The differences between fastpitch and slowpitch softball go beyond the speed of the ball. Because of the way the pitching speed affects the game, and based on who and why people choose these two different versions of the sport, the Amateur Softball Association of America created a variety of rules to make both versions of the game more fair and enjoyable.
Pitch Speeds
The ASA does not regulate pitch speeds; only how the ball can be delivered. Fastpitch pitchers must use an underhand motion, with the arm completing no more than one full rotation. Slowpitch pitchers must use a moderate speed and put a 6-foot arc on the ball as it travels from the pitcher's mound to the batter's box. It's up to the umpire to determine if the ball is pitched with a moderate speed. Putting a 6-foot arc on a pitch is often enough to slow the ball down to a moderate speed.
Equipment
Fastpitch games use 11-inch balls, while slowpitch games use 12-inch and 16-inch balls. In ASA-sponsored games, balls must have the ASA stamp on them, and be either white or optic yellow. Players who play with 16-inch balls do not need gloves, especially if the balls are older and softer. This eliminates the rules regarding gloves that cover fastpitch games. Catchers and batters wear more protective gear in fastpitch games, including batting helmets for fastpitch.
Base Stealing
Because a slow pitch takes so long to get from the pitcher to the catcher, it would be nearly impossible to throw base stealers out if they were able to leave their base as soon as the pitcher begins his pitch. Another difference between slowpitch and fastpitch is that slowpitch baserunners may steal bases only after the pitch has reached the front part of home plate. Slowpitch baserunners may not lead off, and must remain in contact with the base until the ball reaches the front part of home plate.
Courtesy Runners
Because many slowpitch players are seniors, the ASA allows courtesy runners for players who reach base, but do not wish to stay on base and run the bases the rest of the inning. These players may request a rostered courtesy runner who does not take their place in the lineup, or at bat, after the inning is finished.
Bunting/Chopping
Batters may not bunt or chop the ball directly downward in slowpitch games. Because of the slow speed of the ball, bunting is easy to do in slowpitch and would change the nature of the game because many players might hit many bunts.
Positions
In slowpitch games, teams may add a 10th player, known as the short center fielder. This player plays between the infield and outfield, generally between the second base player and centerfielder.
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