Expert: Jack Elliott - 3/27/2009

Question
What is the pitching distance for a 8 year old, my son is starting his first year were they pitch and he wants to pitch, but need to know distance for i can work with him.

Answer
Hi Wendell,

Great to hear your son is interested in pitching.  I think it is the best position in all of baseball.  Anyway, the distance for 8 year old players will most likely be 46 feet.  However, you can double check with his coach or call the league office to double check.  Some leagues have various distances; however, here is a good rule of thumb to follow:

Little League-        46 feet
Pony League-          54 feet
Babe Ruth League-     60 feet 6 inches
High school & beyond- 60 feet 6 inches  

Best,
Jack Elliott
http://www.baseballtrainingtechniques.com