Exit velocity is a measure of the speed of a ball at the moment it is hit by a bat. It is an important part of the game of baseball and can be used to give an idea of how well a hitter is performing. It is also a useful tool to measure the progress of young players as they develop their baseball skills. So, what is a good exit velocity for a 12-year-old?
Understanding Exit Velocity
Exit velocity is the speed of a ball when it is hit by a bat. It is measured in miles per hour (mph). The average exit velocity for Major League players is between 85 and 95 mph, and the best hitters can hit the ball at speeds greater than 100 mph. It is important to note that the exit velocity of a ball is not the same as its overall speed. The ball’s exit velocity is the speed it has when it leaves the bat, while its overall speed is the maximum speed it can reach as it travels through the air.
Factors Affecting Exit Velocity
The exit velocity of a ball is affected by a variety of factors. These include the type of bat being used, the player’s swing mechanics, the type of ball being used, and the player’s strength and physical condition. Generally speaking, heavier bats produce higher exit velocities, as do better swings and stronger players.
Exit Velocity for 12-Year-Olds
The exit velocity of a 12-year-old can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, a good exit velocity for a 12-year-old is between 45 and 55 mph. However, some 12-year-olds can hit the ball at speeds greater than 60 mph. It is important to note that this is just an average and that individual players may vary significantly.
Tips to Improve Exit Velocity
There are several things that a 12-year-old can do to improve their exit velocity. The most important thing is to focus on developing proper swing mechanics. This includes making sure the player has a good grip on the bat, is in a good stance, and is swinging at the right time. Additionally, it is important to focus on strengthening the player’s core and arm muscles, as this will help increase their power.
Practice is also important. It is important for 12-year-olds to practice hitting the ball off a tee, as this will help them develop their swing mechanics and increase their power. It is also important to practice using heavier bats, as this will help them develop the strength and power needed to hit the ball at higher speeds.
Conclusion
Exit velocity is an important measure of a hitter’s performance. It is also a useful tool to measure the progress of young players as they develop their baseball skills. Generally speaking, a good exit velocity for a 12-year-old is between 45 and 55 mph. However, some 12-year-olds can hit the ball at speeds greater than 60 mph. To improve exit velocity, 12-year-olds should focus on developing proper swing mechanics and strengthening their core and arm muscles. Additionally, they should practice hitting the ball off a tee and using heavier bats.