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Looking for the ultimate book to help you learn and master softball’s essential skills? Look no further than the guide that has helped develop the game’s top players and most successful teams. This new edition of Softball Skills & Drills is completely updated with more skills, more drills and strategies, and more of the stellar instruction that have made it the top-selling title on the sport.
Judi Garman, one of the winningest coaches in NCAA history, teams with Cal State Fullerton’s Michelle Gromacki to share their secrets to developing and mastering every aspect of the game.
With step-by-step instruction, full-color photo sequences, technique tips, and unique insight into the game, you’ll learn every fundamental skill:
•Hitting
•Bunting
•Slap Hitting
•Baserunning
•Sliding
•Fielding
•Throwing
•Pitching
•Catching
And with over 230 of the game’s best drills, coverage of team offense and defense, pitch selection, pitch recognition, and in-game strategies, Softball Skills and Drills is simply the most comprehensive and practical guide on the sport.
Whether striving to become a complete player or preparing your team for another championship run, Softball Skills &Drills is the one book you cannot be without.
Chapter 1: Hitting
Chapter 2: Bunting and Slap Hitting
Chapter 3: Baserunning, Stealing, and Sliding
Chapter 4: Team Offense
Chapter 5: Throwing
Chapter 6: Catching
Chapter 7: Infield
Chapter 8: Outfield
Chapter 9: Team Defense
Chapter 10: Pitching Fundamentals
Chapter 11: Movement and Off-Speed Pitches
Chapter 12: Pitching Practice and Game Management
Chapter 13: The Pitcher as a Defensive Player
Chapter 14: The Catcher
Judi Garman is one of the most successful coaches in college softball history, having retired as the nation’s winningest coach in 2000 after coaching for 28 seasons and earning a career record of 1124-416-4(.727) and 7 national championships as a player and coach.
Garman was a Canadian all-star outfielder and member of two Canadian national championship teams. Garman began her coaching career at Golden West College in Huntington Beach, California, and won four consecutive national junior college championships from 1975 to 1978. She then established the softball program at California State University at Fullerton in 1980. She built it into one of the most successful softball programs in the United States, winning the Women’s College World Series Championship in 1986 following two runner-up and three third-place finishes. From 2000 to 2002, Garman coached the Italian National Team to a European Championship and a fifth-place finish at the 2002 ISF World Championship.
Garman served as president of the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) from 1990 to 1991 and was inducted into their Hall of Fame in 1993. She resides in Redstone (Aspen), Colorado, and Palm Desert, California.
Michelle Gromacki is the head coach of Cal State Fullerton softball, one of the most prestigious programs in the nation. Under Gromacki’s guidance, the Titans have staked their claim to five Big West Conference championships, including four consecutive conference titles from 2000 to 2003. In 2006,Gromacki was named Regional Coach of the year.
Gromacki served as an assistant coach for the U.S. national team from 2001 to 2004. More recently, she served as assistant coach of the U.S. women’s national team at the 2010 ISF World Championship in Venezuela.
Michelle Gromacki played for Cal State Fullerton and was the catcher on the 1996 national championship team. She continued her playing career with the Redding Rebels and took home three national championship titles in women’s major fastpitch. She was also on the U.S. national team for 10 years. She competed in many international tournaments and won gold medals in all of them.
Gromacki is one of the NFCA college coaches instructors and also conducts speaking engagements all over the world. She resides in Huntington Beach, California.
"Softball Skills & Drills is a must-have for every player. Judi Garman and Michelle Gromacki offer hundreds of drills and skills needed for success in fastpitch."
Jenny Topping --Olympic Gold Medalist and Two-Time World Cup Champion
"It’s not often that you get the perspective of a tremendous player and a Hall of Fame coach in one book. Judi and Michelle offer insight and teaching cues that will benefit players and coaches of all ages!"
Mike Candrea -- Head Softball Coach, University of Arizona, NCAA National Champions: 1991, ’93, ’94, ’96, ’97, 2001, ’06, ’07
"Judi Garman and Michelle Gromacki do a great job of describing the correct skills and drills for helping players improve. Softball Skills and Drills is an outstanding reference for all aspects of the game and a must for every softball coach."
Jay Miller --Head Softball Coach, Mississippi State University, USA National Team
Cone Rolls Drill
View a drill from Softball Skills and Drills.
Purpose: To increase range while staying behind the ball.
Procedure: Place two cones about 12 feet apart to serve as targets and boundaries. A tosser with a ball stands about 15 feet in front of each cone. A fielder takes a position midway between the cones and several steps in front of them so that the cones will not interfere with her movement. The first tosser rolls a ball toward a cone. The fielder sidesteps to the ball, gathers it in, returns it underhand to the tosser, resets in the middle, and then goes the other way to field a ball rolled by the second tosser. The fielder must concentrate on footwork and staying square behind the ball.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Running slap gives left-handed batters an advantage
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap.
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap. The lefty is already several steps closer to first. Adding a running start puts tremendous pressure on the defense to make the play quickly. The play often moves the defense out of position as well. To be successful, the batter should have good speed and the ability to put the ball in play.
The batter stands in her standard hitting position so that she does not tip off the defense. The slapper must be in a position where the crossover step will put her on the lines of the front inside corner of the box. To execute the slap, the hitter runs first and hits second. She starts to move when the ball leaves the pitcher's hand. She must not anticipate the release. If she starts too soon, she will have to stop moving to slap the ball or will be way out of the box. The first step is a small jab step with the right foot, either forward or backward. The jab step acts as a timing mechanism. The left foot crosses aggressively over the right foot directly toward the pitcher (see figure 2.6a). The left foot should land on the front line of the box on the inside corner. The right foot then opens slightly toward the pitcher. If the jab step is not used, the first step must include a pivot that opens the hips to the pitcher. The hips are square, but the front shoulder stays closed to permit total plate coverage.
The hands are held close to the body and high in the strike zone on the swing. The front side and front shoulder remain closed. The batter can use a choke grip for good bat control. The bat head is above the hands, which come forward with the crossover step. Both the bat head and the hands are above the ball, and the batter should try to hit the top half of the ball. The batter must be careful not to drop her hands at the start of the swing. She hits the ball as the left foot lands on the front line. The swing is an inside-outside swing. The knob is first, the head of the bat stays back, and the swing is down. The knob and hands stay inside the path of the ball. The hands are out in front. To hit to the left side, the batter should be late with the head of the bat. The batter contacts the ball behind her body and hits down to the ground to put the ball in play.
On the slap follow-through, the batter rolls through the box, being in motion as she hits the ball (see figure 2.6b). She does not need to be moving fast; the important thing is that she is in motion. The slapper continues running toward the pitcher after contact, being careful not to turn early to run to first. On the follow-through, the bat is an extension of the right arm. The batter follows through with the bat in the right hand.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills, Second Edition.
Proper footwork key to catching fly balls
Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball.
Proper footwork and body positioning are the foundation for catching fly balls successfully. Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball. The coach should throw balls to fielders instead of hitting them. This enables the coach to place the balls exactly where they need to be in order to isolate each technique. Players must also practice reacting to balls hit off the bat, but in these drills, hitting rather than throwing the ball takes a lot of time and creates difficulty placing the ball in the desired location.
Drop-Step Reaction
Purpose: To learn to react and drop step to the appropriate side.
Procedure: The coach faces the players, who are in a staggered position in three or four lines. The coach points in a direction with a ball. Players react with a drop step in that direction. They then assume the ready position (exactly where they are) and repeat. When the drop step becomes automatic, players add the turn with inside and outside rolls.
Zigzag
Purpose: To execute proper footwork on the inside roll, good balance, and quick feet for fielding. This is a good warm-up drill.
Procedure: Players stand side by side in a line about 10 feet (3 m) apart from one another and face the coach. The coach points in either direction to begin the drill. Players run diagonally back using a drop step, run three steps, and then use an inside roll to change direction. They run three steps and again reverse direction. They continue zigzagging down the field.
Ball Toss for Inside and Outside Rolls
Purpose: To practice proper footwork for catching fly balls.
Procedure: Each player has a ball and lines up behind the coach or a tosser. The first fielder takes a position facing the tosser about 20 feet (6 m) away. All the players in the line complete each step before they move to the next:
1. The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement and then tosses a ball to that side for the fielder to catch. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
2. Inside roll: The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement, then tosses the ball to the opposite side, forcing the fielder to use an inside roll to catch the ball. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
3. Outside roll: The fielder executes the previous step but with an outside roll, then goes to the end of the line.
4. Ball overhead: The fielder runs directly away from the tosser and turns her head to find and catch the ball; then she goes to the end of the line.
Football
Purpose: To work on catching fly balls with good balance, glove work, and footwork.
Procedure: Each player has a softball. The player gives the ball to the coach and then starts running straight ahead with her back to the coach. The coach calls right or left and throws the ball in that direction. The fielder catches the ball and sprints to the end of the line behind the coach. A throw of 30 to 60 feet (6 to 18 m) is sufficient and allows for more practice than a very long throw.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Mastering the stiff-wrist changeup
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher.
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher. A problem with the stiff-wrist release is a tendency to stop the hand completely with no follow-through or to slow the arm way down at the back of the motion and give the pitch away. Also, it can be difficult to avoid snapping the wrist because doing so is so important for all other pitches. This technique is just the opposite of what the pitcher has worked so hard to develop. Now she palms the ball, locks the wrist, and pushes the ball.
- Grip—The more skin on the ball, the slower the speed. Putting the ball deep in the hand against the palm locks or stiffens the wrist, greatly reducing the speed. Palming the ball with the fingers going with the seams causes any rotation to be a two-seam rotation. When gripping across the seams, pitchers tend to snap the ball and pull on the seams, thus increasing the speed. Going with the seams helps break this habit. Placing the thumb on a seam helps with control.
