Fast-pitch softball is a competitive game that features dominant pitching. Even when it is played at the public school level, pitchers are in the process of learning the windmill technique that allows them to throw the ball with velocity and power. Youth softball leagues set standards for the number of players that may be used on the field and how the game is to be played.
Pitching Rules
Pitchers may throw their pitches with a windmill delivery in public school softball. However, they can only step forward when delivering the ball. Pitchers who step backward or take a step to the side are throwing an illegal pitch because those motions are considered deceptive. Pitchers may not make any deceptive movements when delivering the ball. Pitchers may throw risers, drops, curves and changeups in addition to throwing fastballs.
Game Format
In public school softball, games are seven innings. If the home team is ahead after the visiting team has batted in the top of the seventh inning, the home team does not bat. If four innings have been completed and weather conditions prevent the game from being completed, the game is considered official. If either team is ahead by 15 runs after five innings or 10 runs after six innings, the game is over as a result of the mercy rule. If the game is tied at the end of seven innings, extra innings will be played until one team secures an advantage after a full inning.
Number of Players
Softball is played with 10 players in the field and 10 players in the batting order. The extra fielder usually plays in the outfield, but the coach can position the extra fielder anywhere in fair territory. All 10 fielders may bat, but the coach may choose to use a designated hitter for any of the fielders. The designated hitter does not have to bat for the pitcher, as is the case in professional baseball. The coach can choose to not use a designated hitter. However, if a team starts a game without using the designated hitter, it cannot choose to use her later in the game.
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