How Fast Did They Throw in the Babe Ruth Era?
Pitching speeds in the Ruth era were slower than today. While there is no definitive data, experts estimate that the average fastball in the 1920s was in the low-to-mid 80s (miles per hour), while today's average fastball is in the low-to-mid 90s. This difference is likely due to a number of factors, including better training, nutrition, and equipment.
Factors Contributing to Slower Pitching Speeds:
- Lack of Pitching Mechanics: Pitchers in the Ruth era did not have the same access to pitching coaches and biomechanics experts as pitchers today. This led to less efficient and less powerful pitching motions.
- Heavier Balls: The baseballs used in the Ruth era were slightly heavier than the balls used today. This made it more difficult for pitchers to generate the same velocity.
- Different Mounds: The pitching mound in the Ruth era was lower than it is today. This gave hitters a better angle to see the ball and made it more difficult for pitchers to strike them out.
Despite the slower pitching speeds, hitters in the Ruth era were still able to produce impressive power numbers. This was due to a number of factors, including the use of wooden bats and the lack of specialized defensive shifts.
Related Questions
- Why were pitching speeds slower in the Ruth era? Pitchers lacked access to modern training, nutrition, and equipment.
- How fast was the average fastball in the Ruth era? Estimates suggest it was in the low-to-mid 80s.
- What factors contributed to slower pitching speeds? Lack of pitching mechanics, heavier balls, and different mounds.
- Were hitters still able to hit for power in the Ruth era? Yes, due to wooden bats and lack of defensive shifts.
- How did pitching speeds evolve over time? Pitching speeds have gradually increased over the years due to better training, nutrition, and equipment.
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