Pitching is the dominant factor in competitive softball. Pitchers can throw fastballs at 70 mph from a distance of 43 feet, which is the equivalent of a 90-plus mph fastball in baseball. Pitchers can also throw drops, risers, curves and changes-of-pace. Having an array of pitches allows the pitcher to command the game. Learning how to field the position is also vital to becoming a dominant pitcher.
Footwork
The first step to becoming a competitive softball pitcher is knowing how to stand on the pitching rubber. Start with both feet on the rubber, positioned straight ahead so they are facing the catcher behind home plate. Step with your stride leg (left for a right-handed pitcher) toward the plate and push off with your pivot foot. This will allow you to have maximum power on your pitch.
Hand Position
Start with your hand on the softball in your glove, just in front of your midsection. Bring the ball back to shoulder height to get maximum velocity on your pitch. All your weight and strength will now be in a position to come forward. Once your arm is back, you will step forward with your stride leg and drive toward the plate.
Control
This is perhaps the most important aspect of pitching. You may or may not be a hard thrower, but by learning the aspects of control, you can dictate what will happen in the at-bat. Having good control does not mean throwing every pitch over the middle of the plate. It means hitting the corners when you need to throw a strike, throwing the ball just off the plate when you are trying to entice the batter to swing and throwing strikes when you want to get ahead.
Variety of Pitches
Good softball pitchers will throw a variety of pitches. You need to throw risers, drops, curves and a change of pace. You also need to understand when each of those pictures will be effective. That means learning to think like a hitter. A good pitcher understands what kind of pitch the hitter is looking for and will throw something else when possible. Fooling the hitter is a key part of becoming an effective softball pitcher.
Fielding the Position
Since so many fast-pitch softball games are low-scoring games that are determined by one or two late runs, all pitchers have to field their position well. Once the ball leaves the pitcher's hand, she is a fifth infielder. She must know how to react to the batted ball and make the play when she has a chance. This includes knowing how to charge and field a bunt and backing up bases on throws from the outfield. Pitchers who can field their positions well will stay in the game longer than those who struggle to make plays.
Member Comments