The pitcher can try using one, two, or four knuckles on the ball; or she can use the fingertips on the ball. When using the fingertips on the ball, the fingers should be bent, and the nails should be digging into the seams or just in front of the seams (see figure 11.18a). If the knuckle grip is being used, the pitcher should grip the ball firmly with the thumb and little finger while placing the first bend (flat fingernail portion) against the ball's surface (see figure 11.18b). The grip must be secure enough that the pitcher can use her regular fastball motion without fear of losing her grip on the ball. The size of a pitcher's hands will eliminate the use of some grips. One problem with the knuckleball is that it is very easy for the hitters and opposing coaches to pick up because the pitcher cannot easily hide the knuckles coming off the ball. For this reason, the knuckleball is less popular at higher levels of play.
- Spin—The ball may or may not spin. The lack of speed, not ball movement, is what makes the pitch effective, so spin is not a concern.
- Mechanics—Differences in mechanics between the changeup and other pitches should be few and never visible to the batter. The pitcher locks or stiffens her wrist at the release point by spreading her fingers as wide as possible and pushing the ball with her palm. She does not use the fingers to push the ball because this would result in speed. Normal hand speed must be maintained into the release point. If the hand slows, the pitcher will tip the pitch and lose needed distance. The release is in front of the back hip. The pitcher must focus on staying under the ball and reaching out to hand the ball to the catcher (see figure 11.19). For some pitchers, stopping the wrist at the side by bumping the hip is effective.
- Follow-through—The pitcher should keep the follow-through low so that the pitch stays down in the strike zone. She turns her hand down at release as if shaking the catcher's hand. She may want to experiment with bumping the hip to stop the arm and limit the follow-through, or she may even try pulling back after releasing the ball.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Cone Rolls Drill
View a drill from Softball Skills and Drills.
Purpose: To increase range while staying behind the ball.
Procedure: Place two cones about 12 feet apart to serve as targets and boundaries. A tosser with a ball stands about 15 feet in front of each cone. A fielder takes a position midway between the cones and several steps in front of them so that the cones will not interfere with her movement. The first tosser rolls a ball toward a cone. The fielder sidesteps to the ball, gathers it in, returns it underhand to the tosser, resets in the middle, and then goes the other way to field a ball rolled by the second tosser. The fielder must concentrate on footwork and staying square behind the ball.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Running slap gives left-handed batters an advantage
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap.
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap. The lefty is already several steps closer to first. Adding a running start puts tremendous pressure on the defense to make the play quickly. The play often moves the defense out of position as well. To be successful, the batter should have good speed and the ability to put the ball in play.
The batter stands in her standard hitting position so that she does not tip off the defense. The slapper must be in a position where the crossover step will put her on the lines of the front inside corner of the box. To execute the slap, the hitter runs first and hits second. She starts to move when the ball leaves the pitcher's hand. She must not anticipate the release. If she starts too soon, she will have to stop moving to slap the ball or will be way out of the box. The first step is a small jab step with the right foot, either forward or backward. The jab step acts as a timing mechanism. The left foot crosses aggressively over the right foot directly toward the pitcher (see figure 2.6a). The left foot should land on the front line of the box on the inside corner. The right foot then opens slightly toward the pitcher. If the jab step is not used, the first step must include a pivot that opens the hips to the pitcher. The hips are square, but the front shoulder stays closed to permit total plate coverage.
The hands are held close to the body and high in the strike zone on the swing. The front side and front shoulder remain closed. The batter can use a choke grip for good bat control. The bat head is above the hands, which come forward with the crossover step. Both the bat head and the hands are above the ball, and the batter should try to hit the top half of the ball. The batter must be careful not to drop her hands at the start of the swing. She hits the ball as the left foot lands on the front line. The swing is an inside-outside swing. The knob is first, the head of the bat stays back, and the swing is down. The knob and hands stay inside the path of the ball. The hands are out in front. To hit to the left side, the batter should be late with the head of the bat. The batter contacts the ball behind her body and hits down to the ground to put the ball in play.
On the slap follow-through, the batter rolls through the box, being in motion as she hits the ball (see figure 2.6b). She does not need to be moving fast; the important thing is that she is in motion. The slapper continues running toward the pitcher after contact, being careful not to turn early to run to first. On the follow-through, the bat is an extension of the right arm. The batter follows through with the bat in the right hand.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills, Second Edition.
Proper footwork key to catching fly balls
Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball.
Proper footwork and body positioning are the foundation for catching fly balls successfully. Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball. The coach should throw balls to fielders instead of hitting them. This enables the coach to place the balls exactly where they need to be in order to isolate each technique. Players must also practice reacting to balls hit off the bat, but in these drills, hitting rather than throwing the ball takes a lot of time and creates difficulty placing the ball in the desired location.
Drop-Step Reaction
Purpose: To learn to react and drop step to the appropriate side.
Procedure: The coach faces the players, who are in a staggered position in three or four lines. The coach points in a direction with a ball. Players react with a drop step in that direction. They then assume the ready position (exactly where they are) and repeat. When the drop step becomes automatic, players add the turn with inside and outside rolls.
Zigzag
Purpose: To execute proper footwork on the inside roll, good balance, and quick feet for fielding. This is a good warm-up drill.
Procedure: Players stand side by side in a line about 10 feet (3 m) apart from one another and face the coach. The coach points in either direction to begin the drill. Players run diagonally back using a drop step, run three steps, and then use an inside roll to change direction. They run three steps and again reverse direction. They continue zigzagging down the field.
Ball Toss for Inside and Outside Rolls
Purpose: To practice proper footwork for catching fly balls.
Procedure: Each player has a ball and lines up behind the coach or a tosser. The first fielder takes a position facing the tosser about 20 feet (6 m) away. All the players in the line complete each step before they move to the next:
1. The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement and then tosses a ball to that side for the fielder to catch. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
2. Inside roll: The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement, then tosses the ball to the opposite side, forcing the fielder to use an inside roll to catch the ball. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
3. Outside roll: The fielder executes the previous step but with an outside roll, then goes to the end of the line.
4. Ball overhead: The fielder runs directly away from the tosser and turns her head to find and catch the ball; then she goes to the end of the line.
Football
Purpose: To work on catching fly balls with good balance, glove work, and footwork.
Procedure: Each player has a softball. The player gives the ball to the coach and then starts running straight ahead with her back to the coach. The coach calls right or left and throws the ball in that direction. The fielder catches the ball and sprints to the end of the line behind the coach. A throw of 30 to 60 feet (6 to 18 m) is sufficient and allows for more practice than a very long throw.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Mastering the stiff-wrist changeup
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher.
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher. A problem with the stiff-wrist release is a tendency to stop the hand completely with no follow-through or to slow the arm way down at the back of the motion and give the pitch away. Also, it can be difficult to avoid snapping the wrist because doing so is so important for all other pitches. This technique is just the opposite of what the pitcher has worked so hard to develop. Now she palms the ball, locks the wrist, and pushes the ball.
- Grip—The more skin on the ball, the slower the speed. Putting the ball deep in the hand against the palm locks or stiffens the wrist, greatly reducing the speed. Palming the ball with the fingers going with the seams causes any rotation to be a two-seam rotation. When gripping across the seams, pitchers tend to snap the ball and pull on the seams, thus increasing the speed. Going with the seams helps break this habit. Placing the thumb on a seam helps with control.
The pitcher can try using one, two, or four knuckles on the ball; or she can use the fingertips on the ball. When using the fingertips on the ball, the fingers should be bent, and the nails should be digging into the seams or just in front of the seams (see figure 11.18a). If the knuckle grip is being used, the pitcher should grip the ball firmly with the thumb and little finger while placing the first bend (flat fingernail portion) against the ball's surface (see figure 11.18b). The grip must be secure enough that the pitcher can use her regular fastball motion without fear of losing her grip on the ball. The size of a pitcher's hands will eliminate the use of some grips. One problem with the knuckleball is that it is very easy for the hitters and opposing coaches to pick up because the pitcher cannot easily hide the knuckles coming off the ball. For this reason, the knuckleball is less popular at higher levels of play.
- Spin—The ball may or may not spin. The lack of speed, not ball movement, is what makes the pitch effective, so spin is not a concern.
- Mechanics—Differences in mechanics between the changeup and other pitches should be few and never visible to the batter. The pitcher locks or stiffens her wrist at the release point by spreading her fingers as wide as possible and pushing the ball with her palm. She does not use the fingers to push the ball because this would result in speed. Normal hand speed must be maintained into the release point. If the hand slows, the pitcher will tip the pitch and lose needed distance. The release is in front of the back hip. The pitcher must focus on staying under the ball and reaching out to hand the ball to the catcher (see figure 11.19). For some pitchers, stopping the wrist at the side by bumping the hip is effective.
- Follow-through—The pitcher should keep the follow-through low so that the pitch stays down in the strike zone. She turns her hand down at release as if shaking the catcher's hand. She may want to experiment with bumping the hip to stop the arm and limit the follow-through, or she may even try pulling back after releasing the ball.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Cone Rolls Drill
View a drill from Softball Skills and Drills.
Purpose: To increase range while staying behind the ball.
Procedure: Place two cones about 12 feet apart to serve as targets and boundaries. A tosser with a ball stands about 15 feet in front of each cone. A fielder takes a position midway between the cones and several steps in front of them so that the cones will not interfere with her movement. The first tosser rolls a ball toward a cone. The fielder sidesteps to the ball, gathers it in, returns it underhand to the tosser, resets in the middle, and then goes the other way to field a ball rolled by the second tosser. The fielder must concentrate on footwork and staying square behind the ball.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Running slap gives left-handed batters an advantage
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap.
