How to develop fastpitch softball players

Introduction

Training and teaching fast-pitch softball players is similar to developing baseball players, but there are critical differences. This article will cover the basics that coaches and parents need to know. This video clip from ClubHouseGas includes suggestions from high school coaches.

By: Jeff Gordon

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Difficulty: Moderate

Tips & Warnings:

High-end fastpitch bats make a world of difference for hitters. The investment, upwards of $300, is worth it.
Power hitters should use "end-loaded" bats. Contact hitters should used balanced bats.
Pitchers capable of changing speeds and hitting locations often outperform hard throwers, as is the case in baseball.
Long throwing is a great way to develop arm strength for players at every position.
Fastpitch softball can be more tactical than baseball, so fielders must stay on top game situations and communicate quickly and clearly.
Protective face shields are a good idea for pitchers and third basemen playing at the select level. The often have little or no time to react to line drives.
Because pitchers throw so many games, select teams can play game after game day after day. There is tremendous risk of burnout.
Coaches and personal instructors teach a variety of hitting and pitching styles. It is important to find the style that suits the player and stick with it.

Step1

Understand the challenge of playing fastpitch softball at the select level. Good pitchers dominate, throwing from short distances (35 to 43 feet, depending on the age) with great velocity and variety. Hitters must develop quick swings. The compact infield and shorter base paths put a premium on bunting and "slap" hitting.

Step2

Jennie Finch, the master The "windmill" pitching motion is more natural than the overhand baseball pitching motion. It puts less stress on shoulders and elbows. Pitchers are able to work several games during a weekend tournament. But the motion is difficult to master without the help of an expert instructor or experienced pitcher.

Step3

A good fastpitch softball swing is even more compact than a good baseball swing. The bats cuts a diagonal path through the strike zone, from high to low. A good tool to teach this swing is the Louisville Slugger Big Kids Instructo-Swing.

Step4

An athlete with exceptional speed may want to master "slap" hitting. From the left side of the plate, the hitter moves forward in the batter' s box while bunting or slapping the ball into the ground. The hitter can get well down the first baseline before a fielder can reach the ball. There are several good examples of that in the Arizona-Arizona State highlight video.

Step5

Infielders must possess great reflexes. Third basemen usually play in tight to take away the bunt. Second basemen often play in tight against slap hitters. First basemen and pitchers must charge bunts, too, while the second baseman covers first. Shortstops must field everything cleanly. The "softhands" fielding tool helps infielders develop the needed dexterity.

Step6

Good catchers have great value in the fastpitch game. They must be able to field bunts, control the running game, avoid passed balls and take away wild pitches. Catchers must develop quick glove-to-throwing- hand exchanges, great arm strength and excellent pitch blocking skills.