Slow pitch emerged as a popular division within USA Softball in the early 1950's. Added to USA Softball's Championship program in 1953, at the National level, USA Softball annually conducts National Championships in the adult slow pitch division while many state and metro associations offer tournament and league play at the grassroots levels.
Each state/metro association may offer additional opportunities for league or tournament play.
- A starting lineup consists of 10 players.
- On defense, teams can place the additional fielder either on infield (known as the Middle Infielder) or in the outfield.
- Teams may bat an 11th batter known as the Extra Player or EP. This player may only be used for offense.
- The pitcher must deliver the ball towards home plate on the first forward swing of the pitching arm past the hip with an underhand motion.
- The ball is delivered with perceptible arch and must reach a height of at least 6' from the ground while not exceeding 10' from the ground.
- Bases are set at 70' apart.
- The pitching distance is 50'.
- The minimum fence distance is 265' for women, 275' for coed and 300' for men and senior divisions.
To find out more information on the Adult Slow Pitch program, please click here >>
At the national level, USA Softball conducts a Men's Major National Championship
Each state/metro association may offer additional opportunities for league or tournament play.
THINGS TO NOTE FOR 16-INCH SLOW PITCH:
- Participants play with a 16" softball and do not use gloves or mitts.
- The pitching rules are similar to Slow Pitch.
- The pitching distance is 38'.