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap. The lefty is already several steps closer to first. Adding a running start puts tremendous pressure on the defense to make the play quickly. The play often moves the defense out of position as well. To be successful, the batter should have good speed and the ability to put the ball in play.
The batter stands in her standard hitting position so that she does not tip off the defense. The slapper must be in a position where the crossover step will put her on the lines of the front inside corner of the box. To execute the slap, the hitter runs first and hits second. She starts to move when the ball leaves the pitcher's hand. She must not anticipate the release. If she starts too soon, she will have to stop moving to slap the ball or will be way out of the box. The first step is a small jab step with the right foot, either forward or backward. The jab step acts as a timing mechanism. The left foot crosses aggressively over the right foot directly toward the pitcher (see figure 2.6a). The left foot should land on the front line of the box on the inside corner. The right foot then opens slightly toward the pitcher. If the jab step is not used, the first step must include a pivot that opens the hips to the pitcher. The hips are square, but the front shoulder stays closed to permit total plate coverage.
The hands are held close to the body and high in the strike zone on the swing. The front side and front shoulder remain closed. The batter can use a choke grip for good bat control. The bat head is above the hands, which come forward with the crossover step. Both the bat head and the hands are above the ball, and the batter should try to hit the top half of the ball. The batter must be careful not to drop her hands at the start of the swing. She hits the ball as the left foot lands on the front line. The swing is an inside-outside swing. The knob is first, the head of the bat stays back, and the swing is down. The knob and hands stay inside the path of the ball. The hands are out in front. To hit to the left side, the batter should be late with the head of the bat. The batter contacts the ball behind her body and hits down to the ground to put the ball in play.
On the slap follow-through, the batter rolls through the box, being in motion as she hits the ball (see figure 2.6b). She does not need to be moving fast; the important thing is that she is in motion. The slapper continues running toward the pitcher after contact, being careful not to turn early to run to first. On the follow-through, the bat is an extension of the right arm. The batter follows through with the bat in the right hand.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills, Second Edition.
Proper footwork key to catching fly balls
Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball.
Proper footwork and body positioning are the foundation for catching fly balls successfully. Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball. The coach should throw balls to fielders instead of hitting them. This enables the coach to place the balls exactly where they need to be in order to isolate each technique. Players must also practice reacting to balls hit off the bat, but in these drills, hitting rather than throwing the ball takes a lot of time and creates difficulty placing the ball in the desired location.
Drop-Step Reaction
Purpose: To learn to react and drop step to the appropriate side.
Procedure: The coach faces the players, who are in a staggered position in three or four lines. The coach points in a direction with a ball. Players react with a drop step in that direction. They then assume the ready position (exactly where they are) and repeat. When the drop step becomes automatic, players add the turn with inside and outside rolls.
Zigzag
Purpose: To execute proper footwork on the inside roll, good balance, and quick feet for fielding. This is a good warm-up drill.
Procedure: Players stand side by side in a line about 10 feet (3 m) apart from one another and face the coach. The coach points in either direction to begin the drill. Players run diagonally back using a drop step, run three steps, and then use an inside roll to change direction. They run three steps and again reverse direction. They continue zigzagging down the field.
Ball Toss for Inside and Outside Rolls
Purpose: To practice proper footwork for catching fly balls.
Procedure: Each player has a ball and lines up behind the coach or a tosser. The first fielder takes a position facing the tosser about 20 feet (6 m) away. All the players in the line complete each step before they move to the next:
1. The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement and then tosses a ball to that side for the fielder to catch. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
2. Inside roll: The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement, then tosses the ball to the opposite side, forcing the fielder to use an inside roll to catch the ball. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
3. Outside roll: The fielder executes the previous step but with an outside roll, then goes to the end of the line.
4. Ball overhead: The fielder runs directly away from the tosser and turns her head to find and catch the ball; then she goes to the end of the line.
Football
Purpose: To work on catching fly balls with good balance, glove work, and footwork.
Procedure: Each player has a softball. The player gives the ball to the coach and then starts running straight ahead with her back to the coach. The coach calls right or left and throws the ball in that direction. The fielder catches the ball and sprints to the end of the line behind the coach. A throw of 30 to 60 feet (6 to 18 m) is sufficient and allows for more practice than a very long throw.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Mastering the stiff-wrist changeup
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher.
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher. A problem with the stiff-wrist release is a tendency to stop the hand completely with no follow-through or to slow the arm way down at the back of the motion and give the pitch away. Also, it can be difficult to avoid snapping the wrist because doing so is so important for all other pitches. This technique is just the opposite of what the pitcher has worked so hard to develop. Now she palms the ball, locks the wrist, and pushes the ball.
- Grip—The more skin on the ball, the slower the speed. Putting the ball deep in the hand against the palm locks or stiffens the wrist, greatly reducing the speed. Palming the ball with the fingers going with the seams causes any rotation to be a two-seam rotation. When gripping across the seams, pitchers tend to snap the ball and pull on the seams, thus increasing the speed. Going with the seams helps break this habit. Placing the thumb on a seam helps with control.
The pitcher can try using one, two, or four knuckles on the ball; or she can use the fingertips on the ball. When using the fingertips on the ball, the fingers should be bent, and the nails should be digging into the seams or just in front of the seams (see figure 11.18a). If the knuckle grip is being used, the pitcher should grip the ball firmly with the thumb and little finger while placing the first bend (flat fingernail portion) against the ball's surface (see figure 11.18b). The grip must be secure enough that the pitcher can use her regular fastball motion without fear of losing her grip on the ball. The size of a pitcher's hands will eliminate the use of some grips. One problem with the knuckleball is that it is very easy for the hitters and opposing coaches to pick up because the pitcher cannot easily hide the knuckles coming off the ball. For this reason, the knuckleball is less popular at higher levels of play.
- Spin—The ball may or may not spin. The lack of speed, not ball movement, is what makes the pitch effective, so spin is not a concern.
- Mechanics—Differences in mechanics between the changeup and other pitches should be few and never visible to the batter. The pitcher locks or stiffens her wrist at the release point by spreading her fingers as wide as possible and pushing the ball with her palm. She does not use the fingers to push the ball because this would result in speed. Normal hand speed must be maintained into the release point. If the hand slows, the pitcher will tip the pitch and lose needed distance. The release is in front of the back hip. The pitcher must focus on staying under the ball and reaching out to hand the ball to the catcher (see figure 11.19). For some pitchers, stopping the wrist at the side by bumping the hip is effective.
- Follow-through—The pitcher should keep the follow-through low so that the pitch stays down in the strike zone. She turns her hand down at release as if shaking the catcher's hand. She may want to experiment with bumping the hip to stop the arm and limit the follow-through, or she may even try pulling back after releasing the ball.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Cone Rolls Drill
View a drill from Softball Skills and Drills.
Purpose: To increase range while staying behind the ball.
Procedure: Place two cones about 12 feet apart to serve as targets and boundaries. A tosser with a ball stands about 15 feet in front of each cone. A fielder takes a position midway between the cones and several steps in front of them so that the cones will not interfere with her movement. The first tosser rolls a ball toward a cone. The fielder sidesteps to the ball, gathers it in, returns it underhand to the tosser, resets in the middle, and then goes the other way to field a ball rolled by the second tosser. The fielder must concentrate on footwork and staying square behind the ball.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Running slap gives left-handed batters an advantage
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap.
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap. The lefty is already several steps closer to first. Adding a running start puts tremendous pressure on the defense to make the play quickly. The play often moves the defense out of position as well. To be successful, the batter should have good speed and the ability to put the ball in play.
The batter stands in her standard hitting position so that she does not tip off the defense. The slapper must be in a position where the crossover step will put her on the lines of the front inside corner of the box. To execute the slap, the hitter runs first and hits second. She starts to move when the ball leaves the pitcher's hand. She must not anticipate the release. If she starts too soon, she will have to stop moving to slap the ball or will be way out of the box. The first step is a small jab step with the right foot, either forward or backward. The jab step acts as a timing mechanism. The left foot crosses aggressively over the right foot directly toward the pitcher (see figure 2.6a). The left foot should land on the front line of the box on the inside corner. The right foot then opens slightly toward the pitcher. If the jab step is not used, the first step must include a pivot that opens the hips to the pitcher. The hips are square, but the front shoulder stays closed to permit total plate coverage.
The hands are held close to the body and high in the strike zone on the swing. The front side and front shoulder remain closed. The batter can use a choke grip for good bat control. The bat head is above the hands, which come forward with the crossover step. Both the bat head and the hands are above the ball, and the batter should try to hit the top half of the ball. The batter must be careful not to drop her hands at the start of the swing. She hits the ball as the left foot lands on the front line. The swing is an inside-outside swing. The knob is first, the head of the bat stays back, and the swing is down. The knob and hands stay inside the path of the ball. The hands are out in front. To hit to the left side, the batter should be late with the head of the bat. The batter contacts the ball behind her body and hits down to the ground to put the ball in play.
On the slap follow-through, the batter rolls through the box, being in motion as she hits the ball (see figure 2.6b). She does not need to be moving fast; the important thing is that she is in motion. The slapper continues running toward the pitcher after contact, being careful not to turn early to run to first. On the follow-through, the bat is an extension of the right arm. The batter follows through with the bat in the right hand.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills, Second Edition.
Proper footwork key to catching fly balls
Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball.
Proper footwork and body positioning are the foundation for catching fly balls successfully. Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball. The coach should throw balls to fielders instead of hitting them. This enables the coach to place the balls exactly where they need to be in order to isolate each technique. Players must also practice reacting to balls hit off the bat, but in these drills, hitting rather than throwing the ball takes a lot of time and creates difficulty placing the ball in the desired location.
