Pitching in softball is a job that requires a lot of fine-tuning. Once pitchers learn the basics --- the grip, stride, delivery, and follow-through --- they need to make regular adjustments based on the hitters they are facing, the pitches that are working on that particular day, and the game situation. Small adjustments can mean the difference between victory and defeat in a softball game.
Balance
Fast-pitch hurlers have a complex pitching motion. The windmill style of pitching will give you maximum speed and velocity on your fastball, drops, and risers. However, if you lose your balance or struggle to keep it while pitching, you will not be able to throw strikes. One thing you can do to keep your balance is to make sure your arm passes over your head at the 12 o'clock position. Also make sure you release the ball at your hip as you hit the key point in your delivery. Push off the rubber with your drive leg as you release the ball. These moves will help you stay balanced as you pitch.
Change-Ups
The change-up can be the pitcher's most effective pitch. Eventually, the best hitters will find a way to time your fastball, even when the pitch approaches or exceeds 70 miles per hour. Risers and drops are often thrown at speeds similar to the fastball. They might be a bit slower, but their movement up or down in the strike zone makes them tough to hit. To throw the change-up, you must use the same motion you use to throw your fastball. If you slow your motion down, the batter knows the pitch will come more slowly. In order to throw an effective change-up without changing your motion, place the ball in the palm of your hand. When you throw a fastball, you have to put the ball on your finger tips. With the change-up, however, you must place the ball deep in your hands. That will take 5 to 8 miles per hour off your fastball, and the resulting change-up will often fool the batter.
Angle of Release
There is a natural tendency among inexperienced pitchers to lift or raise their elbow as they release the ball. This will not only take some speed off your fastball, it will also put pressure on your arm, and could lead to injury. Keep the elbow of your pitching arm as close to your body as possible. This will give you more leverage, take stress off your elbow, and allow you to pitch without pain or discomfort.
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