12 best softball pitching
Softball pitching is a crucial aspect of the sport, and it involves the act of delivering the softball to the batter with the goal of striking them out, inducing a hit, or preventing them from making solid contact. Here are some key points related to softball pitching:
Pitching Styles: In softball, there are several pitching styles, including fastpitch, slowpitch, and modified pitch. Fastpitch softball is the most common style played at the competitive level, characterized by high-speed underhand pitches. Slowpitch and modified pitch are typically played at recreational levels with a focus on controlled, slower deliveries.
Pitching Equipment: Softball pitchers use specific equipment, including a softball, a pitching rubber or plate, and a catcher's mitt. The softball used in fastpitch softball is larger than a baseball but smaller than a slowpitch softball, and it can vary in hardness.
Windmill Pitching: Windmill pitching is the standard technique in fastpitch softball. Pitchers use a circular arm motion to generate speed and movement on the ball. This style allows for a wide range of pitch types, including fastballs, change-ups, curveballs, and more.
Release Points: Pitchers have different release points for various pitches. For example, a riseball is released with the hand on the top of the ball to create upward movement, while a dropball is released with the hand underneath the ball to make it drop.
Pitching Mechanics: Proper pitching mechanics are essential to maximize speed, control, and accuracy while minimizing the risk of injury. This includes footwork, arm movement, hip rotation, and follow-through.
Pitching Grips: Pitchers use various grips to control the ball's movement. Common grips include the four-seam fastball grip, the change-up grip, the curveball grip, and the dropball grip. Mastering these grips is crucial for deception and effectiveness.
Pitching Training: Pitchers undergo extensive training to improve their skills. This includes regular practice sessions, conditioning exercises, and drills to work on mechanics and pitch control. Many pitchers also work with specialized coaches to refine their technique.
Strategies: Pitchers need to be strategic and have good communication with their catchers. They aim to keep batters off balance by varying pitch type, speed, and location. Pitchers often work in tandem with catchers to call pitches and execute game plans.
Pitching Rules: Softball organizations have rules and regulations governing pitching, including limits on pitch counts, illegal pitches, and restrictions on quick pitches. It's important for pitchers to understand and adhere to these rules.
Mental Toughness: Softball pitching requires mental toughness. Pitchers must maintain focus and composure, especially in high-pressure situations. Confidence, resilience, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are essential qualities for successful pitchers.
In summary, softball pitching is a complex and vital aspect of the sport, requiring skill, technique, and mental strength.Pitchers must continuously work on their mechanics, grips, and strategies to become effective contributors to their teams. Whether playing for fun or competitively, softball pitchers play a pivotal role in the game's outcome.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best softball pitching on the marketProduct description
100% 46 oz. Nylon Material With 5mm Foam With Non Slip Super Grip That Is Spike Proof. Portable pitching mat comes with a permanent 4" tufted in white turf line to indicate proper foot placement and balance. Regulation size pitching rubber. 5mm foam backing won't mar or harm gym floors. Excellent for teaching the correct move to home plate. Mat measures 3 Feet Wide x 10 Feet Long.
- Regulation size pitching rubber
- Size: 3ft x 10ft
- Made From 100% 46 oz Nylon Material With 5mm Foam That Is Spike Proof
- Non Slip Super Grip Rubber Backing. Use Indoors or Outdoors
- Mat Color Is Verde Green. Made In The USA
User questions & answers
Question: | I want to fix this in place on my school's turf field. Are there any issues with it being left outdoors for a whole season on turf |
Answer: | We don’t even use it anymore. I consider it a waste of money. |
Question: | How is the pitching rubber attached? Will it come off easily |
Answer: | Currently SwingTracker can only be used in conjunction with iOS devices. While DK developers are hard at work on an Android version of SwingTracker, one will not be available in 2017. |
Question: | My daughter is in high school and pitches with metal spikes. How well do you think this mat will hold up to pitching with metal spikes |
Answer: | This listing is for the 2nd Gen. SwingTracker sensor which includes a 12-month subscription to DiamondCLUB and Axon Sports Cognitive Pitch Recognition app. 1st Gen. SwingTrackers are no longer available for purchase. |
Question: | Is there any other difference between this mat and the more expensive mat that includes the carrying case? Other than the case |
Answer: | Hi! Yes, one SwingTracker sensor can be used for an entire team. To gain access to all features and metrics, each player will need a Premium Hitter subscription which costs $4.99 per month per player. You can also continue to use SwingTracker with your entire team without each player having a Premium Hitter subscription, however, only a limited number of features and metrics are available. If you have any additional questions about team setup, do not hesitate to reach out to our Customer Experience team at [email protected]. |
Product description
Spinner Training Aid forPitching & Throwing
Skill Level: Beginner & Advanced
Focus: Pitching & Throwing
The Spin Right Spinner is a fast pitch softball training aid that was designed to teach thespins and rotations of the softball to pitchers and overhand throwers.
