Outfielder throwing distance

Question
How far should a varsity outfielder be throwing as far as distance?

Answer
Hi Richard,

I've only coached younger players and am not sure about varsity requirements (if they even exist) for distance throws.

I would say that highschool varsity outfielders should always be throwing to the cutoff and, if need be, to the base nearest the outfielder.  

College and university varsity outfielders should be able to make the bases.  If the cutoff is in a good position, they should be used but IF that throw to home is REALLY needed, an outfielder should be able to make it (or at least a one bounce).

As for actual distances, that's not so easy as most fields are not exactly alike.  It would be nice if all fields were 300 or 400 feet along the foul lines.  To be honest, I've never really measured how far my fielders threw and I only required them to make the cutoff.  I also trained my team defensively to help in setting up the cutoff.

I do know that RF has the strongest arms, CF the fastest legs and LF uses the cutoff as much as possible.  An accurate throw of 200 feet is good in my books.

Wish I could be more helpful,

JohnMc

BTW:
Longest throw by a major league player was Glen Gorbous, a Canadian player (Reds, Phillies) who threw a baseball 445 feet, 10 inches in 1957.  Imagine the speed needed for that kind of throw.  Had to be over 120mph from release.