A Service of TPM Fastpitch
Resource Guide for Newbies
Welcome to the Get Hooked Community Resource Guide for newbies to the game of Fastpitch softball. With our experience in the softball industry since 1992, we have created a curated resource guide to help newbies learn all about the basics of the game.
Our team of experts has gathered valuable information to guide you in your journey to becoming more informed about the intricacies of the game. For even more information, check out our e-book on the resource guide for newbies. Check out our online training courses and Resource Guide Companion Course, specially designed for newbies. We also have a blog with helpful tips and advice for newbies. Our team of experts is always on hand to offer guidance and support so you can play your best game and achieve your goals on the field, get in touch or join a discussion on our forums to get advice and tips to elevate your game.
Browse through the in-page menu topics of our curated resource guide for newbies:
Fast pitch softball, also known as fastpitch, is a variant of softball played by both women and men, including mixed-gender teams. It is the style of softball showcased in the Olympic Games, having been featured in 1996, 2000, 2004, 2008, and 2020. Pitchers deliver the ball using an underhand technique, reaching speeds of up to 77 miles per hour (124 km/h) for women and up to 105 miles per hour (169 km/h) for men.
The pitching style in fast pitch softball differs from that of slow pitch softball. Pitchers typically employ a "windmill" motion, starting with the arm at the hip and completing a circular trajectory over the head before releasing the ball with a snap at the hip. Various pitches can be utilized, including two-seam and four-seam fastballs, changeups, riseballs, dropballs, curveballs, offspeed pitches, screwballs, knuckleballs, and more. These pitches can be taught in diverse methods based on the coach's approach and the player's abilities.
Fast pitch softball resembles baseball in some aspects, allowing for base stealing and bunting. However, unlike baseball, there is no "leading off" in fastpitch; runners can only advance when the pitcher releases the ball. Most leagues follow the "dropped third strike" rule, enabling batters to attempt advancing to first base if the catcher fails to catch the third strike.
INTRODUCTION TO SOFTBALL
ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT
WHAT EQUIPMENT DO YOU NEED FOR SOFTBALL?
As the spring season rolls in, it's time to embrace the return of softball and gear up for the games ahead! Softball involves high-speed ball movements, emphasizing the need for player safety. The equipment required varies based on the player's position, ensuring both protection and mobility. We've put together a rundown of essential softball gear to ensure you're fully equipped and ready to shine on the field!
BALL
The essential element in softball is the ball, which is spherical in shape. For players aged 10 and younger, the standard ball circumference is 11 inches, while for those 11 and above, the circumference increases to 12 inches. Despite the name "softball," the ball itself is not soft; it is constructed from hard leather, typically in white or yellow, and is internally filled with a combination of cork, rubber, and synthetic materials.
BAT
After the ball, the bat is essential in softball. It should be solid, either in one piece or two joined sections, measuring up to 34 inches, made of aluminum or composite, with a 2.5-inch diameter. For casual use, any solid bat works, but league play demands an ASA-certified bat. Softball bats have thinner, tapered handles compared to baseball bats.
GLOVE
In softball, there are two main types of gloves: regular gloves and mitts. Regular gloves have separate fingers and less padding, suitable for outfielders and most infielders.
Mitts, on the other hand, are designed for catchers and first basemen, featuring a larger size and additional padding to protect the hand from high-speed throws.
CLEATS
All softball players must wear cleats, regardless of their position. Cleats prevent slipping and sliding on muddy grass and clay, thanks to their metal or molded studs, which facilitate running, jumping, and sliding without hindrance.
FACEMASK
Facemasks safeguard players' eyes, nose, mouth, and teeth from serious injuries, such as concussions or temporary blindness, caused by fast balls. While only catchers are mandated to wear a mask during defensive play, other players may opt to use one for added protection.
HELMET
The helmet is a crucial piece of equipment, mandatory for all players to prevent serious or fatal injuries. Constructed from durable plastic and foam, it disperses the impact of any ball hit to the head.
