Softball is a very demanding sport, like baseball, with excellent timing and hand-eye coordination required to contact pitches and send them into play for a base hit. Keeping your eye on the ball is one of the most important traits of good hitters. The best softball players will drive down and through the ball, sending it on a line drive or hard on the ground. This is only possible by keeping your eye on the ball.
Step 1
Complete your pre-pitch routine. Get comfortable in the batter's box and be ready to swing before the pitcher begins her windup.
Step 2
Focus intently on the pitcher and her movements. Anticipate the ball being thrown and peg the location that the pitcher will release the pitch.
Step 3
Stare intently at the pitcher's glove as they complete their windup and deliver the pitch. You need to see the ball all the way to the bat, or the catcher's glove if it misses the strike zone.
Step 4
Block out all other distractions by narrowing your mental focus. Think only positive thoughts about the pitch at hand, and try your hardest to deliver the bat to the ball.
Step 5
Pick up the ball as soon as it leaves the pitcher's hand. Focus in as close as you can to detect any spin or movement, which will signify the breaking pitch.
Step 6
Drive your lead leg into the ground ahead of the plate. Rely on experience and training to deliver the bat to the proper spot on the plate, at the correct angle.
Step 7
Step into the pitch. Never flinch, twist away or bail out, because these actions will take your eye off the ball.
Step 8
Drive the bat through the strike zone for the best chance at power and contact.
Tips and Warnings
- Being hit, while painful at first, is part of the game and happens to everyone. Don't let the fear of being hit with the softball take away from focusing on the pitched ball.
- Without the use of proper protection -- including a batting helmet -- pitched and batted softballs can be extremely dangerous.
Things You'll Need
- Softball bat
- Batting gloves
- Batting helmet
- Pitcher
- Catcher
- Batter's box
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