Drop-Step Reaction
Purpose: To learn to react and drop step to the appropriate side.
Procedure: The coach faces the players, who are in a staggered position in three or four lines. The coach points in a direction with a ball. Players react with a drop step in that direction. They then assume the ready position (exactly where they are) and repeat. When the drop step becomes automatic, players add the turn with inside and outside rolls.
Zigzag
Purpose: To execute proper footwork on the inside roll, good balance, and quick feet for fielding. This is a good warm-up drill.
Procedure: Players stand side by side in a line about 10 feet (3 m) apart from one another and face the coach. The coach points in either direction to begin the drill. Players run diagonally back using a drop step, run three steps, and then use an inside roll to change direction. They run three steps and again reverse direction. They continue zigzagging down the field.
Ball Toss for Inside and Outside Rolls
Purpose: To practice proper footwork for catching fly balls.
Procedure: Each player has a ball and lines up behind the coach or a tosser. The first fielder takes a position facing the tosser about 20 feet (6 m) away. All the players in the line complete each step before they move to the next:
1. The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement and then tosses a ball to that side for the fielder to catch. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
2. Inside roll: The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement, then tosses the ball to the opposite side, forcing the fielder to use an inside roll to catch the ball. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
3. Outside roll: The fielder executes the previous step but with an outside roll, then goes to the end of the line.
4. Ball overhead: The fielder runs directly away from the tosser and turns her head to find and catch the ball; then she goes to the end of the line.
Football
Purpose: To work on catching fly balls with good balance, glove work, and footwork.
Procedure: Each player has a softball. The player gives the ball to the coach and then starts running straight ahead with her back to the coach. The coach calls right or left and throws the ball in that direction. The fielder catches the ball and sprints to the end of the line behind the coach. A throw of 30 to 60 feet (6 to 18 m) is sufficient and allows for more practice than a very long throw.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Mastering the stiff-wrist changeup
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher.
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher. A problem with the stiff-wrist release is a tendency to stop the hand completely with no follow-through or to slow the arm way down at the back of the motion and give the pitch away. Also, it can be difficult to avoid snapping the wrist because doing so is so important for all other pitches. This technique is just the opposite of what the pitcher has worked so hard to develop. Now she palms the ball, locks the wrist, and pushes the ball.
- Grip—The more skin on the ball, the slower the speed. Putting the ball deep in the hand against the palm locks or stiffens the wrist, greatly reducing the speed. Palming the ball with the fingers going with the seams causes any rotation to be a two-seam rotation. When gripping across the seams, pitchers tend to snap the ball and pull on the seams, thus increasing the speed. Going with the seams helps break this habit. Placing the thumb on a seam helps with control.
The pitcher can try using one, two, or four knuckles on the ball; or she can use the fingertips on the ball. When using the fingertips on the ball, the fingers should be bent, and the nails should be digging into the seams or just in front of the seams (see figure 11.18a). If the knuckle grip is being used, the pitcher should grip the ball firmly with the thumb and little finger while placing the first bend (flat fingernail portion) against the ball's surface (see figure 11.18b). The grip must be secure enough that the pitcher can use her regular fastball motion without fear of losing her grip on the ball. The size of a pitcher's hands will eliminate the use of some grips. One problem with the knuckleball is that it is very easy for the hitters and opposing coaches to pick up because the pitcher cannot easily hide the knuckles coming off the ball. For this reason, the knuckleball is less popular at higher levels of play.
- Spin—The ball may or may not spin. The lack of speed, not ball movement, is what makes the pitch effective, so spin is not a concern.
- Mechanics—Differences in mechanics between the changeup and other pitches should be few and never visible to the batter. The pitcher locks or stiffens her wrist at the release point by spreading her fingers as wide as possible and pushing the ball with her palm. She does not use the fingers to push the ball because this would result in speed. Normal hand speed must be maintained into the release point. If the hand slows, the pitcher will tip the pitch and lose needed distance. The release is in front of the back hip. The pitcher must focus on staying under the ball and reaching out to hand the ball to the catcher (see figure 11.19). For some pitchers, stopping the wrist at the side by bumping the hip is effective.
- Follow-through—The pitcher should keep the follow-through low so that the pitch stays down in the strike zone. She turns her hand down at release as if shaking the catcher's hand. She may want to experiment with bumping the hip to stop the arm and limit the follow-through, or she may even try pulling back after releasing the ball.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Cone Rolls Drill
View a drill from Softball Skills and Drills.
Purpose: To increase range while staying behind the ball.
Procedure: Place two cones about 12 feet apart to serve as targets and boundaries. A tosser with a ball stands about 15 feet in front of each cone. A fielder takes a position midway between the cones and several steps in front of them so that the cones will not interfere with her movement. The first tosser rolls a ball toward a cone. The fielder sidesteps to the ball, gathers it in, returns it underhand to the tosser, resets in the middle, and then goes the other way to field a ball rolled by the second tosser. The fielder must concentrate on footwork and staying square behind the ball.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Running slap gives left-handed batters an advantage
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap.
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap. The lefty is already several steps closer to first. Adding a running start puts tremendous pressure on the defense to make the play quickly. The play often moves the defense out of position as well. To be successful, the batter should have good speed and the ability to put the ball in play.
The batter stands in her standard hitting position so that she does not tip off the defense. The slapper must be in a position where the crossover step will put her on the lines of the front inside corner of the box. To execute the slap, the hitter runs first and hits second. She starts to move when the ball leaves the pitcher's hand. She must not anticipate the release. If she starts too soon, she will have to stop moving to slap the ball or will be way out of the box. The first step is a small jab step with the right foot, either forward or backward. The jab step acts as a timing mechanism. The left foot crosses aggressively over the right foot directly toward the pitcher (see figure 2.6a). The left foot should land on the front line of the box on the inside corner. The right foot then opens slightly toward the pitcher. If the jab step is not used, the first step must include a pivot that opens the hips to the pitcher. The hips are square, but the front shoulder stays closed to permit total plate coverage.
The hands are held close to the body and high in the strike zone on the swing. The front side and front shoulder remain closed. The batter can use a choke grip for good bat control. The bat head is above the hands, which come forward with the crossover step. Both the bat head and the hands are above the ball, and the batter should try to hit the top half of the ball. The batter must be careful not to drop her hands at the start of the swing. She hits the ball as the left foot lands on the front line. The swing is an inside-outside swing. The knob is first, the head of the bat stays back, and the swing is down. The knob and hands stay inside the path of the ball. The hands are out in front. To hit to the left side, the batter should be late with the head of the bat. The batter contacts the ball behind her body and hits down to the ground to put the ball in play.
On the slap follow-through, the batter rolls through the box, being in motion as she hits the ball (see figure 2.6b). She does not need to be moving fast; the important thing is that she is in motion. The slapper continues running toward the pitcher after contact, being careful not to turn early to run to first. On the follow-through, the bat is an extension of the right arm. The batter follows through with the bat in the right hand.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills, Second Edition.
Proper footwork key to catching fly balls
Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball.
Proper footwork and body positioning are the foundation for catching fly balls successfully. Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball. The coach should throw balls to fielders instead of hitting them. This enables the coach to place the balls exactly where they need to be in order to isolate each technique. Players must also practice reacting to balls hit off the bat, but in these drills, hitting rather than throwing the ball takes a lot of time and creates difficulty placing the ball in the desired location.
Drop-Step Reaction
Purpose: To learn to react and drop step to the appropriate side.
Procedure: The coach faces the players, who are in a staggered position in three or four lines. The coach points in a direction with a ball. Players react with a drop step in that direction. They then assume the ready position (exactly where they are) and repeat. When the drop step becomes automatic, players add the turn with inside and outside rolls.
Zigzag
Purpose: To execute proper footwork on the inside roll, good balance, and quick feet for fielding. This is a good warm-up drill.
Procedure: Players stand side by side in a line about 10 feet (3 m) apart from one another and face the coach. The coach points in either direction to begin the drill. Players run diagonally back using a drop step, run three steps, and then use an inside roll to change direction. They run three steps and again reverse direction. They continue zigzagging down the field.
Ball Toss for Inside and Outside Rolls
Purpose: To practice proper footwork for catching fly balls.
Procedure: Each player has a ball and lines up behind the coach or a tosser. The first fielder takes a position facing the tosser about 20 feet (6 m) away. All the players in the line complete each step before they move to the next:
1. The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement and then tosses a ball to that side for the fielder to catch. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
2. Inside roll: The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement, then tosses the ball to the opposite side, forcing the fielder to use an inside roll to catch the ball. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
3. Outside roll: The fielder executes the previous step but with an outside roll, then goes to the end of the line.
4. Ball overhead: The fielder runs directly away from the tosser and turns her head to find and catch the ball; then she goes to the end of the line.
Football
Purpose: To work on catching fly balls with good balance, glove work, and footwork.
Procedure: Each player has a softball. The player gives the ball to the coach and then starts running straight ahead with her back to the coach. The coach calls right or left and throws the ball in that direction. The fielder catches the ball and sprints to the end of the line behind the coach. A throw of 30 to 60 feet (6 to 18 m) is sufficient and allows for more practice than a very long throw.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Mastering the stiff-wrist changeup
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher.
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher. A problem with the stiff-wrist release is a tendency to stop the hand completely with no follow-through or to slow the arm way down at the back of the motion and give the pitch away. Also, it can be difficult to avoid snapping the wrist because doing so is so important for all other pitches. This technique is just the opposite of what the pitcher has worked so hard to develop. Now she palms the ball, locks the wrist, and pushes the ball.
- Grip—The more skin on the ball, the slower the speed. Putting the ball deep in the hand against the palm locks or stiffens the wrist, greatly reducing the speed. Palming the ball with the fingers going with the seams causes any rotation to be a two-seam rotation. When gripping across the seams, pitchers tend to snap the ball and pull on the seams, thus increasing the speed. Going with the seams helps break this habit. Placing the thumb on a seam helps with control.
