Assessing Running Speed and Body Composition in Professional Baseball Players

Two hundred ten professional baseball players were tested for body composition and running speed. Comparisons were made among different levels of performance, between positions and by position and level of performance. Outfielders averaged 8.36 percent body fat and 6.89 seconds in the 60 yard run; infielders, 9.33 percent and 6.97 seconds; catchers, 9.71 percent and 7.09 seconds; pitchers, 10.40 percent (running speed was not assessed). Younger players were leaner than older players, while running speed was similar across all levels of performance. The players' body composition and running speed reflected the movement patterns and defensive requirements of their positions. There were few differences among levels of performance and, in general, the baseball players were comparable to other professional athletes.