Slow-pitch softball usually features long home runs and high-scoring games. The best hitters know how to drive the ball with power to all fields and take advantage of mistakes by the pitchers. However, it's also a game of fundamentals. Players have to be strong defensively, run the bases well and understand game strategy. Coaches have to make sure that their players keep a team philosophy in mind throughout the game.
Setting Up Your Lineup
When coaching a slow-pitch team, you need to prepare your batting lineup as logically as possible. Put your fastest player at the top of the lineup. This batter should also be a strong line-drive hitter who knows how to get on base. Your second-place hitter should have the same characteristics as your leadoff hitter but may not be quite as accomplished. Your third-, fourth- and fifth-place hitters should be the dominant hitters in your lineup. All should be powerful hitters who can smash the ball out of the ballpark. The sixth-place hitter is also a power hitter, but he may not be quite up to the level of the 3-, 4- and 5-hitters. The seventh- and eighth-place hitters should be smart hitters who can go with the pitch but may not be power hitters. The ninth-place hitter will hopefully have speed and know how to work his way on base. This will give your team a chance to be productive and score consistently.
Defensive Presence
Work on defensive plays and fundamentals with your team before every game. In slow-pitch softball you are not likely going to have a lot of time to practice, but do infield and outfield drills before every game to get your fielders ready. A good coach knows that if you give your opponent extra outs by failing to make the routine plays you will likely lose. Hit three grounders to each infielder. Have them throw to first base with the first ground ball, second base on the second and home with the third.
In order to have the best chance of succeeding, play your best defensive players at shortstop, centerfield and first base. The centerfielder must be able to cover a lot of ground and have a strong throwing arm. The shortstop is the captain of the infield defense and must possess dependable hands and quickness. The first baseman has to be able to catch anything he can get his hands on.
Hitting Philosophy
Players in slow-pitch softball want to hit the ball for distance. That's understandable and can be very effective. However, when the game reaches the late innings and the score is close--within three runs--make sure your players hit the ball where it's pitched and take advantage of the defense. For example, a good right-handed hitter may be able to take an outside pitch and pull it over the head of the left fielder one time out of five. However, if he hits that same pitch to the opposite field, he may get an extra base hit or even a home run with much greater frequency. It will help his team have a better chance to win. Emphasize the importance of hitting the ball where it's pitched when coaching a slow-pitch softball team.
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