Learn correctrotations for:
Fast Ball
Rise Ball
Drop Ball
Curve Ball
Screw Ball
Change-Up
Overhand Throw
The Spinner comes with written and online instructions to help understand how to use it to the best advantage of the athlete. Also included are numerous spinner drills, which are fully explained and demonstrated in the online instructions.
- Is the size and weight of an official 12" softball. Has two sets of molded seams on the edge to give the athlete an honest feel for the ball.
- PROVIDE INSTANT FEEDBACK: Will eliminate repeated error that occurs when the athlete, coach or catcher can not see the rotation of the softball, thus making practice time more efficient
- AVOID INJURY causing by the repeating incorrect motions and movements
- Provides A CLEAR UNDERSTANDING of the difficult hand and wrist positions essential to throwing the rise, curve, screw, change-up, drop and overhand throw ball
- Teaches the proper technique of coming over the ball for the overhand throw as opposed to the side arm release.
Product description
The GoSports 7' x 7' sports net is a must have for any Baseball or Softball player. The net is designed to help players train in several key areas; Hitting: Hit off a tee or have a coach lob balls to hit into the center part of the net. Players can focus on swing mechanics and technique without having to shag balls. Pitching: Each net includes an adjustable strike zone that attaches to the net so pitchers can dial in their various pitches without needing a catcher. Fielding: Set up the net behind a base and practice fielding balls and throwing accurately into the center of the net. The net sets up in minutes so it can easily be taken to fields for training, but it can also be used in your backyard. The net is made using a powder coated steel frame with a robust polyester net to withstand years of use. It is also backed by a go sports lifetime warranty so you can buy with confidence. This is a must have for any Baseball or softball player looking to take their game to the next level.
- ULTIMATE TRAINING AID: Perfect for players of all abilities in batting practice, pitching, fielding, catching, and backstop use - spend less time chasing balls and more time honing skills
- FOLDABLE SETUP: Bow frame included, sets up in 90 seconds to huge 7-foot x 7-foot size with metal stakes to anchor the net, making it incredibly sturdy and stable; easily breaks down for transport in carry bag
- BONUS STRIKE ZONE ATTACHMENT: Includes bonus strike zone target for pitching drills to develop command on the mound
User questions & answers
Question: | I need this tee for 12U softball will it work |
Answer: | Maybe enough room for 4-6 more. I put them into a 5 gallon pail w/ our other balls. Also, my son is a HS senior with small college hitting ability and these balls were totally destroyed after a few BP sessions. Youth usage only!!!! |
Question: | Is this suitable for/capable of use by adult hitters |
Answer: | These are not t - ball balls. These are hard base balls used in all other baseball leagues besides t-ball. |
Question: | Can you leave this outside except during the winter? It will be a pain to keep setting up |
Answer: | No. It's a smaller bucket with no pad. Just two dozen balls. |
Question: | Would this work well on a cement |
Answer: | Yes grandson is 10 years and 8 years |
Product features
How The GoSports Practice Net Benefits Players
Now you can set up virtually anywhere in no time at all. Players of all ages can greatly improve strength by taking more swings per day while gradually learning the different contact points of the ball. Whether you're adding more practice sessions throughout the week or carrying practice over to home the GoSports practice net is an easy and rewarding investment for everyone.