CATCHERS GEAR
Catchers are at a high risk of being hit by the ball, necessitating additional protective gear. They must wear helmets equipped with face guards and throat protectors, along with full-body protection including chest guards and shin guards that extend above the knees.
SUNGLASSES
Prescription sunglasses are essential for any player on the field, regardless of their position, as they are the final piece of equipment that can truly enhance your performance.
Are you just starting out in softball and unsure of what equipment you need to get started? Don't worry, we've got you covered! Check out our preferred vendors for softball equipment suppliers and get our e-book for specific product recommendations for newbie athletes!
Softball stands out as a sport that blends technical prowess and psychological acumen, offering a simple entry point for beginners to grasp its fundamentals. Mastering softball demands a diverse set of skills to excel on the field.
Athletes engaged in softball must possess key abilities such as running, catching, power hitting, throwing, and contact hitting. These core competencies, often dubbed as the "five tools," are what scouts and coaches keenly observe in softball players.
Pitching stands out as a pivotal skill essential for effective softball gameplay. The good news is that only one player out of the nine on the team needs to excel in this crucial role.
BASIC SKILLS AND TECHNIQUES
DIMENSIONS, DISTANCE AND DIAMETERS
The distance from home to first base is 60 feet.
84 feet 10 1/4 inches from back point of home plate to the middle of the base.
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14 and under teams typically use a mound that is 40 feet away from home plate.
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15 and up teams typically use a mound that is 43 feet away from home plate.
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The boxes, one on each side of home plate measures 3 feet by 7 feet, including the lines. The outer edge of the lines of the batter's box should be 6 inches from home plate. The front line of each box shall be 4 feet in front of a line drawn through the center of home plate. The four lines must be drawn.
The sides shall be 8.5 inches long, and the edge facing the pitcher shall be 17 inches wide and parallel to the pitcher's plate. The sides of the point facing the catcher shall be 12 inches long. Home plate must be a five-sided slab of whitened rubber or other suitable white material.
The pitcher's circle should be a circular area with an 8-foot radius, drawn from the center of the front edge of the pitcher's plate used to define the pitcher's area for purposes of the look-back rule.
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6-foot fence at 190 feet in right and left fields and 220 feet in center field
OR
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4-foot fence at 210 feet in right and left fields and 230 feet in center field.
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UNDERSTANDING POSITIONS
Coaches explain the nine positions in softball and the skills needed to excel in each of them.
In a nutshell, a softball match involves two teams taking turns batting to secure the highest run count. The game consists of seven innings, with each inning split into two halves: the "top" where the visiting team bats, and the "bottom" where the home team takes their turn at bat.
Within the game, the nine players on the field each hold specific positions with distinct roles and skill requirements. Here, three softball coaches affiliated with the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) delve into the unique responsibilities and skill sets associated with the various positions in softball.
Softball Fielding Positions
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Pitcher
Every softball play commences with the pitcher positioned at the heart of the infield. Holding the ball on the pitcher's plate, a rectangular 24 by 6-inch slab known as the rubber, the pitcher stands 43 feet away from the back point of home plate where the batter and catcher await. The game initiates as the pitcher launches the ball towards home plate.
In fast-pitch softball, pitchers generate significant pitch velocity using a wind-up technique known as the windmill. This dynamic motion involves the throwing arm sweeping in a large circle while the pitcher advances with the non-throwing leg. Upon the foot hitting the ground, the pitcher delivers the ball underhand, propelling it towards the catcher stationed at home plate.
There are several types of pitches softball pitchers throw:
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Fastballs, the foundational pitch, are thrown in a direct and swift manner.
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Rise balls give the impression of a straight throw but elevate vertically en route to home plate, ultimately landing above the strike zone.
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Drop balls, on the contrary, initially resemble fastballs but, due to a specific spin, drop sharply just before reaching the catcher's mitt.
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Curveballs and screwballs exhibit a twisting motion as they travel towards the plate, causing the softball to sway sideways approaching the batter.
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Changeups bear a resemblance to fastballs but arrive at a slower pace than their swift counterparts.