The pitcher can try using one, two, or four knuckles on the ball; or she can use the fingertips on the ball. When using the fingertips on the ball, the fingers should be bent, and the nails should be digging into the seams or just in front of the seams (see figure 11.18a). If the knuckle grip is being used, the pitcher should grip the ball firmly with the thumb and little finger while placing the first bend (flat fingernail portion) against the ball's surface (see figure 11.18b). The grip must be secure enough that the pitcher can use her regular fastball motion without fear of losing her grip on the ball. The size of a pitcher's hands will eliminate the use of some grips. One problem with the knuckleball is that it is very easy for the hitters and opposing coaches to pick up because the pitcher cannot easily hide the knuckles coming off the ball. For this reason, the knuckleball is less popular at higher levels of play.
- Spin—The ball may or may not spin. The lack of speed, not ball movement, is what makes the pitch effective, so spin is not a concern.
- Mechanics—Differences in mechanics between the changeup and other pitches should be few and never visible to the batter. The pitcher locks or stiffens her wrist at the release point by spreading her fingers as wide as possible and pushing the ball with her palm. She does not use the fingers to push the ball because this would result in speed. Normal hand speed must be maintained into the release point. If the hand slows, the pitcher will tip the pitch and lose needed distance. The release is in front of the back hip. The pitcher must focus on staying under the ball and reaching out to hand the ball to the catcher (see figure 11.19). For some pitchers, stopping the wrist at the side by bumping the hip is effective.
- Follow-through—The pitcher should keep the follow-through low so that the pitch stays down in the strike zone. She turns her hand down at release as if shaking the catcher's hand. She may want to experiment with bumping the hip to stop the arm and limit the follow-through, or she may even try pulling back after releasing the ball.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Cone Rolls Drill
View a drill from Softball Skills and Drills.
Purpose: To increase range while staying behind the ball.
Procedure: Place two cones about 12 feet apart to serve as targets and boundaries. A tosser with a ball stands about 15 feet in front of each cone. A fielder takes a position midway between the cones and several steps in front of them so that the cones will not interfere with her movement. The first tosser rolls a ball toward a cone. The fielder sidesteps to the ball, gathers it in, returns it underhand to the tosser, resets in the middle, and then goes the other way to field a ball rolled by the second tosser. The fielder must concentrate on footwork and staying square behind the ball.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Running slap gives left-handed batters an advantage
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap.
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap. The lefty is already several steps closer to first. Adding a running start puts tremendous pressure on the defense to make the play quickly. The play often moves the defense out of position as well. To be successful, the batter should have good speed and the ability to put the ball in play.
The batter stands in her standard hitting position so that she does not tip off the defense. The slapper must be in a position where the crossover step will put her on the lines of the front inside corner of the box. To execute the slap, the hitter runs first and hits second. She starts to move when the ball leaves the pitcher's hand. She must not anticipate the release. If she starts too soon, she will have to stop moving to slap the ball or will be way out of the box. The first step is a small jab step with the right foot, either forward or backward. The jab step acts as a timing mechanism. The left foot crosses aggressively over the right foot directly toward the pitcher (see figure 2.6a). The left foot should land on the front line of the box on the inside corner. The right foot then opens slightly toward the pitcher. If the jab step is not used, the first step must include a pivot that opens the hips to the pitcher. The hips are square, but the front shoulder stays closed to permit total plate coverage.
The hands are held close to the body and high in the strike zone on the swing. The front side and front shoulder remain closed. The batter can use a choke grip for good bat control. The bat head is above the hands, which come forward with the crossover step. Both the bat head and the hands are above the ball, and the batter should try to hit the top half of the ball. The batter must be careful not to drop her hands at the start of the swing. She hits the ball as the left foot lands on the front line. The swing is an inside-outside swing. The knob is first, the head of the bat stays back, and the swing is down. The knob and hands stay inside the path of the ball. The hands are out in front. To hit to the left side, the batter should be late with the head of the bat. The batter contacts the ball behind her body and hits down to the ground to put the ball in play.
On the slap follow-through, the batter rolls through the box, being in motion as she hits the ball (see figure 2.6b). She does not need to be moving fast; the important thing is that she is in motion. The slapper continues running toward the pitcher after contact, being careful not to turn early to run to first. On the follow-through, the bat is an extension of the right arm. The batter follows through with the bat in the right hand.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills, Second Edition.
Proper footwork key to catching fly balls
Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball.
Proper footwork and body positioning are the foundation for catching fly balls successfully. Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball. The coach should throw balls to fielders instead of hitting them. This enables the coach to place the balls exactly where they need to be in order to isolate each technique. Players must also practice reacting to balls hit off the bat, but in these drills, hitting rather than throwing the ball takes a lot of time and creates difficulty placing the ball in the desired location.
Drop-Step Reaction
Purpose: To learn to react and drop step to the appropriate side.
Procedure: The coach faces the players, who are in a staggered position in three or four lines. The coach points in a direction with a ball. Players react with a drop step in that direction. They then assume the ready position (exactly where they are) and repeat. When the drop step becomes automatic, players add the turn with inside and outside rolls.
Zigzag
Purpose: To execute proper footwork on the inside roll, good balance, and quick feet for fielding. This is a good warm-up drill.
Procedure: Players stand side by side in a line about 10 feet (3 m) apart from one another and face the coach. The coach points in either direction to begin the drill. Players run diagonally back using a drop step, run three steps, and then use an inside roll to change direction. They run three steps and again reverse direction. They continue zigzagging down the field.
Ball Toss for Inside and Outside Rolls
Purpose: To practice proper footwork for catching fly balls.
Procedure: Each player has a ball and lines up behind the coach or a tosser. The first fielder takes a position facing the tosser about 20 feet (6 m) away. All the players in the line complete each step before they move to the next:
1. The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement and then tosses a ball to that side for the fielder to catch. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
2. Inside roll: The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement, then tosses the ball to the opposite side, forcing the fielder to use an inside roll to catch the ball. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
3. Outside roll: The fielder executes the previous step but with an outside roll, then goes to the end of the line.
4. Ball overhead: The fielder runs directly away from the tosser and turns her head to find and catch the ball; then she goes to the end of the line.
Football
Purpose: To work on catching fly balls with good balance, glove work, and footwork.
Procedure: Each player has a softball. The player gives the ball to the coach and then starts running straight ahead with her back to the coach. The coach calls right or left and throws the ball in that direction. The fielder catches the ball and sprints to the end of the line behind the coach. A throw of 30 to 60 feet (6 to 18 m) is sufficient and allows for more practice than a very long throw.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Mastering the stiff-wrist changeup
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher.
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher. A problem with the stiff-wrist release is a tendency to stop the hand completely with no follow-through or to slow the arm way down at the back of the motion and give the pitch away. Also, it can be difficult to avoid snapping the wrist because doing so is so important for all other pitches. This technique is just the opposite of what the pitcher has worked so hard to develop. Now she palms the ball, locks the wrist, and pushes the ball.
- Grip—The more skin on the ball, the slower the speed. Putting the ball deep in the hand against the palm locks or stiffens the wrist, greatly reducing the speed. Palming the ball with the fingers going with the seams causes any rotation to be a two-seam rotation. When gripping across the seams, pitchers tend to snap the ball and pull on the seams, thus increasing the speed. Going with the seams helps break this habit. Placing the thumb on a seam helps with control.
The pitcher can try using one, two, or four knuckles on the ball; or she can use the fingertips on the ball. When using the fingertips on the ball, the fingers should be bent, and the nails should be digging into the seams or just in front of the seams (see figure 11.18a). If the knuckle grip is being used, the pitcher should grip the ball firmly with the thumb and little finger while placing the first bend (flat fingernail portion) against the ball's surface (see figure 11.18b). The grip must be secure enough that the pitcher can use her regular fastball motion without fear of losing her grip on the ball. The size of a pitcher's hands will eliminate the use of some grips. One problem with the knuckleball is that it is very easy for the hitters and opposing coaches to pick up because the pitcher cannot easily hide the knuckles coming off the ball. For this reason, the knuckleball is less popular at higher levels of play.
- Spin—The ball may or may not spin. The lack of speed, not ball movement, is what makes the pitch effective, so spin is not a concern.
- Mechanics—Differences in mechanics between the changeup and other pitches should be few and never visible to the batter. The pitcher locks or stiffens her wrist at the release point by spreading her fingers as wide as possible and pushing the ball with her palm. She does not use the fingers to push the ball because this would result in speed. Normal hand speed must be maintained into the release point. If the hand slows, the pitcher will tip the pitch and lose needed distance. The release is in front of the back hip. The pitcher must focus on staying under the ball and reaching out to hand the ball to the catcher (see figure 11.19). For some pitchers, stopping the wrist at the side by bumping the hip is effective.
- Follow-through—The pitcher should keep the follow-through low so that the pitch stays down in the strike zone. She turns her hand down at release as if shaking the catcher's hand. She may want to experiment with bumping the hip to stop the arm and limit the follow-through, or she may even try pulling back after releasing the ball.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Cone Rolls Drill
View a drill from Softball Skills and Drills.
Purpose: To increase range while staying behind the ball.
Procedure: Place two cones about 12 feet apart to serve as targets and boundaries. A tosser with a ball stands about 15 feet in front of each cone. A fielder takes a position midway between the cones and several steps in front of them so that the cones will not interfere with her movement. The first tosser rolls a ball toward a cone. The fielder sidesteps to the ball, gathers it in, returns it underhand to the tosser, resets in the middle, and then goes the other way to field a ball rolled by the second tosser. The fielder must concentrate on footwork and staying square behind the ball.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Running slap gives left-handed batters an advantage
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap.
