The pitcher in softball has to put the ball in play legally every time she takes the mound. There are rules on how the ball must be delivered to home plate, and pitchers may not be deceptive as they deliver the ball. In fastpitch softball, pitchers can throw the ball at speeds approaching 70 mph. That's the equivalent of a 95-plus mph fastball in baseball. As a result, the rules of the game are designed to give batters a fair chance to compete.
Direct Delivery
Once the pitcher starts her delivery, there can be no delay as she comes forward. The windup must be continuous and there can be no reversal in the delivery form in which the pitcher incorporates backwards movement. The ball must be delivered in an underhand motion, and the pivot foot must constantly remain in contact with the pitching rubber.
Foreign Substance
The pitcher is not allowed to deliver a ball to home plate that has any foreign substance on it. This includes pine tar, Vaseline or any other type of substance. The pitcher must present the ball immediately to the umpire if it is asked for. If any foreign substance is on the ball after the inspection, the umpire may eject the pitcher from the game.
Quick Pitch
The pitcher may not deliver any quick pitches to the batter. This means the batter must have her feet set in the batter's box and ready to accept a pitch. Also, if a batter is off-balance as a result of a previous pitch, the pitcher may not deliver the ball until the batter is ready.
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