Softball Coaches Manual
Softball Coaches Manual
COACHING
MANUAL
Page 1
SKILLS PER AGE GROUP
This is a list of skill the girls should be learning and constantly improving upon as they move through AYSA.
These skills should be touched upon in every practice.
15 and up
Continued improvement on previous skills. Pitchers are better developed as are hitters and fielders.
They should have and be continually building a better understanding of bunt coverage’s (for fast
pitch) and fielding situations such as getting the lead runner out.
Page 2
Throwing
I. GRIP
··Training Tip**
Draw a stripe on the ball with a black marker. (Figure 1) When we talk about the "stripe" on the ball, this is what we are referring to.
The player should grip the ball with two (3) fingers (unless it is a baseball, beginning grips should be 3 fingers), so that the ball is not in
the palm of the hand.
Grip across the seams (large horseshoe) of the ball if possible. The fingers will form a backward "C" around the ball with the middle of
the index finger on the stripe. (Figure 2)
The little finger will "ride" loosely on the ball.
Place the thumb under the ball; the thumb should be underneath the pointer finger.
Figure 1 Figure 2
-Coaching Tip** When explaining things to young players, talk in terms of "ball side" (throwing hand
side) and "glove side."
The throwing hand travels in a downward and back motion so that the thumb passes by
the thigh, keeping your hand on top of the ball, reaching a position where the palm is
facing away from the target above the shoulder ("fingers to the sky"). The back foot
begins to pivot and turn the body sideways.
The throwing arm is long and loose (elbow not locked); the elbow should be at the same
height or slightly higher than the shoulder and the hand is above the " head (figure 3A).
At this point the front foot has landed and established a firm front side.
-Coaching Tip** When teaching young players, use the phrase "thumb by the thigh, (2)elbow
high,(3)fingers to the sky, (4)wave bye-bye, (5) and release the back side"
As the weight transfer (from the back to the front) begins, the elbow leads the arm into
the release position above the head in line with the shoulder. The palm has begun to turn
forward and the elbow is slightly higher than the shoulder in a vertical line from the
elbow to the wrist. (Figure 3B) There should be a separation that remains even from the
head to the elbow all the way to the wrist.
The path of the arm circle, from the starting point to the release point, is on the "power
line" (straight to the target). For example, the throwing arm should not fall behind the
head or body. (Figure 3B)
As the ball is released, the fingers should pull down with force across the seams of the ball (intensity of grip across seams increases
during the pull down). (Figure 4A) The transfer and throw should be against the firm leg.
**Coaching Tip** The thumb leads the hand down toward the ground on release.
Follow-through: The hand follows through down and toward the glove-side (opposite) knee. (Figure 4B) The back leg should continue
following through (releasing the back side)
The goal at release is to create complete vertical backspin on the ball.
The glove-side (non-throwing) arm extends toward the target. The glove-side (non-throwing) shoulder stays on the power line to the
target as weight transfer and release occur. (Figure 4C)
Keep the glove hand close to the body through the release and follow-through. (Figure 4B)
Establish a strong throwing-hand side base by opening instep of the throwing side foot slightly toward the target (45 degrees). This is
the pivot foot. The pivot foot turns out toward the target to begin the throwing sequence. (Figure 5)
The glove hand side foot should land at a 45 degree angle when transfer is beginning to occur.
Weight should be balanced "athletically" on the balls of the feet. (Figure 5)
Lower body transfer begins as the front (glove side) foot steps on line to the target, with the arm in the "fingers to the sky" position
(Figure 6)
Weight transfer begins as the glove side arm "pulls" down and into the chest as the throwing arm comes forward into release
position. (Figure 6)
Lower body weight transfer completes as the ball is released and follow through occurs. The ball side leg (back leg) continues forward
at a natural pace (a drag of the foot is recommended). (Figure 7)
1.
2.
3.
4.
1. From the knee drill position (see 1. above). Start arm circle by bringing thumb past thigh to a point where the palm faces away from the
target.
2. The elbow leads arm forward into release position.
3. Release same as described above.
1. Player turns sideways to target. glove shoulder, hip and knee pointing toward target.
2. Weight evenly distributed on the balls of the feet.
3. Hands relaxed at sides.
4. Bring both arm up into "fingers to the sky" position (players should see the backs of both palms in this position)
5. As arms move, shift weight slightly to the inside of the ball side (back) foot.
6. Elbow leads throwing arm forward into release position. At the same time transfer lower body weight against a firm front side (not locked).
7. Ball release occurs as described above. Follow through with hand down and to the glove side (opposite) knee.
8. Drag ball side foot toward target on follow through. (Shoe laces to the ground)
"Coaching Tips** Use smaller balls with younger kids; make sure they have a ball they can handle. Draw or tape a stripe on the ball; this provides great
visual feedback on spin. Use dry mechanics, shadow throws, be very deliberate (slow motion repetition).
Kids need to have a throwing program that they do every day (for purposes of loosening up and for practicing and improving their throwing
skills). Every practice must include a selection of throwing and catching drills. Throwing is as important as hitting, pitching, etc. Treat it as
such!
**Training Tip"" Throwing drills should be done with a striped ball.
**Coaching Tips**Tell your players that the ball will go where their hand (or more specifically, the "dot") is pointing when they let go of it. "Flipping" the
wrist means more to a kid than "snapping" the wrist. Kids snap their fingers. they "flip" their wrists.