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap. The lefty is already several steps closer to first. Adding a running start puts tremendous pressure on the defense to make the play quickly. The play often moves the defense out of position as well. To be successful, the batter should have good speed and the ability to put the ball in play.
The batter stands in her standard hitting position so that she does not tip off the defense. The slapper must be in a position where the crossover step will put her on the lines of the front inside corner of the box. To execute the slap, the hitter runs first and hits second. She starts to move when the ball leaves the pitcher's hand. She must not anticipate the release. If she starts too soon, she will have to stop moving to slap the ball or will be way out of the box. The first step is a small jab step with the right foot, either forward or backward. The jab step acts as a timing mechanism. The left foot crosses aggressively over the right foot directly toward the pitcher (see figure 2.6a). The left foot should land on the front line of the box on the inside corner. The right foot then opens slightly toward the pitcher. If the jab step is not used, the first step must include a pivot that opens the hips to the pitcher. The hips are square, but the front shoulder stays closed to permit total plate coverage.
The hands are held close to the body and high in the strike zone on the swing. The front side and front shoulder remain closed. The batter can use a choke grip for good bat control. The bat head is above the hands, which come forward with the crossover step. Both the bat head and the hands are above the ball, and the batter should try to hit the top half of the ball. The batter must be careful not to drop her hands at the start of the swing. She hits the ball as the left foot lands on the front line. The swing is an inside-outside swing. The knob is first, the head of the bat stays back, and the swing is down. The knob and hands stay inside the path of the ball. The hands are out in front. To hit to the left side, the batter should be late with the head of the bat. The batter contacts the ball behind her body and hits down to the ground to put the ball in play.
On the slap follow-through, the batter rolls through the box, being in motion as she hits the ball (see figure 2.6b). She does not need to be moving fast; the important thing is that she is in motion. The slapper continues running toward the pitcher after contact, being careful not to turn early to run to first. On the follow-through, the bat is an extension of the right arm. The batter follows through with the bat in the right hand.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills, Second Edition.
Proper footwork key to catching fly balls
Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball.
Proper footwork and body positioning are the foundation for catching fly balls successfully. Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball. The coach should throw balls to fielders instead of hitting them. This enables the coach to place the balls exactly where they need to be in order to isolate each technique. Players must also practice reacting to balls hit off the bat, but in these drills, hitting rather than throwing the ball takes a lot of time and creates difficulty placing the ball in the desired location.
Drop-Step Reaction
Purpose: To learn to react and drop step to the appropriate side.
Procedure: The coach faces the players, who are in a staggered position in three or four lines. The coach points in a direction with a ball. Players react with a drop step in that direction. They then assume the ready position (exactly where they are) and repeat. When the drop step becomes automatic, players add the turn with inside and outside rolls.
Zigzag
Purpose: To execute proper footwork on the inside roll, good balance, and quick feet for fielding. This is a good warm-up drill.
Procedure: Players stand side by side in a line about 10 feet (3 m) apart from one another and face the coach. The coach points in either direction to begin the drill. Players run diagonally back using a drop step, run three steps, and then use an inside roll to change direction. They run three steps and again reverse direction. They continue zigzagging down the field.
Ball Toss for Inside and Outside Rolls
Purpose: To practice proper footwork for catching fly balls.
Procedure: Each player has a ball and lines up behind the coach or a tosser. The first fielder takes a position facing the tosser about 20 feet (6 m) away. All the players in the line complete each step before they move to the next:
1. The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement and then tosses a ball to that side for the fielder to catch. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
2. Inside roll: The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement, then tosses the ball to the opposite side, forcing the fielder to use an inside roll to catch the ball. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
3. Outside roll: The fielder executes the previous step but with an outside roll, then goes to the end of the line.
4. Ball overhead: The fielder runs directly away from the tosser and turns her head to find and catch the ball; then she goes to the end of the line.
Football
Purpose: To work on catching fly balls with good balance, glove work, and footwork.
Procedure: Each player has a softball. The player gives the ball to the coach and then starts running straight ahead with her back to the coach. The coach calls right or left and throws the ball in that direction. The fielder catches the ball and sprints to the end of the line behind the coach. A throw of 30 to 60 feet (6 to 18 m) is sufficient and allows for more practice than a very long throw.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Mastering the stiff-wrist changeup
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher.
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher. A problem with the stiff-wrist release is a tendency to stop the hand completely with no follow-through or to slow the arm way down at the back of the motion and give the pitch away. Also, it can be difficult to avoid snapping the wrist because doing so is so important for all other pitches. This technique is just the opposite of what the pitcher has worked so hard to develop. Now she palms the ball, locks the wrist, and pushes the ball.
- Grip—The more skin on the ball, the slower the speed. Putting the ball deep in the hand against the palm locks or stiffens the wrist, greatly reducing the speed. Palming the ball with the fingers going with the seams causes any rotation to be a two-seam rotation. When gripping across the seams, pitchers tend to snap the ball and pull on the seams, thus increasing the speed. Going with the seams helps break this habit. Placing the thumb on a seam helps with control.
The pitcher can try using one, two, or four knuckles on the ball; or she can use the fingertips on the ball. When using the fingertips on the ball, the fingers should be bent, and the nails should be digging into the seams or just in front of the seams (see figure 11.18a). If the knuckle grip is being used, the pitcher should grip the ball firmly with the thumb and little finger while placing the first bend (flat fingernail portion) against the ball's surface (see figure 11.18b). The grip must be secure enough that the pitcher can use her regular fastball motion without fear of losing her grip on the ball. The size of a pitcher's hands will eliminate the use of some grips. One problem with the knuckleball is that it is very easy for the hitters and opposing coaches to pick up because the pitcher cannot easily hide the knuckles coming off the ball. For this reason, the knuckleball is less popular at higher levels of play.
- Spin—The ball may or may not spin. The lack of speed, not ball movement, is what makes the pitch effective, so spin is not a concern.
- Mechanics—Differences in mechanics between the changeup and other pitches should be few and never visible to the batter. The pitcher locks or stiffens her wrist at the release point by spreading her fingers as wide as possible and pushing the ball with her palm. She does not use the fingers to push the ball because this would result in speed. Normal hand speed must be maintained into the release point. If the hand slows, the pitcher will tip the pitch and lose needed distance. The release is in front of the back hip. The pitcher must focus on staying under the ball and reaching out to hand the ball to the catcher (see figure 11.19). For some pitchers, stopping the wrist at the side by bumping the hip is effective.
- Follow-through—The pitcher should keep the follow-through low so that the pitch stays down in the strike zone. She turns her hand down at release as if shaking the catcher's hand. She may want to experiment with bumping the hip to stop the arm and limit the follow-through, or she may even try pulling back after releasing the ball.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Cone Rolls Drill
View a drill from Softball Skills and Drills.
Purpose: To increase range while staying behind the ball.
Procedure: Place two cones about 12 feet apart to serve as targets and boundaries. A tosser with a ball stands about 15 feet in front of each cone. A fielder takes a position midway between the cones and several steps in front of them so that the cones will not interfere with her movement. The first tosser rolls a ball toward a cone. The fielder sidesteps to the ball, gathers it in, returns it underhand to the tosser, resets in the middle, and then goes the other way to field a ball rolled by the second tosser. The fielder must concentrate on footwork and staying square behind the ball.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Running slap gives left-handed batters an advantage
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap.
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap. The lefty is already several steps closer to first. Adding a running start puts tremendous pressure on the defense to make the play quickly. The play often moves the defense out of position as well. To be successful, the batter should have good speed and the ability to put the ball in play.
The batter stands in her standard hitting position so that she does not tip off the defense. The slapper must be in a position where the crossover step will put her on the lines of the front inside corner of the box. To execute the slap, the hitter runs first and hits second. She starts to move when the ball leaves the pitcher's hand. She must not anticipate the release. If she starts too soon, she will have to stop moving to slap the ball or will be way out of the box. The first step is a small jab step with the right foot, either forward or backward. The jab step acts as a timing mechanism. The left foot crosses aggressively over the right foot directly toward the pitcher (see figure 2.6a). The left foot should land on the front line of the box on the inside corner. The right foot then opens slightly toward the pitcher. If the jab step is not used, the first step must include a pivot that opens the hips to the pitcher. The hips are square, but the front shoulder stays closed to permit total plate coverage.
The hands are held close to the body and high in the strike zone on the swing. The front side and front shoulder remain closed. The batter can use a choke grip for good bat control. The bat head is above the hands, which come forward with the crossover step. Both the bat head and the hands are above the ball, and the batter should try to hit the top half of the ball. The batter must be careful not to drop her hands at the start of the swing. She hits the ball as the left foot lands on the front line. The swing is an inside-outside swing. The knob is first, the head of the bat stays back, and the swing is down. The knob and hands stay inside the path of the ball. The hands are out in front. To hit to the left side, the batter should be late with the head of the bat. The batter contacts the ball behind her body and hits down to the ground to put the ball in play.
On the slap follow-through, the batter rolls through the box, being in motion as she hits the ball (see figure 2.6b). She does not need to be moving fast; the important thing is that she is in motion. The slapper continues running toward the pitcher after contact, being careful not to turn early to run to first. On the follow-through, the bat is an extension of the right arm. The batter follows through with the bat in the right hand.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills, Second Edition.
Proper footwork key to catching fly balls
Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball.
Proper footwork and body positioning are the foundation for catching fly balls successfully. Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball. The coach should throw balls to fielders instead of hitting them. This enables the coach to place the balls exactly where they need to be in order to isolate each technique. Players must also practice reacting to balls hit off the bat, but in these drills, hitting rather than throwing the ball takes a lot of time and creates difficulty placing the ball in the desired location.
