I have heard, and this article makes the case that reaction time for people is relatively constant, but that the pros are better at anticipating pitches. They read body and shoulder movements leading up to the ball release.
I've heard the exact same thing about olympic fencers.
I also experience this one firsthand every week at my club. Beginner fencers lose so many points because they think all they need to do is hit faster, react quicker. When in actuality, they're just being predictable and setup to lose by clever tactics.
I also experience this one firsthand every week at my club. Beginner fencers lose so many points because they think all they need to do is hit faster, react quicker. When in actuality, they're just being predictable and setup to lose by clever tactics.