#softballtraining

If you're a softball player struggling with throwing a changeup during a game, this article is for you. Below, you'll find step-by-step instructions on how to throw a changeup in softball.

One of the primary reasons players throw changeups is to confuse their opponents by making them think it's a regular fastball. Here are the steps to follow:

Step One: Create a circle using your first finger and thumb Begin by creating a circle at the U-shape or horseshoe of the stitches on the softball. Try to create a circle around a visual point on the ball. You can use the last or first letter in the branding label of your ball to create the circle. This will help you grip the same spot whenever you want to throw. Note that the smaller the circle, the more downward movement your pitch will have.

If you're new to throwing a changeup in softball and want to begin with the circle changeup, try forming a C using your first finger and thumb.

Step Two: Spread the remaining fingers evenly Since your first finger and thumb are busy with step one, use your pinky, middle, and ring fingers to spread evenly over the top of the ball. Concentrate on squeezing the ball with your thumb and pinky fingers, as it will help control the speed and movement of your pitch. You can position your pinky and thumb under the soft leather section of your ball for help.

Step Three: Turn your hand at the release point At the release point, turn your hand so that the circle is facing the catcher. Swing your arm around, and as your hand gets closer to the release point, quickly turn your hand around. The circle should be facing the catcher, and you can release the ball by popping your fingers outwards. Make sure your arm reaches full extension at your hip.

Some people imagine a dot at the center of the circle and aim to throw it at the catcher to get this step right.

In conclusion, learning how to throw a changeup in softball is important, as it can be a useful pitch. Remember to practice and use it at the right time. Check out our article on how to throw a drop ball in softball to add more pitches to your repertoire.

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Many people worldwide enjoy playing softball, a team sport that demands physical strength, agility, and skill. Throwing is a crucial skill in softball, especially the drop ball, a pitch that abruptly drops as it nears the batter, making it challenging to hit. This blog will provide guidance on how to throw a drop ball in softball.

Proper Ball Grip

The first step towards throwing a drop ball is to grip the ball correctly. To achieve this, place your fingers on the ball's seams and apply pressure with your fingertips. The ball should rest in your palm, and your hand should be relaxed and not too tight.

Four-Seam Grip

The next step is to use a four-seam grip. Hold the ball with all four seams facing forward, allowing the ball to rotate easily and create the drop.

Create Backspin

To throw a drop ball, you need to create backspin on the ball. This is achieved by snapping your wrist downwards as you release the ball, causing it to drop abruptly towards the batter.

Practice Your Release

Practicing your release is crucial in effectively throwing a drop ball. Your release should be quick and precise, with your wrist snapping downwards as you let go of the ball. Follow through with your pitch by extending your arm downwards and towards the ground.

Vary Speeds

To be a successful pitcher, you need to vary your pitch speeds. Throwing the drop ball at the same speed every time makes it easier for batters to hit. Vary your drop ball's speed to keep batters guessing.

Mix Up Your Pitches

Mixing up your pitches is also essential. Throwing a drop ball every time makes it easier for batters to anticipate your pitch. Mix up your pitches by throwing different types of pitches, including curveballs, sliders, and changeups.

In conclusion, the drop ball is a vital pitch in softball that requires practice and skill to master. To throw a drop ball effectively, grip the ball properly, use a four-seam grip, create a backspin, practice your release, vary your speeds, and mix up your pitches. With dedication and practice, you can become a skilled pitcher and help your team win games.

Softball is an exciting and challenging sport that requires various skills and techniques to excel. One of the most challenging pitches to hit in softball is the rise ball. This pitch has a unique trajectory that causes the ball to move upwards, making it challenging to hit. However, with the right techniques and strategies, you can learn how to hit a rise ball in softball. In this blog, we will discuss some essential tips to help you master this challenging pitch.

Keep Your Eye on the Ball The first and most crucial step to hitting a rise ball is to keep your eye on the ball. Focus on the pitcher's release point and track the ball as it approaches you. This will give you a better understanding of the ball's trajectory, enabling you to adjust your swing accordingly.

Practice Your Timing Timing is everything in hitting a rise ball. You need to time your swing correctly to make contact with the ball. To practice your timing, you can ask a teammate or coach to throw rise balls to you during batting practice. Pay attention to the ball's trajectory and adjust your swing accordingly.

Use a Shorter Swing When hitting a rise ball, you should use a shorter swing. This means that you should keep your swing compact and swing through the ball quickly. A shorter swing will help you make contact with the ball before it rises too high, enabling you to hit it effectively.

Focus on Your Footwork Footwork is crucial in hitting any pitch in softball, and the rise ball is no exception. You should focus on your footwork and ensure that you have a solid base before swinging. This will help you generate power and transfer your weight efficiently, giving you a better chance of hitting the ball.

Practice, Practice, Practice Finally, the key to hitting a rise ball in softball is to practice, practice, and practice. The more you practice hitting rise balls, the better you will become at it. Take advantage of batting practice and ask your coach to throw rise balls to you. Repetition is the key to developing muscle memory and improving your ability to hit the rise ball.

In conclusion, hitting a rise ball in softball requires practice, focus, and timing. By keeping your eye on the ball, using a shorter swing, focusing on your footwork, and practicing regularly, you can improve your ability to hit this challenging pitch. With dedication and hard work, you can become a skilled hitter and excel in softball.