Drop-Step Reaction
Purpose: To learn to react and drop step to the appropriate side.
Procedure: The coach faces the players, who are in a staggered position in three or four lines. The coach points in a direction with a ball. Players react with a drop step in that direction. They then assume the ready position (exactly where they are) and repeat. When the drop step becomes automatic, players add the turn with inside and outside rolls.
Zigzag
Purpose: To execute proper footwork on the inside roll, good balance, and quick feet for fielding. This is a good warm-up drill.
Procedure: Players stand side by side in a line about 10 feet (3 m) apart from one another and face the coach. The coach points in either direction to begin the drill. Players run diagonally back using a drop step, run three steps, and then use an inside roll to change direction. They run three steps and again reverse direction. They continue zigzagging down the field.
Ball Toss for Inside and Outside Rolls
Purpose: To practice proper footwork for catching fly balls.
Procedure: Each player has a ball and lines up behind the coach or a tosser. The first fielder takes a position facing the tosser about 20 feet (6 m) away. All the players in the line complete each step before they move to the next:
1. The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement and then tosses a ball to that side for the fielder to catch. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
2. Inside roll: The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement, then tosses the ball to the opposite side, forcing the fielder to use an inside roll to catch the ball. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
3. Outside roll: The fielder executes the previous step but with an outside roll, then goes to the end of the line.
4. Ball overhead: The fielder runs directly away from the tosser and turns her head to find and catch the ball; then she goes to the end of the line.
Football
Purpose: To work on catching fly balls with good balance, glove work, and footwork.
Procedure: Each player has a softball. The player gives the ball to the coach and then starts running straight ahead with her back to the coach. The coach calls right or left and throws the ball in that direction. The fielder catches the ball and sprints to the end of the line behind the coach. A throw of 30 to 60 feet (6 to 18 m) is sufficient and allows for more practice than a very long throw.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Mastering the stiff-wrist changeup
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher.
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher. A problem with the stiff-wrist release is a tendency to stop the hand completely with no follow-through or to slow the arm way down at the back of the motion and give the pitch away. Also, it can be difficult to avoid snapping the wrist because doing so is so important for all other pitches. This technique is just the opposite of what the pitcher has worked so hard to develop. Now she palms the ball, locks the wrist, and pushes the ball.
- Grip—The more skin on the ball, the slower the speed. Putting the ball deep in the hand against the palm locks or stiffens the wrist, greatly reducing the speed. Palming the ball with the fingers going with the seams causes any rotation to be a two-seam rotation. When gripping across the seams, pitchers tend to snap the ball and pull on the seams, thus increasing the speed. Going with the seams helps break this habit. Placing the thumb on a seam helps with control.
The pitcher can try using one, two, or four knuckles on the ball; or she can use the fingertips on the ball. When using the fingertips on the ball, the fingers should be bent, and the nails should be digging into the seams or just in front of the seams (see figure 11.18a). If the knuckle grip is being used, the pitcher should grip the ball firmly with the thumb and little finger while placing the first bend (flat fingernail portion) against the ball's surface (see figure 11.18b). The grip must be secure enough that the pitcher can use her regular fastball motion without fear of losing her grip on the ball. The size of a pitcher's hands will eliminate the use of some grips. One problem with the knuckleball is that it is very easy for the hitters and opposing coaches to pick up because the pitcher cannot easily hide the knuckles coming off the ball. For this reason, the knuckleball is less popular at higher levels of play.
- Spin—The ball may or may not spin. The lack of speed, not ball movement, is what makes the pitch effective, so spin is not a concern.
- Mechanics—Differences in mechanics between the changeup and other pitches should be few and never visible to the batter. The pitcher locks or stiffens her wrist at the release point by spreading her fingers as wide as possible and pushing the ball with her palm. She does not use the fingers to push the ball because this would result in speed. Normal hand speed must be maintained into the release point. If the hand slows, the pitcher will tip the pitch and lose needed distance. The release is in front of the back hip. The pitcher must focus on staying under the ball and reaching out to hand the ball to the catcher (see figure 11.19). For some pitchers, stopping the wrist at the side by bumping the hip is effective.
- Follow-through—The pitcher should keep the follow-through low so that the pitch stays down in the strike zone. She turns her hand down at release as if shaking the catcher's hand. She may want to experiment with bumping the hip to stop the arm and limit the follow-through, or she may even try pulling back after releasing the ball.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Cone Rolls Drill
View a drill from Softball Skills and Drills.
Purpose: To increase range while staying behind the ball.
Procedure: Place two cones about 12 feet apart to serve as targets and boundaries. A tosser with a ball stands about 15 feet in front of each cone. A fielder takes a position midway between the cones and several steps in front of them so that the cones will not interfere with her movement. The first tosser rolls a ball toward a cone. The fielder sidesteps to the ball, gathers it in, returns it underhand to the tosser, resets in the middle, and then goes the other way to field a ball rolled by the second tosser. The fielder must concentrate on footwork and staying square behind the ball.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Running slap gives left-handed batters an advantage
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap.
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap. The lefty is already several steps closer to first. Adding a running start puts tremendous pressure on the defense to make the play quickly. The play often moves the defense out of position as well. To be successful, the batter should have good speed and the ability to put the ball in play.
The batter stands in her standard hitting position so that she does not tip off the defense. The slapper must be in a position where the crossover step will put her on the lines of the front inside corner of the box. To execute the slap, the hitter runs first and hits second. She starts to move when the ball leaves the pitcher's hand. She must not anticipate the release. If she starts too soon, she will have to stop moving to slap the ball or will be way out of the box. The first step is a small jab step with the right foot, either forward or backward. The jab step acts as a timing mechanism. The left foot crosses aggressively over the right foot directly toward the pitcher (see figure 2.6a). The left foot should land on the front line of the box on the inside corner. The right foot then opens slightly toward the pitcher. If the jab step is not used, the first step must include a pivot that opens the hips to the pitcher. The hips are square, but the front shoulder stays closed to permit total plate coverage.
The hands are held close to the body and high in the strike zone on the swing. The front side and front shoulder remain closed. The batter can use a choke grip for good bat control. The bat head is above the hands, which come forward with the crossover step. Both the bat head and the hands are above the ball, and the batter should try to hit the top half of the ball. The batter must be careful not to drop her hands at the start of the swing. She hits the ball as the left foot lands on the front line. The swing is an inside-outside swing. The knob is first, the head of the bat stays back, and the swing is down. The knob and hands stay inside the path of the ball. The hands are out in front. To hit to the left side, the batter should be late with the head of the bat. The batter contacts the ball behind her body and hits down to the ground to put the ball in play.
On the slap follow-through, the batter rolls through the box, being in motion as she hits the ball (see figure 2.6b). She does not need to be moving fast; the important thing is that she is in motion. The slapper continues running toward the pitcher after contact, being careful not to turn early to run to first. On the follow-through, the bat is an extension of the right arm. The batter follows through with the bat in the right hand.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills, Second Edition.
Proper footwork key to catching fly balls
Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball.
Proper footwork and body positioning are the foundation for catching fly balls successfully. Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball. The coach should throw balls to fielders instead of hitting them. This enables the coach to place the balls exactly where they need to be in order to isolate each technique. Players must also practice reacting to balls hit off the bat, but in these drills, hitting rather than throwing the ball takes a lot of time and creates difficulty placing the ball in the desired location.
Drop-Step Reaction
Purpose: To learn to react and drop step to the appropriate side.
Procedure: The coach faces the players, who are in a staggered position in three or four lines. The coach points in a direction with a ball. Players react with a drop step in that direction. They then assume the ready position (exactly where they are) and repeat. When the drop step becomes automatic, players add the turn with inside and outside rolls.
Zigzag
Purpose: To execute proper footwork on the inside roll, good balance, and quick feet for fielding. This is a good warm-up drill.
Procedure: Players stand side by side in a line about 10 feet (3 m) apart from one another and face the coach. The coach points in either direction to begin the drill. Players run diagonally back using a drop step, run three steps, and then use an inside roll to change direction. They run three steps and again reverse direction. They continue zigzagging down the field.
Ball Toss for Inside and Outside Rolls
Purpose: To practice proper footwork for catching fly balls.
Procedure: Each player has a ball and lines up behind the coach or a tosser. The first fielder takes a position facing the tosser about 20 feet (6 m) away. All the players in the line complete each step before they move to the next:
1. The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement and then tosses a ball to that side for the fielder to catch. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
2. Inside roll: The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement, then tosses the ball to the opposite side, forcing the fielder to use an inside roll to catch the ball. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
3. Outside roll: The fielder executes the previous step but with an outside roll, then goes to the end of the line.
4. Ball overhead: The fielder runs directly away from the tosser and turns her head to find and catch the ball; then she goes to the end of the line.
Football
Purpose: To work on catching fly balls with good balance, glove work, and footwork.
Procedure: Each player has a softball. The player gives the ball to the coach and then starts running straight ahead with her back to the coach. The coach calls right or left and throws the ball in that direction. The fielder catches the ball and sprints to the end of the line behind the coach. A throw of 30 to 60 feet (6 to 18 m) is sufficient and allows for more practice than a very long throw.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Mastering the stiff-wrist changeup
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher.
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher. A problem with the stiff-wrist release is a tendency to stop the hand completely with no follow-through or to slow the arm way down at the back of the motion and give the pitch away. Also, it can be difficult to avoid snapping the wrist because doing so is so important for all other pitches. This technique is just the opposite of what the pitcher has worked so hard to develop. Now she palms the ball, locks the wrist, and pushes the ball.
