Slowpitch softball techniques vary pretty dramatically from techniques used in baseball. The ball does not move with the same speed, thus, it’s important to learn to exploit the slow speed to strike out a batter. If you come from a baseball background, it will take some adjustment to learn how to pitch underhand; rest assured, with practice it can be done!

The foundational straight pitch is the bedrock of slow pitch; this is where one puts his or her index finger over the left seam, with their middle finger next to it.  Placing the thumb along the bottom of the softball, between the seams, is the proper positioning for the thumb.  Move your index and middle finger away from one another, and this will veer the softball to the right.

You can also do a slider pitch, which is where the softball curves at the end of the throw. Where to lay the fingers is the same as the straight pitch, except the thumb is closer to the index finger. Grip tightly with the ring finger and pinky finger, and the softball flies steady. Avoid twisting the wrist, and you have a slider pitch!

These are just a few of the pitching techniques to learn when familiarizing oneself with the world of slow pitch softball. There are many reasons to join a local intramural softball team, not the least of which is improving physical fitness with some outdoor play. In addition to the physical benefits, it is an opportunity to meet new friends in a new environment.   It’s natural to want to perfect slow pitch softball pitching techniques, as well as learn how to pitch underhand, so take some time to get an education.   When the game is over, the effort will have been well worth it.