Tips for How to Hit a Softball Left Handed
Softball is a game played by both men and women.The sport's two varieties are slow-pitch and fast pitch. As in baseball, softball hitters can bat right-handed or left-handed. Some players can also switch hit, which means they're able to hit both right- and left-handed. Left-handed hitters have an advantage because they're closer to first base.
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Instructions
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Hold the softball bat with your left hand above your right hand. Grip the handle with both hands, with your right hand at or near the knob.
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Stand facing home plate with your right foot towards the field and your left foot behind. Your feet should be parallel with home plate, about shoulder-width apart or a bit wider. Point your toes at home plate.
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Raise the bat over your left shoulder, a few inches from your head, depending on what feels comfortable. Angle the bat at 45 degrees relative to the ground, then adjust it to suit your comfort level.
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Make sure your left elbow is bent and raised at approximately shoulder level. The bat should be lifted so that if you set it down, it would rest comfortably on your left shoulder.
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Begin with your weight over your back foot. When the ball is pitched and you're ready to hit, take a step with your right foot towards the field and shift your weight onto that foot.
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Push off your back foot, towards the field.
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As you swing the bat, turn your hips in the direction of your swing. Keep your head still and your eyes focused on the ball throughout your swing. Follow through will your swing after making contact.
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Tips & Warnings
Begin with standard swing fundamentals. Over time, adjust your stance and swing so it feels comfortable.
If you're used to hitting right-handed, practice swinging left-handed several times before you swing at a ball. It will feel different if you're not used to swinging left-handed. Just keep practicing.
Being able to bat left-handed successfully allows the player a head start to first base. The left-handed batter's box is closer to first base than the right-handed box is.
Be sure to wear a helmet to prevent injury if you play fast-pitch softball.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit play ball image by brelsbil from Fotolia.com
