Pitching is one of the most important factors in any competitive softball game. In fastpitch softball, games often are low-scoring because pitchers regularly use the windmill style and throw fastballs that approach speeds of 70 miles per hour. However, in modified softball, the windmill style is considered illegal and pitchers must use other windups and motions when they fire the ball to the catcher.
Step-and-Fire
In the modified pitching style, pitchers are not allowed to use a windmill motion, where their pitching arm rotates completely in a full circle before delivering. In addition to that limitation, a pitcher is prohibited from attempting to deceive the batter with her motion. That means she must come directly at the batter and may not take any step backward. Many pitchers choose to step and fire the ball home by taking one step with their left foot toward home plate and then slinging the ball to home plate. This is usually used by fast ball pitchers, and the stride is usually 30 inches or more. This will provide the pitcher with a powerful fastball, but one that is usually considered more hittable than one coming from a windmill motion.
Short Stride
If a long stride benefits the hard throwers in modified softball, a short stride will help a pitcher with his offspeed pitches. A stride of 12 to 18 inches is ideal for pitchers who throw drops and changeups. The limited stride will promote a natural sinking action of the ball for drops, and if you hold the ball deeper in your hand, you will slow the pitch down when you release it.
Full Release
While you cannot bring the ball around in a full revolution when you pitch in a modified softball league, you can bring the ball back to shoulder height. You will get plenty of power with this delivery when your arm is parallel to the ground. The definition of a getting a full release in modified softball is the "T" position. When your arm is extended as far back as modified rules allow, your gloved hand will be extended forward, forming the letter "T."
Submarine Style
The submarine style of pitching is an easy style for most pitchers to learn, and it meets the guidelines of the modified pitching style because it does not require a windmill motion. With the submarine style, you will place your hand on the ball and keep it in your glove. Your pitching hand and your gloved hand will both be on your right hip, assuming you are a right-handed pitcher. Bring your pitching hand back around 12 inches and then bring it forward quickly. This modified delivery has a short windup and a short follow through. It can be difficult for the batter to adjust to because the pitcher gets rid of the ball very quickly from a low angle.
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