Softball is fast and the pitcher is much closer to the plate, but I have no idea how it would compare to hard ball. There are a couple of females in the minor league system, which is at least some sort of a starting process.The first female player. If a female can hit a softball they can hit a fastball. Ever watch a game? Those softballs go fast and curve and pitcher stands closer.
I know there are female coaches in the minor league system.
I am leaning towards the first female in the MLB will be a coach.