Joanna Hardin, head softball coach more you can keep hitters off balance,” she said. When a pitcher can throw multiple speeds to both sides of the plate, batters have to wait longer to react to each pitch. That split second of hesitation can keep the batter from getting the barrel of the bat on the ball, she said.
But the pitcher’s job isn’t done once they throw the ball. They must also field ground balls and pop ups in the infield — some that are hit directly to them but also short ground balls along the first and third base lines.
When pitchers hone their agility and can quickly sprint to short ground balls and field them, it makes the infielders’ jobs easier, said Bridget Orchard, head softball coach at Villanova University.
“If your pitcher can’t field well off the mound, the third baseman has a lot more work to do — they know they have to get everything,” from short bunts to hard ground balls that are hit past third base, she said.
But when the pitcher is able to quickly get to those balls, the third baseman — or the first baseman, for balls hit up the first base line — can focus on fielding balls that are hit harder or farther down the base lines.
At the beginning of the game, the pitcher who takes the field is called the “starting pitcher.” At any point in the game, the team’s coach can remove the starter and bring in a “relief pitcher,” who takes over the position.
2. Catcher
Behind home plate, catchers assume their primary role of receiving pitches from the pitcher, yet their responsibilities extend beyond this fundamental task, as highlighted by Hardin.
Apart from catching pitches, catchers play a pivotal role in signaling the pitcher on pitch types and locations. Moreover, when a batter hits the ball into the outfield, catchers collaborate with the middle infielders to coordinate defensive alignments for returning the ball. Catchers are also tasked with defending home plate and making accurate throws to second and third base to thwart base steal attempts.
Despite the flurry of activities, one of the catcher's crucial tasks involves halting the game at strategic moments by calling for a timeout, according to Hardin.
“The most effective catchers know the right time to call timeout,” she said. “They can see the pace of the pitcher. They can see if the pitcher’s routines are rushed or if the pitcher’s heart rate is up, so they know when to call timeout and then what to say.”
During a timeout, the catcher may visit the pitcher at the rubber. Here, Hardin said, the catcher can help a struggling or rushing pitcher reset and regroup, regain their poise and refocus.
Great catchers can also make pitches look better than they are based on how they catch the ball, she said. By moving their glove slightly as they catch a ball, catchers may make a ball that’s outside or inside appear to have been a strike. This is called “pitch framing.”
“Catchers can steal a lot of strikes by how they receive pitches,” she said. “They know how to make every pitch look good, so the umpire gives you the benefit of the doubt [on close pitches].”
3. First Baseman
The player stationed at first base plays a pivotal role in the infield. Positioned strategically near first base, this infielder faces the task of skillfully fielding ground balls directed towards them and ensuring they touch first base before the opposing runner reaches the bag, a crucial maneuver that determines whether the runner is declared safe or out.
Moreover, their responsibilities extend to catching throws from other infielders. In scenarios where there are no opposing team runners on base and a ground ball is hit towards the second baseman, third baseman, shortstop, or pitcher, these infielders swiftly relay the ball to the first baseman. The first baseman must deftly catch the ball while ensuring at least one foot maintains contact with first base. By executing this maneuver before the batter reaches first base, they secure the out.
Given the weight of these responsibilities, players occupying the first base position often showcase exceptional ball-catching abilities. To aid in this task, they commonly opt for a slightly larger glove known as a first baseman’s mitt. This specialized equipment provides them with the necessary advantage to effectively snag balls that are thrown high, wide, or that bounce unpredictably in front of their glove, further solidifying their role as a defensive linchpin within the team's infield.
4. Second Baseman
Positioned between first and second base, the second baseman is a versatile player requiring speed, agility, and adept fielding skills. These individuals are tasked with covering both first and second base as needed, handling various defensive plays such as receiving throws from the outfield, fielding ground balls, and catching fly balls.
Known for their solid overhand throw, although not as potent as that of the shortstop, second basemen play a crucial role in defensive maneuvers, particularly in converting double plays. When a ground ball is hit with a runner on first base, the team aims to secure outs on both the runner and he batter in a single play—a task in which second basemen excel. They are instrumental in swiftly executing these plays, often referred to as "turning two."
