In competitive softball, pitching is the dominant factor. When pitchers can throw fastballs at 70 miles an hour and also fire risers, drops, curves and change-ups, the hitter is at a huge disadvantage. Pitchers depend on having a variety of pitches they can command, so they must work regularly at keeping those pitches sharp. Throwing with command and control will allow a pitcher to perform consistently.
The Grip
The pitcher needs to grip the softball correctly. To throw all the pitches consistently, put your thumb on top of the ball and three fingers directly underneath with the small finger on the side of the ball. Spread the three fingers as much as possible on the bottom of the ball as much as possible without straining. This will allow you to have a consistent feel every time you pick up the ball.
Wrist Snap
More than the movement of your arm, it is the wrist snap when you release the ball that will give you great velocity and movement on your pitch. The wrist snap occurs just before the ball reaches your hip as you prepare to release the ball and finishes when your hand is about 12 inches past your hip level as you come forward. One way to practice your wrist snap is to use a "weighted" softball that weighs 10 or 11 ounces. Rest your pitching arm on your knee as you place the other knee on the ground. Flip the weighted softball in the air at least five feet high. After you catch it, flip it again 10 times. Take a 30-second break and repeat the drill. This will build strength in your wrist and allow you to get more velocity when you pitch.
Arm Whip
To pitch effectively, you must be able to whip your arm through the release point. While most experienced pitchers will use a windmill motion to throw with maximum velocity, the key part of gaining speed in your pitches is the arm whip. To practice this part of the pitching motion, bring your arm back so that it is parallel to the ground. Come forward with your arm, and when it is about 12 inches from your hip, accelerate the speed of your arm. This is called arm whip. To practice getting good arm whip, start in the "T" position with your pitching arm parallel to the ground and your gloved hand pointing toward home plate. The position of your two arms will resemble the letter "T." Whip your arm through the pitching zone and do this 10 times. Take a 30-second break and repeat the drill.
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