How Fast Can a Person Throw a Baseball or Softball?

The Guinness Book of World Records states that the fastest softball throw was by pitcher Monica Abbott at 77 mph. Unofficially, a famous softball pitcher, Eddie Feigner, is reputed to have thrown a softball at 104 mph. The fastest known baseball pitch is by Yankees reliever Aroldis Chapman, clocked at 105.1 mph. Nolan Ryan is claimed to have thrown a ball at 108.1 mph in 1974, though the accuracy of this pitch is debated due to the measurement technology available at that time.

Untrained Throwing Speeds

For the average untrained individual, such as myself, throwing speeds range from around 50 mph. With dedicated training and work, this range can increase to about 70 mph. Achieving speeds above 70 mph typically requires years of intensive training and a specific focus on improving throwing techniques.

The Fastest Recorded Pitches

The fastest pitch ever recorded was thrown by Aroldis Chapman of the Cincinnati Reds on September 24, 2010, at 105.1 mph. However, other sources assert that Nolan Ryan threw a fastball of 108 mph on August 20, 1974. Since the measurement technology was not as advanced in 1974, there are disputes regarding the accuracy of this claim.

Average Throwing Velocities

Significant practice is essential for good throwing velocity. For the untrained average person, throwing a baseball over 50 mph is challenging. Trained players see an average pitching velocity ranging from 40-50 mph for young players around 9 or 10 years old, 55-75 mph for players between 10 and 17 years old, and 80 mph for players 18 years old and above.

Considering professional athletes, the average fastball in Major League Baseball (MLB) in 2018 was clocked at 92.3 mph. This figure is notably higher than the 80 mph average noted earlier, reflecting the significant difference between amateur and professional players. A 35-year-old MLB player, while still able to throw about 4-5 mph slower than their earlier years, is much more likely to have arm injuries or issues from a lack of proper recovery and rehabilitation.

Factors Influencing Throwing Speed

Throwing speed varies widely among individuals, even within the athletic population. For instance, the average 30-year-old pitcher in a men's adult league typically throws around 80 mph. However, this average declines sharply with age, as most casual players do not engage in the same level of professional arm care and specific pitching workouts.

Some exceptionally strong and fit individuals might not perform well in baseball due to a lack of knowledge or experience. For example, consider the act of throwing a football. A person who has never played football can still throw one decently well, regardless of gender or physical fitness. The same applies to baseball, where throwing speed depends on the individual's background and training.

The key takeaway is that throwing speed is influenced by various factors, including practice, training, and specific athletic background. While the average person may not reach 80 mph, non-athletic individuals could potentially throw at 70 mph, and some may not be able to even reach home plate from the pitcher's mound.