Pitching rule should bring offense back in fastpitch

Urbana's Leanna Pittsenbarger fires a pitch home during a Divsion II district championship game against Amelia in 2010. Pittesenbarger tossed a no-hitter as the Hillclimbers beat the Barons 2-0. Contributed photo by David A. Moodie

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By Michael Cooper, Staff Writer Updated 9:34 AM Wednesday, March 30, 2011

SPRINGFIELD — Three feet could make a mile of difference on the softball diamond this spring.

This season, the Ohio High School Athletic Association is adopting a new pitching rule which moves the mound from 40 to 43 feet, the same distance used in the college game.

The National Federation of State High School Associations approved the rule in the summer of 2009, and Ohio changed its rule after last season.

It could mean big changes in the game this season.

“Instead of two runs, you might see five runs, maybe six,” said Springfield coach Pete Cook. “It puts the offense into the game, so you better be able to throw and catch and make the routine plays.”

This summer, many area players competed at the new distance to get ready for the upcoming season.

“My pitchers have adjusted well,” Cook said. “They’ve pitched at 43 feet all summer long, so they’re ready.”

Urbana coach Kevin Gary believes the elite pitchers will still shine.

“The dominating pitchers will continue to dominate and the average pitchers I think it will hurt them a little bit,” said Gary.

But Cook says don’t be surprised if strikeout numbers go down slightly.

“If you get 10 (per game), you’re doing great,” Cook said. “That’s what I think will happen because more balls will be put into play.”

Although the distance was changed to bring more offense into the game, don’t expect coaches to stop manufacturing runs. The bunt game will still be in effect with many teams, especially given the extra three feet the pitcher will have to cover bunts.

“Small ball still works,” Cook said.

Many coaches believe the new distance will make for an exciting season.

“People will really enjoy the game,” Cook said.

Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0365, mcooper@coxohio.com or on Twitter at SNS_Wizard.