Fastpitch softball pitchers need power and finesse. The sweeping, underarm motion poses its own unique set of challenges and requires pitchers to master a variety of techniques. But before you can strike out the side with a series of overpowering fastballs and deceptive change-ups, you need to learn the basics. A few simple drills can have beginners pitching like an ace in no time.
Wrist Snap
Softball pitchers need to learn an effective wrist snap as part of their pitching delivery. The wrist snap provides power and can be used to spin the ball for extra movement. A simple wrist snap drill involves standing 10 feet away from your catcher with your pitching arm down at your side. Without a windup or any arm movement whatsoever, throw the ball to the catcher with only a wrist snap. Pull the ball back, lifting the back of your hand to the sky, and snap it forward, releasing the ball and following through so your palm faces the sky. Perform 4 sets of at least 15 repetitions.
Balance
Beginning softball pitchers must remember to move forward in a straight line. Stepping to either side on your follow through will sacrifice power and accuracy. To help promote proper balance, place a 4-by-4 wooden plank on the ground. Perform your entire pitching motion while standing on the plank. Only pitches thrown with proper balance will allow you to remain on the wood.
9 o'Clock Drill
Many young pitchers have difficulty closing their hips after release and finishing in a ready fielding position. To correct the problem, stand on the rubber and face third base, or 9 o’clock. Raise the ball straight up over your head and extend your glove directly at home plate. Now swing your pitching arm through and deliver a hard pitch, taking just the one step and finishing square to home plate. If you’re a lefty, start the drill facing first base.
Long Toss
A staple of any pitching workout, long toss works for softball too. Start by throwing pitches to a catcher from slightly behind the pitching rubber. After you’re loose, step back 5 feet and attempt three more pitches. Continue moving back in 5-foot increments until you can no longer accurately pitch the ball to the catcher. Once you’ve reached your limit, return to the last successful distance and throw three more pitches. By pitching from longer distances, you’ll build arm strength and improve accuracy.
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