- 7'x7' PRACTICE NET - Instant portable baseball & softball net. Large sock net area can hold multiple buckets of balls, no need to stop the training session. Large bow style frame holds net secure and gives 49 SqFt. of hitting surface or protection. Includes 7ft x 7ft net, ground stakes and 1 heavy duty zipper carry bag with shoulder strap.
- EASY QUICK SETUP / ULTRA PORTABLE - Net sets up in less than 2 minutes. No tools required. Includes ground stakes for added stability. Nets can withstand even the hardest hits. Collapsible training nets assemble quickly and easily for easy setup. Lightweight for easy portability and placement during practice sessions. Breaks down to fit in carrying bag for easy long-term storage and portability in any vehicle.
- DURABLE - Our 7' by 7' net is designed to take the abuse of the hardest hits and throws. The steel frame and flexible fiberglass bow poles provide a steady base for our knotless polyester net with PU coating.
- TRAIN ANYWHERE / ANYTIME - Great for outdoor and indoor use. Perfect for tee work, hitting, pitching, batting, fielding. Can be used for as a portable backstop. Perfect for training sessions. Great for any backyard, garage or on the field. Works for solo or team training.
- USED & ENDORSED BY PRO PLAYERS - ANDRELTON SIMMONS, JOSE MARTINEZ, KIRSTI MERRITT.
User questions & answers
Question: | I am a six foot tall person, is this net high enough or will the ball sometime go over the net |
Answer: | I haven’t used it but two times. I certainly hope your situation isn’t a common problem. |
Question: | Has anyone tried putting a bownet pitch-thru net on the powernet frame? does it fit |
Answer: | Yes, you can use this to play your YEV-10 violin. THR10II has more power (20W vs 10W on THR5A). As for sound quality, it depends on what type of modeling or amplification you are looking for. THR10II has several 'flat' modes if you are looking for less colored output. Please refer to pg 23 of this document to compare different amp modes between the two models: https://usa.yamaha.com/files/download/brochure/9/1290269/thr-ii_catalog.pdf |
Question: | Is this sturdy enough for softball hitting practice |
Answer: | 20 Watts |
Question: | How about this net as a backstop for an aspiring young catcher while his old man, a former catcher, pretends to be a pitcher? Thanks for any input |
Answer: | This amp has acoustic modeling but they make an acoustic specific model. Here is the link to that one: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08K387BBJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_.w54FbTR8N85J |
Product features
Durable Frame
Flexible and dependable fiberglass frame with steel base and corner joints for added stability.
Weighted Base
Steel wide base is weighted for stability. Includes ground stakes when you need extra stability.
Easy Setup
Steel interlocking base with fiberglass upper poles for quick setup/breakdown. Reinforced top and bottom nylon loops and heavy duty hook and loop closures.
Long-lasting Net
Sturdy knotless polyester net with PU coating can take the hardest hit or throw and is ready for years of abuse.
Sturdy Seams
Each seam is double stitched offering a double layer of durability against each throw or hit.
Sock Net
Sock net built in to catch and hold balls during training session. Heavy duty seams with colored outline help act as a target.
- NEW lighter weight allows the user to more closely duplicate the actual pitch.
- Effective for all levels of pitching experience.
- Used by professional coaches to both create and maintain the pitching motion.
- It reduces the time consumed in both training and pre-game warm-ups.
- The spin motion allows the user to spin 60 to 100 spins per minute. More repetitions done correctly with less time used provides a faster more efficient training experience.
