In modified pitching softball leagues, pitchers are not allowed to use a windmill windup or do anything that is considered deceptive when delivering the ball to home plate. Under the modified rules, there is more hitting and there are more runs scored. One of the keys to successful pitching is moving the ball around the strike zone and keeping the hitters guessing.
Starting Position
In modified softball pitching, you must start with both feet on the pitching rubber. This is different than conventional fast-pitch softball, where only one foot is required to be on the rubber. Bend your knees slightly and keep your weight on the balls of your feet. Take your backswing with your arm, but do not exceed head height. Once you get your arm to that point, take a three-foot step with your lead leg---left for a right-handed pitcher---and then bring your arm forward. Once you have delivered the pitch, you are now an infielder and you must be ready to defend yourself and field your position since you are the closest fielder to the batter.
Move the Ball
In fast-pitch softball, a pitcher can rely on velocity to overpower the batter. In modified delivery, most pitchers cannot manufacture the same kind of velocity. As a result, they have to work the ball around the plate more and can't overpower batters as readily. In order to be effective, get ahead of the batter with a first-pitch strike and then try to make the batter swing at pitches out of the strike zone. Study the batter's stance before you deliver the ball. If she is close to the plate, throw her pitches over the inside corner because it will be tough for her to get her hands through the ball. If she is farther away from the plate, try to hit the outside corner.
Offspeed Pitches
Once you can throw a good fastball that you have confidence in, it's time to work on the rest of your pitching skills and learn pitches like the riser, drop, curve and change-of-pace pitches. None of these pitches will be thrown as hard as the fastball and that will throw off the batter's timing. One of the best ways to throw an offspeed pitch is to place the ball deep in the palm of your hand. This will take 5 to 8 miles per hour off the speed of the pitch and will make it difficult for the batter, who will find it hard to keep her balance.
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