Best Tips for Softball Pitchers
A lot goes into throwing a perfect strike on the softball diamond. But whether you're just starting out in Little League Softball, playing in a local slow-pitch softball league or training for the Olympics, there are some universal softball pitching tips everyone should know. Bownet® has put together this list of the best tips for softball pitchers to use to #TrainLikeAPro.
Softball Pitching Grip
Every pitcher should start by mastering their grip on the softball. While there is technically no wrong way to hold a softball, a grip that creates top-to-bottom rotation is usually best for beginners. To achieve this, rotate the ball so the U-shape of the seam points to one side, then rest your fingers on the seam. You should have a tight grip, but not so tight that you feel straining and tightness. Keep the wrist in line with the rest of your arm without twisting or flexing. Using an oversize raised-seam spinner softball is a great way to work on your grip.
Ball and Glove
A common softball rule is that the pitcher must bring the ball and glove together for at least one second before delivering to the plate. There's no rule about where they must come together, but we recommend doing so at the front of your body near the waist. It's a natural meeting point that maintains a neutral arm position and prevents wasted motion so you have more energy to throw. Practice this so you can get in a comfortable rhythm.
Footwork
The best arm motion won't matter if your lower body is out of control. Proper stance and foot placement are a must. The feet should be roughly shoulder-width apart with the throwing-side foot slightly ahead of the other. Most leagues also require both feet to be contacting the rubber before beginning your delivery without hanging over either side. The ideal fastpitch placement is to have the throwing foot heel on the back center with the ball hanging over the front edge. Place the ball of your non-throwing foot on the back edge of the rubber.
Pitch-Specific Softball Tips
- Fastball - Brush your ear with the bicep at the top of the backswing and brush the hip with your pitching hand when you release. These two points will promote good arm alignment.
- Curveball - Visualize a pathway of dots that travel from the mound to the plate's outside corner and try to follow these dots with your pitch.
- Drop-ball - When throwing this difficult pitch, keep your arm close to the body and move more bodyweight forward than with a fastball.
- Rise-ball - Spread the fingers out and "squeeze" the ball away from your hand when you release it. This will add to the "hop."
- Change-up - Keep the delivery as close as possible to that of your fastball so it remains deceptive.
Work on your delivery and form with softball training equipment from Bownet. We've developed the pitching screens, spinner softballs and accessories you need that are fully portable so you can #PlayAnywherePlayNow.