Softball is similar to baseball in many ways, but one notable difference is the size of the ball—softballs are much larger in circumference. This small change actually has a significant effect on the way the game is played. The size of the ball makes it difficult to throw at high speeds using the same overhand motion used in baseball. As a result, an underhand pitch was developed, allowing pitchers to deliver fast pitches while maintaining ball control. This pitch's technique is easily learned, but it can take years of practice to master.
Step 1
Hold the softball in your pitching hand, and cup the pitching hand with your glove. Hold your hands out in front of you, just below your line of sight to the catcher's mitt. Your weight should rest on the leg opposite your throwing arm, and this leg should be set out in front of the other one.
Step 2
Lower your hands, then lift the softball out, up and over your head, entering into a windmill motion. Step forward with your back leg, keeping your weight on the original lead leg.
Step 3
Swing the softball over your head and around behind your back. As the ball drops past your shoulders down toward the hip, shift your weight to your inside leg—the one closest to the ball—and take another step with your outside leg. This leg should move forward just ahead of your throwing arm, helping to build momentum and speed onto the end of your toss.
Step 4
Bring the softball alongside, and then past, your hip. This is the point at which you will release the ball. Your palm should be inside facing the softball and squared away with home plate. As the ball passes your hip, flick your wrist and fingers upward to put spin on the ball and provide one last burst of speed as the softball leaves your hand.
Step 5
Follow through on your toss by raising your hand toward the sky and shifting your weight back onto your outside foot.
Things You'll Need
- Softball
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