Softball Field Dimensions

This game can be called younger cousin of the national game of USA, baseball. There is a slight difference between the two. All those who know baseball wouldn't find it difficult to understand, that the game I am referring to is Softball. The only factor where these two differ is that the ball size is different and the pitching is underhand, rather than overhand. Moreover it has a smaller diamond than baseball. The International Softball Federation governs the rules of the game, not to mention the field dimensions as well.

Fast Pitch Field Dimensions

Outfield
The fence distances usually start at 150 feet as far as youngsters are concerned. This is extended over to 225 feet for adults and above. The distances also vary according to whether its men's league or a women's league. In addition to that, these measurements depend on the size of the lot on which the field is set. Softball leagues on their own adopt varying outfield sizes determined by levels of play and some other factors. The space remaining between baselines and between the fence of the outfield and the infield.

Bases
The distance between the bases is 60 feet.

The Pitcher's Mound
Again here the age and type of the field comes into play. The distance from the pitcher's mound to the plate ranges between 35 and 40 feet. This is for the adults. It might be lesser for younger players.

Rim of the Infield
The grass line normally is 60 feet, which is the circumference of the semicircle from the pitcher's mound, the rubber.

Catcher's Area
This is designated with a 9 foot radius, around the home plate till it crosses with the 3 foot mark indicating the baselines, according to official specifications.

Infield Fence
This fence is typically between 25 and 30 feet behind home plate. It is meant for the protection of players and fans. It extends past the 1st and 3rd base ending behind the catcher's box and home plate. The infield comprises the diamond and the space around it where the infielders play.

Coach Box
This is generally placed along the 1st and 3rd baselines, in line with the corresponding bases. The box measures 15 feet by 3 feet.

These were the dimensions of softball field as far as fast pitch is concerned. Now is the time for a look at slow pitch measurements. Slow pitch baselines measure around 60 to 65 feet depending on the level of play or association. The pitching distance in slow pitch in slow pitch is 50 feet for adults. For players under 18 too it is the same. It is a bit less, 46 feet for under 15 girls.

In addition to this, in field size, there is a backstop behind the home plate. It has to be between 25 and 30 feet, varying as per the division or league playing. In slow field, the coach box is behind a 15 feet line drawn outside the diamond and the catcher's box has to be 10 feet from behind, on the outer corners of the batters' boxes. The width of the catcher's box has to be 8 feet 5 inches wide.

All these measurements, as mentioned earlier, are not constant and differ from game to game and age group and a few other factors.

I hope this was useful for softball aficionados! I sign off here!