The key to pitching well in softball is learning the mechanics involved in getting the ball to home plate consistently. Factors such as grip, arm motion and stride are critical. Releasing the ball is a key part of your delivery and correcting a flaw such as a wrist snap will go a long way toward throwing an accurate pitch.
Arm Rotation
Competitive softball pitchers use the windmill motion to propel the ball toward home plate. This gives you more power and momentum as you deliver the ball. As your arm comes forward, keep it relaxed and straight. Never stiffen your arm because you think it will lead to more power. The tension in your arm will slow down your pitches. Ensure that your wrist is relaxed and loose to get maximum power and accuracy.
Wrist Back
Keep your wrist back as you approach the point where you will release the ball. This will allow you to deliver the ball with force and accuracy. If your wrist is back, you will be in a position to whip your arm forward as you deliver the pitch to home plate.
Release
At the moment of release, your arm will come whipping forward. You should not snap your wrist forward as you get ready to let go of the ball because that will almost always cause the ball to go high as it approaches the batter, according to pitching instructor Gerald Warner. Instead, concentrate on "whipping" your arm forward as you get to the release zone. The whipping action will propel the ball forward and any added wrist snap will negatively affect the accuracy of your pitch.
Finish
Stand tall as the ball leaves your hand. This will draw your shoulders back, which is the correct position as you propel the ball toward the plate. Don't bend at the waist when you let the ball go because this will slow down your pitch. Keep your wrist straight after releasing the ball and bring your hand up to mid-biceps height.
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