How to Catch a Softball

Do you find yourself rooting from the dugout instead of playing? Being able to catch the ball in softball is a skill that can help get you on the field. And though the glove will help you, it won't do the whole job on its own.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Remember that catching the ball is mostly about glove placement. Line up the glove and your body with the ball, placing the pocket of the glove toward the ball.

2. Turn the fingers of the glove up, in line with the throwing shoulder, if the ball is above your waist. Place your throwing hand to the side and behind the glove so that you can fish the ball out quickly and throw it into play.

3. Catch a fly ball, ideally, on your throwing-hand side. Point your fingers toward the sky, with your palm facing the ball. Extend your arm, keeping it bent slightly with the elbow down. A common mistake when catching a fly ball is to lift the elbow.

4. Turn the fingers of the glove down if the ball is below your waist. Place the glove in front of you, between your legs, with your throwing hand to the side and behind the glove. When the ball is cruising along the ground, catch it in front of you, not under you.

5. Remember to bend your elbows when you put the glove out to meet the ball. This will absorb the impact so that it doesn't hit the glove and bounce out.

Tips & Warnings

• "Practice, practice, practice," says Ray VanderMay, women's softball coach at Seton Hall University. "There is no hidden secret to catching a softball."
• Make sure you've warmed up well (for 15 to 30 minutes) before beginning to play.
• Softball is a physically demanding sport that could result in serious injury. We recommend that you seek the proper equipment and training before undertaking this activity.

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on 12/12/2008 Always use two hands when possible! How frustrating is it to have a ball in your glove and have it pop out... Two hands!

on 8/8/2006 When you are catching a fly ball, or any ball, make sure you use your throwing hand to secure the ball in the glove. Squeeze with the gloved hand and close with the second hand. Make sure to catch the ball, then think about the play. Sometimes you start thinking too soon and fumble the ball. When you're in the outfield, never back peddle to catch it or you will fall over. Turn, then run to the ball.

on 8/8/2006 If playing in the outfield, I have found that it really does help if you make your first step back, then run into position to catch the ball. After the ball has been caught, I am also very fond of using the "Crow Hop".

on 8/8/2006 After you catch a fly ball, use your throwing hand to secure the ball inside your glove. If it's a grounder, make sure your glove is to the dirt and your throwing hand is covering the side of the mitt, just in case the ball pops up while you're catching it.

on 11/22/2005 When catching a fly ball, first run to where you need to be and then put your glove up to catch the ball. Don't try to run into position with your glove up in the air. It will slow you down and can even get in between your eyes and the ball.