User questions & answers
Question: | What is the round ring at the end of the strap for? I don’t know which one to pick for my 13yr old travel ball pitcher. Composite, 2nd gen, ultimate |
Answer: | The round ring is a safety device to keep the ball and Xelerator from separating. It should rarely if ever be an issue that the two should separate. however better safe than sorry. When the pitcher puts on the Xelerator she should adjust it so that the ball and tube are 2 to 3 inches apart. To adjust the strap length insert the pitcher's hand in the loop between the the ball and cord lock. To shorten the strap squeeze the cord lock and slide it down the strap toward the ball. To lengthen the strap do the opposite. In terms of which Xelerator to chose. First of all she will need a 12 inch ball because of her age. Now she has to chose between a leather ball and a foam one. Leather feels better to the pitcher however it is about 40 percent heavier when you chose leather. This makes the Xelerator seem a little more when spinning. The second generation has all the same options as the others that you have named. You can have in Leather ball or foam and 11 inch or 12 inch.The other Xelerators that you have named all come with a rope versus and strap. The second generation went to a strap to make it lighter, more flexible and easier on the skin of the wrist. There are only two businesses that build and sell the Xelerator. The Xelerator was created by a partnership of Steve and Ken. I chose to dissolve the partnership as we do business different. When it was dissolved I chose to change the design to what I felt was better for my Pitchers. I am the pitching coach and have been on for over 30 years. Steve and his daughter were my clients. Hope that helps. Feel free to ask further questions if you chose. Thanks Ken |
Question: | Does this come with instructional DVD |
Answer: | This does come with an instructional video. I also have a written insert that adds additional insert with my phone number on it for questions and suggestions. Thanks for asking Ken |
Question: | My daughter will only be usi g an 11" ball for a couple of more months. Would it be ok for her to practice with the 12" ball |
Answer: | I’m gonna have to buy a new one soon, since either fall ball or definitely spring she will move up to 12u. When we throw at home, I have her throw some 12 in balls. To help with grip and spin. Hope this helped |
Question: | How do i know if this fits? i keep reading that you should enter your model number to ensure it fits. where would i even enter it and why |
Answer: | The second generation Xelerator except maybe the extreme , like maybe a 4 or 5 year old, will fit anyone. To adjust the strap length insert the pitchers hand in the loop between the ball and Cord Lock. To shorten the strap squeeze the Cord Lock and slide it down the strap toward the ball. To lengthen the strap do the opposite. The tube should be 2 to 3 inches from the ball. If the tube hits the ground the pitcher is probably too small to use an Xelerator. I have decreased its weight so that it weighs about 10 to 11 ounces with the foam ball. Feel free to ask any questions you have. I have pitched competitively for 15 years and have coached for over 30. Thank you for your interest. 503-8352100 Ken |
Product description
100% 46 Oz. Face Weight Nylon Material With 5mm Foam That Is Spike Proof. Portable pitching mat comes with a permanent 4" tufted in white turf line to indicate proper foot placement and balance. Regulation size pitching rubber. Excellent for teaching the correct move to home plate. Mat measures 3 Foot Wide x 10 Foot Long.
- Regulation size pitching rubber
- Size: 3ft x 10ft
- Made From 100% Nylon Material With 5mm Foam That Is Spike Proof
- Made In The USA
- Mat Color Is Clay
User questions & answers
Question: | Can you move the position of the rubber |
Answer: | No but the mat is portable. |
Question: | Anyone have experience using this on a road, and did it slide around or hold in place well? My daughter is 16 so lots of torque when she pitches |
Answer: | We use ours on cement with a 12U pitcher and it moves a little. I would say a 16 year old with a lot of torque will definitely move this mat on cement. I do not know the difference between cement and road. The mat works great for us. |
Question: | Would it be safe to leave outside permanently withstanding rain? I'm looking into having a bullpen in my backyard for my daughter |
Answer: | Yes you can leave outside you might have to put something under the mat because it slipped on us |
Question: | I have a slope in my back yard that is in the plain of a baseball pitching mound. Could this be used on grass for a high school baseball pitcher |
Answer: | I don’t see why not but I never used it outside in the grass |
Product description
Baseball net not included. The Go Sports Xtraman & strike zone help pitchers visualize six partitioned areas of the strike zone with a ‘player’ in the batter’s box. These game changing training aids take seconds to attach, adjust and detach. Use the Xtraman & strike zone at Home, at practice, or in the bullpen on game day. Made of durable nylon webbing with hook-and-loop attachments, these pitching aids are a must have for any training regimen. The Xtraman & strike zone attachments are great for Baseball or softball training so you can fine tune your pitching practice and build confidence on the mound.