In collaboration with shortstops, second basemen also assume leadership roles on the field. Working together, they coordinate defensive strategies, especially when outfield balls are hit, ensuring proper positioning to prevent runners from advancing. This partnership underscores the critical communication and strategic coordination required for effective defensive play.
6. Shortstop
The shortstop plays a crucial role between second and third base, needing to handle various plays with speed and precision. They must field ground balls hit in different directions and quickly throw the ball to first base to get the runner out.
Shortstops must smoothly field balls hit close to other bases because the distances between bases are shorter in softball than in baseball. This means they have less time to recover from mistakes.
Apart from physical skills like quick feet and fast hands, effective shortstops need good communication skills. They lead the infield, directing players on where to stand and coordinating with teammates like the catcher, second baseman, and pitcher.
Shortstops, like second basemen, are key in turning double plays. They catch throws at second base and swiftly throw the ball to first base, aiming to secure two outs in a single play.
5. Third Baseman
Positioned near third base, the third baseman faces rapid and powerful hits, particularly from right-handed batters aiming down the third base or left field line. Known as "the hot corner," this position demands quick reflexes and agility due to the speed at which balls are hit towards them.
Fielding these high-speed grounders, third basemen must swiftly throw the ball across the field to first base, making it one of the longest throws in softball. Despite the intense nature of plays at third base, players cannot solely play deep to gain more time, as they must also be prepared to handle lightly hit balls or bunts, a strategic play where the batter taps the ball while holding the bat stationary over the plate.
In softball, drag bunts are common, requiring third basemen to react swiftly to field the ball and make accurate throws to first base as runners attempt to sprint to the base. This position demands not only speed and agility but also quick decision-making skills to effectively handle a variety of plays and defensive situations.
8. Center Fielder
The center fielder is a key player among the trio of outfielders, who are stationed on the expansive grassy area stretching from the infield dirt to the perimeter of the playing field. Their primary duties include catching fly balls, handling ground balls, and making accurate throws to their infield teammates. Among these outfielders, the center fielder is typically the most adept, according to Chidester.
"Center fielders are known for their exceptional range and athleticism," Chidester explained. "They must be adept at judging angles and possess the speed necessary to quickly intercept fly balls."
Moreover, the center fielder often serves as the leader of the outfield, directing the positioning of the left and right fielders based on the current game conditions and the hitting tendencies of the batter. This strategic role requires the center fielder to have a deep understanding of the game and the ability to communicate effectively with their teammates.
9. Right Fielder
In softball, the right fielder is positioned in the outfield on the right side of the field, covering the area between second and first base. However, similar to baseball, softball has seen an increase in defensive shifts. These shifts involve players moving from their standard positions to strategic locations on the field to capitalize on the hitting tendencies of the batter.
For instance, Orchard mentioned that if there is data available on an opposing right-handed hitter, the defense might adjust accordingly. If the hitter has a propensity to hit to a certain area of the field, the right fielder might move to a position that is more advantageous for fielding the ball, potentially shifting further right or left, or playing deeper or shallower than usual. This strategic movement aims to increase the chances of
making an out and preventing the batter from getting a hit.
7. Left Fielder
Left fielders are often characterized by their speed and defensive prowess, and they are also expected to make significant offensive contributions. In softball, the left fielder's position does not require an exceptional throwing arm, as the distances for throws are generally not extensive.
The role of a left fielder demands strong outfield defense, necessitating quickness and exceptional fielding abilities. An outstanding outfielder with an adequate arm, the left fielder should possess good speed, though not necessarily lightning-fast. They are typically one of the team's top power hitters, with a strong offensive presence. The ideal physical attributes for left fielders include a robust and sturdy build combined with speed and agility, usually taller in stature, and a quick, well-built, and powerful physique.
