Softball batters often encounter pitchers who avoid throwing over the middle of the plate in certain situations. A good pitcher can locate the ball over the inside or outside part of the plate and catch the average batter looking at strike three. A contact hitter understands how to go with a particular pitch and drive the ball through gaps in the defense. Your ability to trigger the bat correctly is the key to hitting an inside or outside pitch and getting on base.
Inside Pitch
Step 1
Take your normal stance in the batter's box with a bat cocked and ready. You goal is to identify the inside pitch and bring your hands through early and ahead of the barrel of the bat. Done correctly, you drive the ball up the middle to one side of second base.
Step 2
Watch the ball as it comes off the pitcher's hand and identify the inside pitch. Rock your weight onto your back foot as the ball approaches and straighten your stance to allow room for your hands at waist level. Do not move your feet or lean back.
Step 3
Trigger the bat an instant sooner than normal by bringing your hands close to your waist. Rotate your upper body as you swing the bat with your elbows slightly bent. Extend your arms as you follow through.
Step 4
Avoid rolling your wrists at the moment of contact. This disrupts the line of the bat. Trust your ability to target and hit the softball. Your wrists roll naturally as you follow through.
Outside Pitch
Step 1
Take your normal stance in the batter's box with a bat cocked and ready. You goal is to identify the outside pitch and take your normal swing an instant later than you do with a ball that's over the middle of the plate. Done correctly, you drive the ball to the opposite field.
Step 2
Watch the ball as it comes off the pitcher's hand and identify the outside pitch. Rock your weight onto your back foot as the ball approaches and keep your knees flexed.
Step 3
Trigger the bat and extend your arms just as the ball approaches home plate. Avoid any inclination to reach out for the ball or shift your weight forward. This neutralizes your power and alters the path of the bat.
Step 4
Take a full swing and roll your wrists forward as you make contact. You body weight shifts naturally as you follow through.
Tips and Warnings
- Talk with your manager or coach and discuss scenarios where you might expect an inside or outside pitch.
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