- NET NOT INCLUDED: Kit Includes 1 Strike Zone with six partitioned areas of the strike zone and 1 Xtraman batter so players can fine tune pitching with a ‘player’ and build confidence - Baseball net not included
- IMPROVES ACCURACY AND SAFETY: The strike zone attachment helps players visualize key areas when pitching and the Xtraman simulates a live batter for safe and effective pitching drills
- INCLUDES XTRAMAN ONLY: No need to risk player safety in the batter’s box - Simply attach the Strike Zone & Xtraman onto any 7’x7’ bow frame net (Net not included) or fence for instant practice sessions
- BUILT FOR PRACTICE: Features durable nylon webbing construction that withstands pitching drills and is easily transportable in equipment bags to and from practice
User questions & answers
Question: | Can you hit into it as well |
Answer: | Hello, Large is a size 14-16, 18-20 is x-large. Thanks! |
Question: | Is this the whole netting or just the attached batter |
Answer: | Since this is a youth jersey, I would probably order her the biggest size they offer, 10/12 or 18/20 depending on her height. I ordered a youth XL (18/20). I am 5'7" and weigh 130. It fit perfect. Hope this helps! Good luck |
Question: | How does it attach and can you attach it to any net |
Answer: | Kids size and yes it’s a Jersey Good buy |
Question: | Were do I get the netting shown in picture and the poles to attach it |
Answer: | This fits my 11 year old. It’s a little big on him. |
Product features
GoSports Baseball & Softball Pitching Kit
- OPTIMIZE PITCHING PRACTICE: Includes 1 Strike Zone with six partitioned areas of the strike zone and 1 Xtraman batter so players can fine tune pitching with a ‘player’ and build confidence! Baseball net not included.
- IMPROVES ACCURACY AND SAFETY: The strike zone attachment helps players visualize key areas when pitching and the Xtraman simulates a live batter for safe and effective pitching drills
- ATTACH TO NETS OR FENCES: No need to risk player safety in the batter’s box - simply attach the Strike Zone & Xtraman onto any 7’x7’ bow frame net (not included) or fence for instant practice sessions!
- BUILT FOR PRACTICE: Features durable nylon webbing construction that withstands pitching drills and is easily transportable in equipment bags to and from practice
Product description
Spinners rotation and movement provides instant feedback
Suitable for practicing baseline technique of wrist and hand motions
Spinner Training Aid forPitching & Throwing
Skill Level: Beginner & Advanced
Focus: Pitching & Throwing
The Spin Right Spinner is a fast pitch softball training aid that was designed to teach thespins and rotations of the softball to pitchers and overhand throwers
- GREAT PRODUCT PROFESSIONAL SIZE: official 12" softball,Has two sets of molded seams on the edge to give the athlete an honest feel for the ball
- PRACTICE PITCHING SKILLS:Practice in your free time, warm up before the game, Teaches the proper technique of coming over the ball for the overhand throw as opposed to the side arm release
- PROVIDE INSTANT FEEDBACK: Will eliminate repeated error that occurs when the athlete, coach or catcher can not see the rotation of the softball, thus making practice time more efficient
- PROVIDES A CLEAR UNDERSTANDING: of the difficult hand and wrist positions essential to throwing the rise, curve, screw, change-up, drop and overhand throw ball
- INTERESTING TIP: the softball trainer can also act as a dog toy, you can try to "train" with your pet dog
User questions & answers
Question: | Does it come with booklet |
Answer: | No |
Question: | Are video tutorials included in the product |
Answer: | No, but you can search on the website |
Question: | Where can I find instructional videos? I really need it right now |
Answer: | You can find many instructional videos on YouTube. |
Question: | Is it really helpful for training |
Answer: | Yes, for novices, you can learn pitching skills |
Product description
Introducing the Louisville Slugger Black Flame Pitching Machine. The Black Flame is the ultimate multi-sport training aid for coaches and players. It throws any type of ball and is ideal for use in baseball, softball, tennis, cricket, volleyball and soccer. Extremely accurate, the Black Flame simplifies your training by throwing different types of pitches including ground balls, fly-balls and straight pitches between 18 and 50 miles per hour. Weighing in at only 24 lbs. this machine is completely portable, sturdy, mechanical, and easy to use. Take it anywhere, indoors or out, and throw perfect pitches without the need of battery packs or cumbersome electric cords. This is the official pitching machine of Babe Ruth League and Pony Baseball and Softball. The most trusted, proven, and reliable mechanical pitching machine on the market makes it the machine of choice for youth teams across North America. Made in Taiwan
