How to Pitch in Slow Pitch Softball

The pitcher is one of the most important players on a softball field, and this is true even for slow-pitch softball. Even though the pitches are not as fast, and slow pitch softball is more of a hitter’s game than fast-pitch softball, the pitcher is still a vital player that needs to know the proper mechanics and some tricks of the trade in order to make the best of the game.

The Pitch

A slow-pitch pitcher begins by holding the ball in front of her in her dominant hand. She should be standing right behind the pitchers mound with her feet together. Next, she should swing the arm that is holding the ball backward in a similar manner to that of a pendulum. Then continuing the pendulum motion, she should swing the same arm forward while stepping forward with the opposite leg. Stepping forward helps to release the ball with momentum as well as helping in maintaining balance.

When the pitching arm passes her hip, she should release the ball with her palm facing up. Most importantly, she shouldn’t forget to follow through with her pitch. After releasing the ball, her pitching arm should be almost straight up to ensure that ball will stay on its intended path. Once the pitch is complete, she needs to quickly become a fielder and be ready to catch the ball. It is very easy for batters to hit the ball right back to the pitcher, and she certainly doesn’t want to catch the ball with her face!

The Grip

Different pitchers use different grips, and only practice will let you know which one works best for you. One of the best grips for beginning pitchers is the circle grip. With this grip, the thumb and index finger should be around the widest part of the softball. The other fingers should be below the index finger. The hand itself should be shaped like a half circle, similar to the way that a soda can is held in your hand. Numerous grips help the pitcher adjust speed, control and curvature of the ball.

Some Things to Remember

In most leagues, the pitch legally needs to peak at a height between 6-12 feet from the ground. Pitchers should practice pitching anywhere within this range to help throw off the batter. The ball will travel higher if it is released slightly later then when the arm reaches the hip. Just remember that the higher up the pitching arm is when releasing the ball, the less forward the ball will travel since more of its momentum will be directed upwards.

It helps some people to take a step forward or backward while pitching. Either is legal as long as the pivot foot remains in contact with the pitchers mound until the ball is released.

Practice makes perfect and this is skill that will be learned and improved upon over time. It is important to practice throwing while standing on a pitchers mound so you learn how much force you should have when releasing the ball to make it to the batter.

It will take time to develop the skill of pitching and perfect your personal pitch. But the best way to do this is to go out, practice, and enjoy the games you play. Whether you win or lose, you are still learning and improving your softball skills.