ADVISE FROM TPM FASTPITCH COACHES
Beginner Pitching Instruction for Newbies from Lisa K. Raio -
Hey there, welcome to Get Hooked Community resource guide for newbies. As the Advanced Pitching Instruction Trainer and Owner at TPM Fastpitch, I'm thrilled to share my insights and personal advice with the beginners. I have years of experience working with pitchers of all levels and I believe that with the right mindset and dedication, anyone can become a successful pitcher. Below I’ve share some tips for beginner pitching instruction to help you get started. To learn more check our Ultimate Resource Guide for Newbies as your go to guide for everything fast pitch to help improve and take your skills to the next level. Reserve your copy today!
Pitching Basics by Lisa K
Setup and Delivery
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toe the rubber find a tall, balanced and relaxed position
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feet are shoulders width apart with either both on the rubber front and back or one foot on the rubber front with the stride foot behind the rubber
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hips and shoulders should be stacked evenly
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start with weight on the pitching load foot, shift weight back slightly with hips “sitting” over heels
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load foot down and drive forward towards the catcher
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while driving reach both arms forward and lift stride knee up
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allow hips and shoulders to open remaining stacked
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complete circle following a straight line to catcher.
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land and release the ball
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transfer weight into front leg
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stand tall & stay balanced throughout the pitch
Grip
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find the backwards letter "C"
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place index, middle and ring fingers across the seams with thumb opposite middle finger
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hold the ball firmly in fingers not in the palm of your hand
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stay begins tge ball
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create friction between the fingers and ball seams to create spin
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four seams rotating top to bottom creates top spin
Beginning of Pitch - Footwork - Load
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after the initial wind up and weight shift load the weight into the push foot
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lift heel and drive ball of foot straight down bend knee and hinge hip to fire
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push ball of foot down straight and spring forward toward catcher from the ground up tucking hip and lifting into stride.
Beginning of Pitch - Footwork - Stride & Plant
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after the initial wind up and weight shift load the weight into the push foot
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lift heel and drive ball of foot straight down bend knee and hinge hip to fire
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push ball of foot down straight and spring forward toward catcher from the ground up tucking hip and lifting into stride.
End of Pitch - Snap & Transfer
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after the stride and plant and the downswing is the release point
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keep hand behind the ball
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spin the ball off of the fingers and snap wrist
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after snap allow hand to follow straight towards the catcher completing the circle as you squeeze knees together transferring weight into a strong front side.
Beginner Hiting Instruction for Newbies from Ashlye H. Toure
"Hitting is all about timing and technique," says Ashlye Toure. As a beginner, it's important to focus on the fundamentals, such as grip, stance, and swing. As an advanced hitting instruction trainer and college recruiting advisor at TPM Fastpitch, I'm excited to share my insights and personal advice on hitting with newbies. Below I’ve shared some tips to beginner hitting instruction to help you get started. Our ultimate resource guide for newbies covers everything you need to know to develop these skills and become a better hitter. With the advice and tips from our guide, you can gain the confidence and knowledge to hit any pitch out of the park. Get your copy now.
Hitting Basics by Ashlye H
Stance & Setup in the Box
The hitter should find a balanced and relaxed position with the feet shoulder width apart and hips and shoulders stacked evenly. The hitter should hinge hips the back slightly, with hips sitting over the heels and a posture with the spine and chest angled slightly over the plate. Maintaining hinge and posture throughout the swing are extremely important for a successful swing.
Bat Grip
The hitter should hold the handle of the bat where the fingers meet the palm of the hand, or where the pads of the fingers are on the palm, and wrap the fingers around the handle. Door knocking knuckles will be somewhat aligned with each other. The hitter will set up the bat and hands near the back shoulder, with the bat angled slightly upwards, as if splitting the hitter’s helmet in half. The elbows of the hitter should remain relaxed, slightly angled away from each other.
Load and First Move
In the box the hitter can choose to start in a somewhat loaded position, or move into that position as the pitcher begins her motion. To load the lower half of the body the hitter will coil their pelvis inward towards the inside of the back hip, or turn inward with the pelvis and feel the weight load and stack over the inside of the back hip and heel. To load the upper half the hitter will allow the back elbow to move back, engaging the scapula muscle and feeling the back shoulder blade move closer to the spine. Or simply imagine shifting the back elbow back, as if elbowing something directly behind.
