Fast-pitch softball is a very competitive game. When played at a high level, hits and runs are very hard to come by. Scores of 1 to 0, 2 to 1 and 3 to 2 are quite common. Many games are won with late runs and that means execution by the pitcher and the defense is vital. Pitchers have an array of pitches and must learn the strengths and weaknesses of opposing hitters.
Windmill Motion
Nearly all fast-pitch hurlers use the windmill motion. This allows the pitcher to gather momentum before she lets go of the ball. It is an intimidating motion and the batter has to look for the fastball out of this motion because it can reach speeds of 70 miles per hour, which is the equivalent of a 90-plus MPH fastball in baseball. While the hitter gears up for a fast pitch, a pitcher can fool the batter with a curve or a change-up.
Various Pitches
Pitchers who dominate competitive softball can throw the fastball, riser, drop, curve and change of pace. While the fastball sets the pace for nearly every pitcher, the ability to fool the batter without changing the pitching motion is what makes competitive softball such a difficult game for hitters. When the batter is looking for a fastball and the change of pace comes or the drop ball is thrown, it may leave the batter with a hopeless feeling.
The fastball is thrown by placing the fingers across the seams and driving hard with the arm and shoulder through the release zone. The change of pace is thrown with the ball deep in the palm of the hand. This will slow the ball down as it comes out of your hand. The curve is thrown with a sharp twist of the wrist as the ball is released. A right-handed pitcher will twist her wrist to the right and a left-handed pitcher will twist to the left to throw a curve.
Arm Whip Drill
To pitch successfully in softball, you need to master the windmill pitch. One way to get better at this pitch is with the arm whip drill. To perform this drill, extend your gloved hand toward the plate and your pitching arm backward. Your two extended arms should resemble the letter "T" when you are in the correct position. From this position, bring your pitching arm through forcefully while rotating your shoulder and hips to the open position. Your wrist should be cocked--angled backwards--and your arm should be straight. Release the ball with a snap of the wrist, keeping your eyes focused on the catcher's glove.
Arm Injuries
It's important for pitchers to warm up thoroughly and throw regularly to prevent arm injuries. Softball pitchers suffer fewer injuries than baseball pitchers because the underhand motion of softball is easier on the arm than the overhand motion. However, softball pitchers suffer shoulder, elbow and wrist injuries when throwing regularly. To prevent injuries, pitchers need to throw the ball regularly to build strength in the arm. Throwing the ball 60 to 90 feet for 15 to 20 minutes five times per week will build arm strength. So will arm curls with light weights--3 to 7 pounds--done three or four times per week.
Expert Insight
When a team scores a run or two, it is tough for the opposing team to relax when they go back into the field. They need their pitcher to lead them by shutting down the opponents without any runs. "If you ask any softball player the same thing they will tell you that having a pitcher that shuts down the opponent the next inning after scoring the go-ahead run is the best thing," says former U.S. Olympian and professional softball player Jenny Finch. "Confidence surges through the team and that's just what you need to win."
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