This study compares the performance characteristics of three different baseballs: NFHS-certified high school baseballs, 2021 MLB game balls, and the controversial 2019 MLB baseballs. Using a consistent hitting setup with a professional hitter and state-of-the-art tracking technology at Yankee Stadium, we aimed to quantify the impact of ball construction on exit velocity and distance. The experiment involved a controlled setting, utilizing a seasoned hitter known for high exit velocities and a consistent, broken-in bat. Each ball type was tested extensively, allowing for a robust statistical comparison.Our analysis focuses on the measurable difference in exit velocity and distance achieved with each ball type. By comparing the results obtained from the high school baseballs to those from both the 2021 and 2019 MLB baseballs, we aim to shed light on the potential performance enhancement offered by the MLB balls, particularly the 2019 models which were widely speculated to be "juiced." This comparative study provides valuable insights into the influence of baseball construction on offensive performance.
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Test Setup: Balls and Equipment
The experiment involved three types of baseballs: NFHS-certified high school baseballs (Wilson A-1010 HS1), 2021 MLB regular season game balls (Rawlings), and the controversial 2019 MLB baseballs. Each set consisted of two dozen balls. The testing was conducted using a custom-made Birch bat, a common wood in MLB, already broken-in for consistency.
The hitter, known for his mid-to-high 90s exit velocities, used fresh batting gloves and pine tar for each round of testing to maintain optimal grip and prevent contamination between different ball types.
Hitting data, including exit velocity and distance, was captured by a professional-grade hitting tracking machine located at Yankee Stadium. The consistent use of this advanced technology ensured accurate and reliable data collection.
High School Baseball Results
The high school baseballs produced consistently impressive results, with exit velocities regularly reaching the high 90s mph. The maximum exit velocity recorded was 100.2 mph, showcasing the quality of the ball and the hitter's skill.
The maximum distance achieved with the high school baseball was 389 feet, demonstrating good power even without the enhanced properties of an MLB baseball. These results served as a baseline for comparison with the MLB balls.
The consistency in exit velocity across multiple swings with the high school ball indicates a reliable and predictable performance from this commonly used ball type. This data is essential in assessing the difference in performance between this and MLB game balls.
2021 MLB Baseball Results
The 2021 MLB baseballs yielded significantly higher exit velocities compared to the high school balls, consistently exceeding 100 mph. The average exit velocity was noticeably higher, indicating a greater responsiveness to the bat.
The increased exit velocity is likely due to factors such as the ball's construction and materials, resulting in a more powerful impact and greater ball speed. The data strongly supports the perception that MLB baseballs offer a performance advantage compared to their high school counterparts.
Several hits exceeded 103 mph, demonstrating the considerable performance difference between the two ball types. This difference in exit velocity is a key factor to consider when comparing the two types of baseballs.
2019 MLB Baseball Results & Conclusion
The 2019 MLB baseballs, known for their alleged 'juiced' properties, exhibited the highest exit velocities of all three ball types, frequently exceeding 105 mph. This clearly demonstrated a significant difference compared to both the 2021 MLB and high school baseballs.
The substantial increase in exit velocity with the 2019 balls confirms the widespread belief that these balls were significantly more reactive than those used in subsequent seasons. This suggests a clear correlation between ball construction and offensive performance in Major League Baseball.
Overall, the experiment demonstrated a substantial difference in performance between high school and MLB baseballs, particularly the 2019 MLB balls. While MLB players' skill is undoubtedly a significant factor, the ball's properties contribute significantly to the increased offensive numbers. This comparison highlighted the impact of ball construction on exit velocity and the potential advantages offered by MLB baseballs.