- Grip—The more skin on the ball, the slower the speed. Putting the ball deep in the hand against the palm locks or stiffens the wrist, greatly reducing the speed. Palming the ball with the fingers going with the seams causes any rotation to be a two-seam rotation. When gripping across the seams, pitchers tend to snap the ball and pull on the seams, thus increasing the speed. Going with the seams helps break this habit. Placing the thumb on a seam helps with control.
The pitcher can try using one, two, or four knuckles on the ball; or she can use the fingertips on the ball. When using the fingertips on the ball, the fingers should be bent, and the nails should be digging into the seams or just in front of the seams (see figure 11.18a). If the knuckle grip is being used, the pitcher should grip the ball firmly with the thumb and little finger while placing the first bend (flat fingernail portion) against the ball's surface (see figure 11.18b). The grip must be secure enough that the pitcher can use her regular fastball motion without fear of losing her grip on the ball. The size of a pitcher's hands will eliminate the use of some grips. One problem with the knuckleball is that it is very easy for the hitters and opposing coaches to pick up because the pitcher cannot easily hide the knuckles coming off the ball. For this reason, the knuckleball is less popular at higher levels of play.
- Spin—The ball may or may not spin. The lack of speed, not ball movement, is what makes the pitch effective, so spin is not a concern.
- Mechanics—Differences in mechanics between the changeup and other pitches should be few and never visible to the batter. The pitcher locks or stiffens her wrist at the release point by spreading her fingers as wide as possible and pushing the ball with her palm. She does not use the fingers to push the ball because this would result in speed. Normal hand speed must be maintained into the release point. If the hand slows, the pitcher will tip the pitch and lose needed distance. The release is in front of the back hip. The pitcher must focus on staying under the ball and reaching out to hand the ball to the catcher (see figure 11.19). For some pitchers, stopping the wrist at the side by bumping the hip is effective.
- Follow-through—The pitcher should keep the follow-through low so that the pitch stays down in the strike zone. She turns her hand down at release as if shaking the catcher's hand. She may want to experiment with bumping the hip to stop the arm and limit the follow-through, or she may even try pulling back after releasing the ball.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Cone Rolls Drill
View a drill from Softball Skills and Drills.
Purpose: To increase range while staying behind the ball.
Procedure: Place two cones about 12 feet apart to serve as targets and boundaries. A tosser with a ball stands about 15 feet in front of each cone. A fielder takes a position midway between the cones and several steps in front of them so that the cones will not interfere with her movement. The first tosser rolls a ball toward a cone. The fielder sidesteps to the ball, gathers it in, returns it underhand to the tosser, resets in the middle, and then goes the other way to field a ball rolled by the second tosser. The fielder must concentrate on footwork and staying square behind the ball.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills.
Running slap gives left-handed batters an advantage
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap.
A left-handed batter can get a running start before hitting the ball by using the left-side running slap. The lefty is already several steps closer to first. Adding a running start puts tremendous pressure on the defense to make the play quickly. The play often moves the defense out of position as well. To be successful, the batter should have good speed and the ability to put the ball in play.
The batter stands in her standard hitting position so that she does not tip off the defense. The slapper must be in a position where the crossover step will put her on the lines of the front inside corner of the box. To execute the slap, the hitter runs first and hits second. She starts to move when the ball leaves the pitcher's hand. She must not anticipate the release. If she starts too soon, she will have to stop moving to slap the ball or will be way out of the box. The first step is a small jab step with the right foot, either forward or backward. The jab step acts as a timing mechanism. The left foot crosses aggressively over the right foot directly toward the pitcher (see figure 2.6a). The left foot should land on the front line of the box on the inside corner. The right foot then opens slightly toward the pitcher. If the jab step is not used, the first step must include a pivot that opens the hips to the pitcher. The hips are square, but the front shoulder stays closed to permit total plate coverage.
The hands are held close to the body and high in the strike zone on the swing. The front side and front shoulder remain closed. The batter can use a choke grip for good bat control. The bat head is above the hands, which come forward with the crossover step. Both the bat head and the hands are above the ball, and the batter should try to hit the top half of the ball. The batter must be careful not to drop her hands at the start of the swing. She hits the ball as the left foot lands on the front line. The swing is an inside-outside swing. The knob is first, the head of the bat stays back, and the swing is down. The knob and hands stay inside the path of the ball. The hands are out in front. To hit to the left side, the batter should be late with the head of the bat. The batter contacts the ball behind her body and hits down to the ground to put the ball in play.
On the slap follow-through, the batter rolls through the box, being in motion as she hits the ball (see figure 2.6b). She does not need to be moving fast; the important thing is that she is in motion. The slapper continues running toward the pitcher after contact, being careful not to turn early to run to first. On the follow-through, the bat is an extension of the right arm. The batter follows through with the bat in the right hand.
Learn more about Softball Skills & Drills, Second Edition.
Proper footwork key to catching fly balls
Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball.
Proper footwork and body positioning are the foundation for catching fly balls successfully. Coaches should use the following basic footwork drills every day to help players develop good balance and proper reaction to the ball. The coach should throw balls to fielders instead of hitting them. This enables the coach to place the balls exactly where they need to be in order to isolate each technique. Players must also practice reacting to balls hit off the bat, but in these drills, hitting rather than throwing the ball takes a lot of time and creates difficulty placing the ball in the desired location.
Drop-Step Reaction
Purpose: To learn to react and drop step to the appropriate side.
Procedure: The coach faces the players, who are in a staggered position in three or four lines. The coach points in a direction with a ball. Players react with a drop step in that direction. They then assume the ready position (exactly where they are) and repeat. When the drop step becomes automatic, players add the turn with inside and outside rolls.
Zigzag
Purpose: To execute proper footwork on the inside roll, good balance, and quick feet for fielding. This is a good warm-up drill.
Procedure: Players stand side by side in a line about 10 feet (3 m) apart from one another and face the coach. The coach points in either direction to begin the drill. Players run diagonally back using a drop step, run three steps, and then use an inside roll to change direction. They run three steps and again reverse direction. They continue zigzagging down the field.
Ball Toss for Inside and Outside Rolls
Purpose: To practice proper footwork for catching fly balls.
Procedure: Each player has a ball and lines up behind the coach or a tosser. The first fielder takes a position facing the tosser about 20 feet (6 m) away. All the players in the line complete each step before they move to the next:
1. The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement and then tosses a ball to that side for the fielder to catch. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
2. Inside roll: The tosser points in a direction for the initial drop step and diagonal movement, then tosses the ball to the opposite side, forcing the fielder to use an inside roll to catch the ball. The fielder catches the ball and goes to the end of the line.
3. Outside roll: The fielder executes the previous step but with an outside roll, then goes to the end of the line.
4. Ball overhead: The fielder runs directly away from the tosser and turns her head to find and catch the ball; then she goes to the end of the line.
Football
Purpose: To work on catching fly balls with good balance, glove work, and footwork.
Procedure: Each player has a softball. The player gives the ball to the coach and then starts running straight ahead with her back to the coach. The coach calls right or left and throws the ball in that direction. The fielder catches the ball and sprints to the end of the line behind the coach. A throw of 30 to 60 feet (6 to 18 m) is sufficient and allows for more practice than a very long throw.
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Mastering the stiff-wrist changeup
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher.
The easiest release to use for the changeup is usually the stiff wrist, but the choice should depend on which release is easier and more comfortable for the pitcher. A problem with the stiff-wrist release is a tendency to stop the hand completely with no follow-through or to slow the arm way down at the back of the motion and give the pitch away. Also, it can be difficult to avoid snapping the wrist because doing so is so important for all other pitches. This technique is just the opposite of what the pitcher has worked so hard to develop. Now she palms the ball, locks the wrist, and pushes the ball.
- Grip—The more skin on the ball, the slower the speed. Putting the ball deep in the hand against the palm locks or stiffens the wrist, greatly reducing the speed. Palming the ball with the fingers going with the seams causes any rotation to be a two-seam rotation. When gripping across the seams, pitchers tend to snap the ball and pull on the seams, thus increasing the speed. Going with the seams helps break this habit. Placing the thumb on a seam helps with control.
The pitcher can try using one, two, or four knuckles on the ball; or she can use the fingertips on the ball. When using the fingertips on the ball, the fingers should be bent, and the nails should be digging into the seams or just in front of the seams (see figure 11.18a). If the knuckle grip is being used, the pitcher should grip the ball firmly with the thumb and little finger while placing the first bend (flat fingernail portion) against the ball's surface (see figure 11.18b). The grip must be secure enough that the pitcher can use her regular fastball motion without fear of losing her grip on the ball. The size of a pitcher's hands will eliminate the use of some grips. One problem with the knuckleball is that it is very easy for the hitters and opposing coaches to pick up because the pitcher cannot easily hide the knuckles coming off the ball. For this reason, the knuckleball is less popular at higher levels of play.
- Spin—The ball may or may not spin. The lack of speed, not ball movement, is what makes the pitch effective, so spin is not a concern.
- Mechanics—Differences in mechanics between the changeup and other pitches should be few and never visible to the batter. The pitcher locks or stiffens her wrist at the release point by spreading her fingers as wide as possible and pushing the ball with her palm. She does not use the fingers to push the ball because this would result in speed. Normal hand speed must be maintained into the release point. If the hand slows, the pitcher will tip the pitch and lose needed distance. The release is in front of the back hip. The pitcher must focus on staying under the ball and reaching out to hand the ball to the catcher (see figure 11.19). For some pitchers, stopping the wrist at the side by bumping the hip is effective.
- Follow-through—The pitcher should keep the follow-through low so that the pitch stays down in the strike zone. She turns her hand down at release as if shaking the catcher's hand. She may want to experiment with bumping the hip to stop the arm and limit the follow-through, or she may even try pulling back after releasing the ball.
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