Stride to Launch
From the load position, the next movement is for the hitter to stride or step forward with their front foot while feeling the hips and shoulder continue to stay stacked and aligned. Front foot and hip should land to begin to rotate. It can be helpful to allow the front foot to land slightly open. As the foot lands the pelvis and belt buckle will begin to rotate open and unload while the chest and upper torso fight to stay closed, and facing the plate, thus removing the “slack” from the middle of the body and building tension in the core.
Sequence of Movement
At launch, and heel plant the hips upload and as the “slack” is being removed from the middle of the body the rear shoulder will work to line up with or face the back of the pitch and ball. The back elbow and wrist will work with the shoulder to line up with the back of the ball on plane and the barrel will work forward across the chest to connect with the back of the ball at the front of the hitter’s body. It is important that the front side and front leg is stable and works to push into the ground to help accelerate the “turn” and to also decelerate the hips right before the barrel connects with the ball. Key points: The hands and the rear shoulder will move connected early in the swing until the barrel works forward with rear shoulder working behind and thru the ball. The batter should NOT allow the shoulder to shift behind the hips, the hips unload before the shoulder, the hips unload into the landing. It is important to maintain a strong wrist position early in the swing to keep the barrel inside the wrist until the rear palm works to face up. Maintain the same general space between the elbows into contact.
Extension & Finish
The hitter should maintain grip of the bat in a palm up, palm down position while the momentum of the barrel pulls the arms into extension. The rear shoulder will stay behind and thru the ball into extension. The hitter’s head will work over the back shoulder, seeing the ball leave the bat from behind contact of the barrel and while maintaining a strong core. The arms will follow through as the bat continues on a smooth arc finishing upward or over the edge of the front shoulder.
Slapping Stance & Setup in the Box
The hitter should set up between the middle and the back of the batters box. It is important to check the distance from the inside line of the box to ensure the feet are not starting too close to the plate. In the stance the hitter’s feet can be even, with heels in alignment, or with the front foot slightly open. The hitters grip and set up of arms and upper half will be setup as you would to swing away, with chest and hips facing the plate.
Slapping Footwork
The hitter will begin movement by either 1. Drop stepping the front foot back towards the back foot, or 2. The hitter can simply begin movement by stepping from the back leg. Note: the batter is not permitted to have any part of their foot outside the lines of the box. The hitter’s back foot will cross over the front foot towards the inside and front lines of the box, as the crossover foot lands the batter should allow weight to land on the crossover foot, with minimal weight on the other foot. On landing the hitter should have alignment of foot, knee and hip of back side of body while upper torso will remain facing the plate.
Slapping Upper Body
As the hips open on landing and the upper torso stays in towards the plate the hitter will create stretch and resistance between the hips and upper torso. With weight mainly on the crossover step, the hitter will work the barrel being the ball, with the back shoulder facing the back of the ball. The hitter’s head should work over the back shoulder and behind the back of the ball as the barrel works into contact. The batter will maintain the palm up and palm down position through extension.
Cone Drill for Slapping Footwork
It is important while working that the athlete aims to continue crossover footwork towards the pitcher, rather than towards 1B, since slappers often tend to run before hitting.
Place cones inside the 1B line between 1B line and the pitcher.
The slapper should work to continue crossover steps while staying to the inside of the cones.
Step and Stop Slapping Frisbie Arm Angle Drill
Have the hitter place hands facing up on either side of the frisbie and hold frisbie as if holding the bat.
Have the hitter execute crossover step, upon landing the athlete will ensure the shoulders and upper torso are facing the plate.
Have the hitter pause on crossover landing and shift the arms to palm up, palm down position as the distance between elbows remains the same.
Step and Stop Slapping Drill for Balance
The hitter will execute the crossover step, upon landing the hitter will ensure that most of the weight has landed on the crossover step, lift the other foot off the ground completely and balance on the crossover step.
The hitter will maintain alignment of the knee, hip and upper torso while the chest is facing the plate. While balanced on the crossover foot, the athlete will hit the ball, stopping after contact. Progress to hitting the ball and following thru without stopping at contact while maintaining balance on the crossover foot.
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