Softball vs baseball: the key differences

What softball and baseball share

If your family already knows baseball, you are most of the way there. Both games use innings, three outs per half inning, balls and strikes, four bases and a diamond-shaped infield. A run scores when a player touches first, second, third and home in order. Gloves, bats and base running will all look familiar. The differences are real, though, and they change how the game feels. For a full walk-through of softball itself, see softball rules for beginners.

The pitch is thrown underhand

The biggest visible difference is the delivery. In fastpitch softball, the pitcher throws underhand, usually with a windmill motion, and releases the ball around hip level (the exact rule varies by rule set). In baseball the pitcher usually throws overhand from a raised mound. In slowpitch softball, the pitch is an underhand lob in a high arc. Softball pitchers throw from a flat circle rather than a mound. Pitching distance and the rules for the motion differ between the two sports and by age group, so check your league's rulebook for specifics.

The ball and the field

• The ball: a softball is larger than a baseball, and it is not soft. It is a hard ball, which is why helmets and catcher's gear matter. Many softballs are bright yellow so they are easier to see, though color varies.
• The field: softball fields are generally smaller than baseball fields, with shorter distances between bases and a shorter pitching distance. Exact dimensions vary by age group and league, so we will not quote numbers here.
• The bat: bats are designed differently for each sport and are usually not interchangeable. Leagues often require specific approved bats, so ask before you buy. The youth softball equipment checklist covers this in more detail.
• The glove: gloves look similar, but softball gloves are often made to suit the larger ball.

Running the bases

In fastpitch softball, runners may steal, but they cannot leave the base until the pitcher releases the ball. In standard baseball rules, runners are allowed to take a lead off the base while the pitcher is getting ready, although many youth baseball leagues restrict leading off. That difference changes the rhythm of the game. In softball, speed from a standing start matters, and a quick, accurate throw from the catcher is a big part of the defense. Many youth divisions in both sports limit or change stealing, so ask your coach what applies.

Game length

In standard adult rules, a baseball game is nine innings and a fastpitch softball game is seven. Youth games in both sports vary widely, and many leagues use time limits or run limits. Check your league rather than assuming.

Quick comparison

Common mix-ups

Softball is just baseball for girls.

It is its own sport with its own rules, equipment and strategy. It is also played by boys and men, especially in slowpitch leagues.

A softball is soft.

It is a firm, hard ball. Protective gear is important.

Slowpitch and fastpitch are the same game.

They share the basics, but pitching, bunting, stealing and the number of fielders often differ. Our positions guide touches on one of those differences.

Skills do not carry over.

Catching, throwing, fielding and baserunning habits transfer well in both directions, although hitting a larger, differently pitched ball takes some adjustment.

If your child plays both

Many children enjoy both sports. Expect an adjustment period when switching: a different bat, a different pitch speed and angle, and different base-running rules. Be patient, and tell the coach about the other sport so they can help. If your child is throwing a lot in both sports at once, ask a coach or doctor about rest, since young arms need breaks.

Want the lingo? Look up unfamiliar words in softball terms for new parents, or browse the softball guides hub.