MLB, NCAA, & High School Baseballs: A Hitting Performance Comparison

Updated at: 18/02/2025

This study investigates the impact of baseball construction on hitting performance. We compared three different baseballs – a high school Wilson A1010 HS1, a college Rawlings FSR1 NCAA, and a Rawlings Official MLB ball – to determine how their materials and construction affect exit velocity and distance. A consistent BB Core bat, standard for high school and college levels, was utilized for the majority of the tests, with additional trials employing a Louisville Slugger wood bat to explore material variance. A pitching machine ensured consistent launch conditions for all trials, allowing for a focused comparison of ball-related performance differences.The experiment meticulously measured exit velocity and distance for multiple hits with each ball type. Our analysis focused on identifying peak speeds and distances to quantify the impact of each ball's unique characteristics on hitting performance. This research aims to highlight the significance of ball selection in achieving optimal performance, especially concerning the discrepancies between high school, collegiate, and professional levels of play. The findings underscore the influence of ball construction on hitting metrics and provide valuable insights for players, coaches, and equipment manufacturers alike.

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Baseball Selection and Equipment

This experiment compares the performance of three different baseballs: a standard high school ball, a college NCAA ball, and a Major League Baseball (MLB) ball. The objective was to determine how the construction and materials of each ball affect hitting performance, specifically exit velocity and distance.

The BB Core metal bat used for the majority of the testing.
The BB Core metal bat used for the majority of the testing.

A consistent bat, a BB Core – standard for high school and college – was used for all tests to minimize variables. The testing also included a Louisville Slugger wood bat to show further performance variance.

The Louisville Slugger wood bat used in a comparison section.
The Louisville Slugger wood bat used in a comparison section.

Multiple hits were recorded for each ball using a pitching machine to ensure consistent launch conditions. Exit velocity and distance were measured for each hit, focusing on the top speeds recorded.

High School Baseball Results

The high school Wilson A1010 HS1 baseballs were surprisingly effective. Consistent high exit velocities were recorded.

A hit with the high school baseball, showcasing a strong hit.
A hit with the high school baseball, showcasing a strong hit.

Top speeds of 106-107 mph were achieved, a significant number for high school-level hitting. This suggests that even at this level, the ball's construction plays a notable role in performance.

The data readout displaying a high exit velocity with the high school baseball.
The data readout displaying a high exit velocity with the high school baseball.

College (NCAA) Baseball Results

The Rawlings FSR1 NCAA baseballs showed a marked increase in performance compared to the high school balls.

A strong hit with the NCAA baseball, illustrating its power.
A strong hit with the NCAA baseball, illustrating its power.

Exit velocities consistently exceeded 105 mph, with some reaching the 108 mph range. This demonstrates how the construction differences between high school and college baseballs can impact hitter performance.

High exit velocity reading for the NCAA ball.
High exit velocity reading for the NCAA ball.

The perceived 'hardness' of the NCAA ball was noted as a significant difference by the hitter.

Major League Baseball Results

The Rawlings Official MLB baseballs produced the highest exit velocities, consistently exceeding 107 mph and reaching up to 109 mph on several hits.

A hit with the MLB baseball exhibiting significant distance and power.
A hit with the MLB baseball exhibiting significant distance and power.

The increased distance on hits with the MLB ball was readily apparent. The higher exit velocity translated into a noticeable increase in the distance of each hit, as predicted.

High exit velocity reading from an MLB baseball hit.
High exit velocity reading from an MLB baseball hit.

The noticeable difference in the feel of the MLB ball is highlighted again.

A reaction shot indicating the impact of the MLB ball on a hit.
A reaction shot indicating the impact of the MLB ball on a hit.

Wood Bat Comparison

A comparison using a wood bat showed a similar trend, though with lower overall exit velocities. The difference between ball types remained consistent.

Exit velocity reading from a wood bat hit with the standard practice ball.
Exit velocity reading from a wood bat hit with the standard practice ball.

This reinforces the idea that the ball's construction significantly impacts bat performance, even across different bat materials.

Exit velocity reading with a wood bat hit using the MLB ball.
Exit velocity reading with a wood bat hit using the MLB ball.

Conclusion and Overall Assessment

The experiment clearly demonstrated a noticeable increase in exit velocity and distance with each level of baseball (high school, college, MLB). The MLB ball consistently produced the highest exit velocities and greatest distances.

The differences in construction and materials between baseballs significantly impact hitting performance. The jump from high school to MLB is particularly notable.

While all three baseballs are high-quality, choosing the appropriate ball type for the skill level is crucial for optimal performance and accurate simulation of game conditions.