Baseball has been a popular sport in America for over a century, and college baseballs are no exception. As with any sport, there are specific rules and regulations set forth by the governing body, in this case the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). As such, there are certain aspects of college baseballs that are different from those used in the professional leagues. In this article, we will explore the differences between college baseballs and professional baseballs, as well as the importance of using the right type of ball for the level of play.
What Makes College Baseballs Different?
While professional baseballs are all the same size, college baseballs are slightly larger, measuring in at 8.75 inches in circumference. The larger size is meant to make the game more challenging and exciting for players, and the changes also help colleges to keep the costs of baseballs down. Additionally, college baseballs are constructed differently. The cores and covers of college baseballs are softer than those used in the professional leagues, making them easier to control and causing them to fly farther when hit.
What Are the Advantages of College Baseballs?
The advantages of using college baseballs are numerous. The larger size and softer construction of college baseballs make them easier to control, which is great for younger players who are just learning the game. The softer cover also helps to reduce the amount of wear and tear on the field, as the ball will not travel as far and will not cause as much damage. Additionally, the lower cost of college baseballs allows colleges to save money, as they do not have to purchase professional baseballs every season.
What Are the Disadvantages of College Baseballs?
While there are several advantages to using college baseballs, there are also some drawbacks. The softer construction of college baseballs means that they do not fly as far when hit, which can lead to fewer home runs and a slower pace of play. Additionally, the larger size of college baseballs can make it more difficult for pitchers to control the ball, as the increased circumference can interfere with the spin of the ball.
What Are the Different Types of College Baseballs?
There are several different types of college baseballs that can be used, depending on the level of play. For Division I baseball, the NCAA requires that teams use their official Rawlings Division I baseball. This ball is designed specifically for NCAA play and is constructed with Rawlings’ patented composite cork and rubber core, which makes it more durable and easier to control.
For Division II and III baseball, the NCAA allows teams to use any baseball that meets their standards. This means that teams can choose from a variety of different brands and models. The most common type of ball used in these divisions is the Rawlings Division II or III baseball, which is slightly cheaper than the Division I baseball but is still constructed with Rawlings’ patented composite cork and rubber core.
What Are the Different Materials Used for College Baseballs?
The materials used for college baseballs vary depending on the type of ball being used. The most common materials used for college baseballs are leather and synthetic leather. Leather is the traditional material used for baseballs and is preferred for its durability and long-lasting performance. Synthetic leather is an increasingly popular material that is lighter and more flexible than leather, making it ideal for younger players or those who want a softer ball.
How Are College Baseballs Made?
College baseballs are made using a variety of processes. The first step is to make the core, which is usually constructed out of a cork and rubber blend. This core is then covered with a layer of leather or synthetic leather and stitched together with 108 red stitches. The last step is to coat the ball with a special wax to give it a glossy finish.
What Is the Proper Care for College Baseballs?
Proper care of college baseballs is essential to ensure that they last and perform their best. The most important thing is to keep the ball clean and dry. To clean the ball, simply wipe it down with a clean, dry cloth and store it in a cool, dark place. It is also important to keep the ball out of direct sunlight and away from extreme temperatures, as these can cause the ball to deteriorate over time.
Conclusion
College baseballs are slightly larger and softer than professional baseballs, making them ideal for younger players or those who want a softer ball. The larger size and softer construction of college baseballs make them easier to control, but they can also make it more difficult for pitchers to control the ball. Additionally, college baseballs are typically made with leather or synthetic leather and should be cleaned and stored properly to ensure they last. With the right type of ball and proper care, college baseballs can provide a great experience for players of all levels.
Are college baseballs different? The answer is yes! College baseballs are slightly larger and softer than professional baseballs, and they are constructed differently as well. Additionally, there are several different types of college baseballs that can be used, depending on the level of play. Proper care and maintenance are also important for college baseballs in order to ensure they last and perform their best.