So you want to be a Pitcher?

You are the Pitcher.

This is one of the most crucial positions in defense, as well as the most physically taxing. These positions take years of practice and dedication. If you choose this position, you are likely going to dedicate your softball career to pitching.

The pitcher is a leader on the field and plays a significant role in team dynamics. Your mentality on the field has immense effect on the game.

There will be many moments when you, the pitcher, will be in high pressure situations. Runners on base and the deafening cheers from the opposing team in your ears. It is your job internally to maintain composure , confidence , and focus on the batter.

As a pitcher, you are a strategist . Working with your coach and catcher to execute your pitches in the correct locations. You need to have a variety of pitches such as fastballs, change-ups, rise balls, drop balls (curveballs and screwballs are used less). Mastering different pitch types with good control is crucial.

In a regular fastpitch softball, the distance between the pitcher's rubber plate and home plate is about 13 meters in fastpitch softball. This gives the batter a fraction of a second to decide to swing and read the location of the ball.

After the pitch, the pitcher must immediately prepare for the hit, bunt, or even the missed ball by the catcher. Transitioning into a defensive position in case of a direct hit return or a runner stealing home.

Important Things to Remember:

• The batter is just as nervous as you are
• You have 7 girls defending behind you, don't be afraid to throw a good strike
• Master location control with your fastball first (change-ups and rise balls come next)
• Your shoulder is gold, don't waste it or pitch unprepared
• Always wear a fielding mask in a game

Training:

As a pitcher, not only will you spend many hours on the field, you will also need to dedicate many hours to specialized training to perfect your unique windmill throw. Your presentation of the ball, the leg step and drive (banana line), the release point of the softball and your follow-through. 
Every pitcher throws different but must follow the guidelines of a legal pitch.

Pitcher's guideline (Following the International Softball Federation)

• Pitcher's Plate and Position: The pitcher must start with both feet in contact with the pitcher's plate. The pitcher's pivot foot must remain in contact with or directly above the pitcher's plate during the entire pitching motion. The pitcher cannot spin its body in any way during the motion.
• Windmill Delivery: The majority of pitchers use a windmill circular arm movement. Fastpitch softball allows either a windmill or underhand pitching delivery.
• One Continuous Motion: The pitching motion must be one continuous, fluid movement without any interruption or hesitation. The pitcher cannot stop or reverse the arm motion during delivery.
• Release Point: The ball must be released from the pitcher's hand below the hip level. The release point should occur in the forward direction, not to the side.
• Speed ​​and Arc: There are no specific speed or arc requirements for a legal pitch, but the pitch must be delivered in a quick motion without excessive arc (different than slow-pitch softball).
• Pitcher's Position After Release: After releasing the ball, the pitcher must remain within the pitcher's circle until the ball is hit or reaches the batter.
• No Crow-Hopping: The pitcher cannot take a step forward or sideways, commonly known as crowd-hopping, before releasing the ball. The pitcher must maintain contact with the pitcher's plate until the ball is released.
• Batter's Box and Striking Zone: The pitch must be delivered within the batter's box and pass through the striking zone; The zone is above home plate from the batter's armpits to knees.

Umpires may call an illegal pitch if any of the rules are violated resulting in one ball added to the batting count.

Being a pitcher has its perks! Pitchers often receive the most attention from universities, professional team scouts, television and newspaper articles. The most famous and notable softball players are usually pitchers and can receive higher scholarships and salaries.

Do you have what it takes?