Top-level pitchers dominate competitive softball. Good pitchers throw fastballs that reach 70 miles per hour, which is about the equivalent of a 93-mile-per-hour fastball in baseball. In addition to throwing that pitch, many pitchers throw risers, drops, curves and changeups. In order to throw these pitches effectively, pitchers must understand and execute proper mechanics.
Footwork
Start your pitching motion with both feet on the pitching rubber. Take a rocker-step backward to begin your motion; that's your left foot if you are a right-handed pitcher and your right foot if you are a left-handed pitcher. Then take a big step forward--at least 24 inches--with that same foot as you drive toward home plate. Finish the pitch by coming forward with your dominant leg. The rules of softball compel the pitcher to step directly toward home plate and not take a step to the side because that would be considered deceptive.
Set-up Position
Start off with the ball in your glove hand. Place your pitching hand on the ball. Bring the ball back to shoulder level to throw a fastball. As your arm gets back to your shoulder blade, begin your approach toward home plate. Drive forward and bring your arm around to deliver the ball windmill-style. This delivery will give you a chance to put the most power on your pitch and deliver a hard fastball. Your arm will gather momentum and you'll be able to sling the ball to the plate with the most velocity with the windmill delivery.
Release Point
As you bring your arm around and do a complete windmill with your pitching motion, you will want to release the ball just when it passes hip level. Your hand should be pointing directly at home plate as the ball is released. Finish with your arm at shoulder height. You can put a curving, rising or dropping action on the ball with your finger action at the release point and you can throw a change-of-pace by keeping the ball deep in the palm of your hand.
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