The average MLB player ran to first base in 4.33

Mean times for RHB and LHB are presented in Table 3. For analysis purposes, the times used were those recorded on balls hit to infielders in which the batter had to run at max speed. At least 5 times were recorded for each player. The criterion score for each subject was the average of his three fastest times. Time to first base was converted to velocity (fps) by dividing distance (ft) by time (s). Ninety percent of the runs were made on natural grass, 10% on artificial turf. No attempt was made to differentiate between velocity and surface type.

The average MLB player ran to first base in 4.33 ±0.17 s. There was no significant difference in time base between RHB and LHB. Mean time for RHB was 4.35 ± 0.15 s. Mean time for LHB was 4.31±0.18 s. While these times were not significantly different, they might be meaningful. Converting time to velocity indicates that the average LHB reached first base approximately 10 inches ahead of the average RHB. Given the fact that the difference between being safe and out is often a step or less, reaching first base with as little as 10 inches lead over other runners might be very meaningful in game situations.