Hitting in slow-pitch softball is one of the great joys of the game. Unlike baseball or fast-pitch softball, the challenge is not making solid contact. Most experienced players can do that with consistency. But it's not about bashing long fly balls that force outfielders to run and make great catches, either. The idea is to hit hard line drives that are out of reach of the fielders.
Be Comfortable
Take a comfortable stance in the batter's box. Some hitters may like to start in the back of the box, shuffle their feet and move as the ball comes toward them. Others may like a balanced stance and to stay quiet with their feet and hands. There is no right or wrong approach in slow-pitch softball. You simply need to feel comfortable in the box.
Analyze the Game Situation
Assess the situation carefully as you step into the box. Is it late in the game? Does your team need a run to tie or take the lead? Is there a runner in scoring position? Take all these factors into account. If you are up in the last half of the seventh, and final, inning and the winning run is on second base, try to hit the ball hard to an open area. In a case like that, the most important thing is to win the game. It's not about bashing the ball for distance.
Go With the Pitch
Hit the ball where it's pitched. Even if you are a power hitter with a propensity for launching home runs, you are better off hitting a high-arc pitch in slow-pitch softball where it is pitched. If you are a right-handed batter, hit the outside pitch to right field. If the pitch is down the middle, hit it to center field. If it is to the inside portion of the plate, pull it to left field. The size and bulk of the softball can make it difficult to pull when it is on the outside portion of the plate. The best slow-pitch hitters go with the pitch.
Be Patient
This is one of the most important factors in hitting the ball at any level of baseball or softball. Wait as long as possible to pull the trigger when you are in the batter's box. The longer you can wait, the easier it will be to put the barrel of the bat on the ball. That contact will come when the ball is in the strike zone and will help you drive the ball the furthest and hit the ball hard each time you swing.
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