Softball Pitch Speed Calculator
The Softball Pitch Speed Calculator estimates pitch speed in miles per hour based on the distance thrown and time in the air. This tool helps coaches and pitchers measure performance and track development over time with accuracy. Whether you are benchmarking against age-group standards, analyzing pitch differentials like a changeup, or recording reaction times, this calculator simplifies the process for better training results.
How Pitch Speed Is Calculated
Pitch speed measures how fast a softball travels from the pitcher's release point to the catcher's mitt. To find this value, we calculate the velocity in feet per second and convert it to miles per hour for easy comparison.
Speed (mph) = Distance (feet) / Time (seconds) × 0.681818
Where:
- Distance = Length from release point to home plate in feet
- Time = Duration the ball is in the air in seconds
- 0.681818 = Conversion factor from feet per second to miles per hour
First, divide the total distance in feet by the time in seconds it takes the ball to travel. This gives you the speed in feet per second. Next, multiply that number by 0.681818 to convert it to miles per hour. This specific conversion factor is essential because it translates the raw speed into the standard unit used by coaches and scouts at every level of play.
What Your Pitch Speed Means
Your result indicates how competitive a pitcher is compared to others in their age group and reveals the reaction time available to the batter.
Youth Development (10U-14U)
A range of 35-50 mph is considered average for younger players. Coaches should prioritize mastering throwing mechanics and control over sheer velocity at this stage to build a safe, solid foundation for future growth.
High School and College (14U+)
Competitive players often throw between 50-65 mph. Consistently hitting over 60 mph puts a pitcher in a strong position for recruitment and success at higher levels of competitive play.
Pitch Differentiation
Speed is not the only factor for success. An effective changeup should be 8-12 mph slower than your fastball to disrupt the batter's timing and keep them off balance during the at-bat.
Important: Manual timing with a stopwatch can vary slightly from radar guns. To get the most informational data, time several pitches and calculate the average speed rather than relying on a single throw.
Disclaimer: These calculations are estimates for informational purposes only and do not replace professional radar gun readings. Actual results may vary based on measurement technique and conditions.
Use this tool weekly to track progress and ensure your training is effectively increasing your velocity.
Calculation logic verified using publicly available standards.
View our Accuracy & Reliability Framework →