Becoming a dominant pitcher in softball is a long road. Pitchers have to learn to throw the ball with power, then learn accuracy and follow that by developing a number of pitches that can keep the batter off balance and keep her from hitting the ball hard. The drop pitch is one of the staples that all pitchers learn. This pitch is especially effective when trying to change speeds and when the pitcher is attempting to stop a power hitter from delivering the long ball.
Step 1
Grip the ball the same way you do with your four seam fastball. Your fingers should be aligned with the horseshoe (with the seams and not across ) as you get ready to throw the drop ball pitch.
Step 2
Take a shorter stride than normal when you are throwing your fastball. That stride is normally 18 to 24 inches. When you are throwing your drop pitch, make that stride somewhere between 10 and 15 inches. Make sure you land on your glove-side leg.
Step 3
Stay as tall and erect as possible when you release your drop ball. You will be leaning forward but you will not be bending forward at the waist.
Step 4
Keep your elbow close to your body. Do not extend your elbow more than three or four inches from your hip. The inside portion of your wrist should be facing the catcher. Your palm should be facing first base if you are a right-handed pitcher. Your shoulder should be loose and relaxed.
Step 5
Pull backwards as you release the ball. This will create backspin on the ball and force it in a downward direction. It will also take quite a bit of speed off the pitch and force the batter onto her front foot before the ball arrives at the plate. This will keep her from hitting the pitch at full force.
Tips and Warnings
- Warm up properly before pitching. Play 15 minutes of long toss in the outfield at a distance of 60 to 80 feet before starting to pitch.
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