Throw Parameters
Matter.js 2D
Launch Velocity
93.4 mph
Release Angle
11.5°
Throw Distance
245 ft
Backspin Rate
2100 rpm
Baserunner Setup
Runner Speed (3B to Home)
28.5 ft/s
Kinetic Telemetry Breakdown
| Throw Flight Distance (Air) | 210.0 ft |
|---|---|
| Air Flight Time | 1.78 s |
| Turf Bounce Velocity Loss | -22.4 % |
| Skid / Post-Hop Time | 0.40 s |
| Baserunner Travel Time (90 ft) | 3.16 s |
| Final Outcome | OUT AT PLATE |
Physics Insights: Why the "Dart" Works
When Zach McKinstry throws a low-angle Dart (11.5°), gravity produces a small bounce before home plate. Although turf friction reduces ball speed by ~20%, the horizontal velocity vector ($v_x = v \cdot \cos\theta$) remains significantly higher throughout flight compared to a high-arc throw.
A Rainbow Arc (>25°) spends excessive time in vertical deceleration ($g \cdot t$), extending air time past 2.50s and allowing baserunners (averaging 28.5 ft/s sprint speed) to score safely.