base runners.
Sixteen-Inch Softball
A less common variant, sixteen-inch softball, is mostly played in cities like Chicago. This version uses a 16-inch ball, and players do not wear gloves. The game is slower, and the larger ball requires a unique fielding approach. It is popular for informal games and social leagues, often in urban areas.
Indoor Softball
Softball can also be played indoors, known as Arena or Indoor Softball. The game follows similar rules to outdoor play, though with adjusted field dimensions. The walls in indoor settings are considered part of the field, so a ball hitting the walls remains in play. Indoor softball is usually played in colder months or in areas without suitable outdoor facilities.
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