- Throws baseballs at speeds up to 50 MPH
- No batteries or electrical cords required
- Interchangeable components let it switch from throwing strikes to high fly balls or ground balls
- Compatible with plastic, dimple, restricted flight, hard and soft balls
- Official pitching machine of Babe Ruth and Pony League Baseball and Softball
User questions & answers
Question: | Power source |
Answer: | Yes but very very flimsy |
Question: | Automatic feed for this model |
Answer: | Rubber 👍🏿 |
Question: | Can this be easliy transported, id like to bring it to the fields for my son |
Answer: | Just over 3 feet but it fell apart after 1 week I suggest save your money or get the net good luck |
Question: | Will this machine work well on concrete/blacktop or in a gym? I'm concerned about it needing to be staked down |
Answer: | Base does anchor to the ground with plastic pins through holes on the base. Bat is made of foam as are the 4 balls. Center pole that fits into the center of the base is made of hard plastic with a foam top that is about the size of a half dollar to rest the ball. |
Product description
Train on the same pitching mat as Olympic Gold Medalist Jennie Finch. Finch Mats are made from spike-resistant, durable artificial turf. Mat comes with a regulation pitching rubber and have a 2" inlaid white line for more precise training for softball pitchers of all ages. All Jennie Finch softball pitching mats come with our non-slip backing*, keeping your mat from moving during indoor training. Portable with included carrying case. Comes with green turf. Dimension: 3'W x 10'L.
- Mat comes with regulation pitching rubber and have 2" inlaid white line for more precise training for softball pitchers of all ages
- Non-Slip backing, keeping your mat from moving during indoor training
- Portable with included carrying case
- Comes with green turf
- Dimension: 3'W x 10'L
User questions & answers
Question: | Is it going to slip |
Answer: | We have used it several times and it has not slipped yet. Seems like a very good mat, especially for the price. |
Question: | Is this the real autographed pitching mound |
Answer: | Not a real signature. Just one molded into the pitching rubber |
Question: | Is this a Jennie Finch MP2036? Or is it a different brand, if so who is this made by |
Answer: | No, this me by All Turf Mats. Does not compare to the Jennie Finch model. We returned ours twice and then purchased the Finch mat. |
Product description
18" x 4" heavy duty weather resistant construction. The product is Ideal for Baseball and Softball leagues. The product is manufactured in Taiwan.
- 18 X 4" Heavy Duty Weather Resistant Construction
- Ideal For Baseball And Softball Leagues
- Easy To Stake Down And Remove
- Country Of Origin: Taiwan, Province Of China
User questions & answers
Question: | Can it be nailed down into a wood mound with astro turf without the spikes breaking |
Answer: | Yes they are strong nails. No problem at all. |
Question: | Edge of rubber chipping off after 3 uses. Anyone has same problem |
Answer: | Ours is good after one season. The gardener edges around it and it looks fine. |
Question: | Can this be used without the spikes |
Answer: | Yes it can only if used in the grass. If you use it in the dirt with out the spikes it will move. |
Question: | Are the spikes included? If not, are they sold separately |
Answer: | Hi, yes the spikes are included. |
Product description
The ProLane keeps your player's softball pitching motion as consistent as possible on every pitch. Mats can be easily rolled up and stored if needed. Use indoors or outdoors.
- Mat measures 10 ft long X 3 ft wide. Weighs approx 30 lbs.
- 2 inch inlaid white power line AND lane for more precise training for pitchers of all ages. Inlaid white lines, lane, plate will not flake or fade.
- Regulation sized pitching rubber attached.
- Made in the USA! Free shipping!!
- 100% nylon material with 5mm foam backing. No slip technology guarntees your mat will not slip when you pitch.
User questions & answers
Question: | Is there a carrying case |
Answer: | no |
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