1. Players get in the basic infield positions (first, second and third base,
shortstop, catcher), but not necessarily at regular distance.
2. Catcher starts by throwing the ball to the second base. Second base
throws to third base.
3. Third base throws to first base.
4. First base throws to shortstop.
5. Shortstop throws to catcher. This makes the ball travel in a "star" pattern.
6. To make this more game-like, time how quickly your infielders can make a
star VS. your outfielders, and keep track of these times on a board at
practice.
7. Also you can add base runners (with helmets) and have them run around
the bases before the players can complete the star. C Page 4
Catching a Thrown Ball
Like hitting, the skill of catching a thrown ball is difficult for a young player to perform because (1) it requires good hand-eye coordination, and (2) most
young players are afraid of the ball.
IIf your players are struggling playing catch with each other, have them take their gloves off and try using bigger balls like volleyballs, soccer balls, beach
balls, and even lightweight basketballs. Using a bigger ball will make it easier for your players to focus on the ball, which really helps with their hand-eye
coordination. Also, a bigger ball will help your players use both hands when they catch the ball. With their gloves off, it will be nearly impossible for them
to catch the ball with just one hand.
When teaching young players how to catch a thrown ball focus on the following:
Ready Position: "Athletic" ready position - knees slightly bent, weight on balls of the feet, shoulders, hips and feet are square to the ball.
Hands start in "neutral" position - approximately waist high, thumbs up, palms facing each other Receive ball with hands in front of the body,
palms facing the ball.
Catch ball in the middle of the body.
When the ball is above the waist, catch the ball with fingers toward the sky: "High to the Sky."
When the ball is below the waist, catch the ball with fingers toward the ground: "Down to the Ground."
Coach, you need to remember that young players are so afraid of getting hit by the ball that they will try to avoid it rather than try to catch it. This is why
your players will move their heads, and sometimes their entire body, as they try to catch the ball. Your challenge is to remove the fear of the ball by using
safety balls, and by teaching your players the proper way to catch a thrown ball. That way you won't have to say "Don't be afraid of the balf" over and
over.
Work with all of your players on the following Fly Ball Basics.
Line your throwing side up with the ball
Get your glove up in-line with the ball with your fingers pointing to the sky. Elbows are bent
and relaxed (do not extend arms straight to catch ball.
Catch the ball in front of your head off the throwing side of the body. (Figure 1) Catch the
ball with one hand (glove), covering the ball in your glove with your bare hand.
Position glove close to top of head on throwing shoulder.
When catching a ball in the sun, try to adjust angle to play ball out of the sun. Use either the
glove or the throwing hand to shield the sun while tracking the ball. Figure 9
**Coaching Tip** Start young kids with very soft and light balls to help eliminate their fear of the ball. For example, use volleyball to teach catching with
two hands with palms facing away from body and fingers up.
1. Self Toss
2. Football Toss
3. Roof Toss
Page 5
Drill Name: Football Toss
Drill Focus: Judgment
Players keep their gloves on and line up in two lines ready to go out for a pass.
Instead of using softballs, you will throw footballs to your players.
Have one player at a time from each line "go out for a pass" while you throw them the football and they catch it with their glove and their bare
hand.
Have your players try this drill at home with a whiffle ball or a tennis ball so it won't damage the roof.
Your players toss the ball up on the roof and practice catching it when it rolls down and falls off.
This drill really helps their judgment and catching skills.
"Athletic" Ready Position: Knees slightly bent, weight on the balls of the feet, with balance slightly forward. The shoulders, hips and feet
are square to the bail. Bend at the knees, not at the waist, to lower the body into good fielding position. (Figure 10)
Let the arms hang in a relaxed position, fingers down. Hands start in "neutral" position - approximately waist high, thumbs up, palms
facing each other. (Figure 10)
Approach the bail like an airplane. Try to get your players to imagine that they are airplanes coming in for a landing when they approach
a ground ball. This wiil help them get lower to the ground the closer the bail gets to them, instead of approaching the bail like a
helicopter and plopping down on top of it at the last minute. If they approach it like a helicopter they will either miss the ball completely
or field it behind them.
Just prior to gathering the ball into the glove, make sure the tips of the glove are touching the ground (you never want to have to go
down for the bail at the last minute - it's quicker to have the glove close to the ground in anticipation of fielding the ball). (Figure 11)
Field the ball with hands in front of the body, palms facing the ball, elbows in front of the knees, elbows slightly bent. (Figure 2) Field
ball on the glove hand side of the body
Gather the ball using "soft" hands. Field the bail with your hands, not with the glove. (Figure 12)
Gather the bail through the middle of your body to the throwing side as you move your feet to a throwing position, stepping toward the
target. (Figure 13)
Have your players spread out around the infield facing home plate-no gloves!
Now, using only whiffle balls, randomly roll grounders out to your players. Be sure not to go in any particular order so your players have to
practice always being ready.
To ensure that you spend more time fielding grounders instead of chasing balls, have extra whiffle balls (use a plastic five gallon paint bucket)
and have your players roll the ball back into you after they field them.
Player stands six to 10 feet from a wall and throws a ball near the bottom of the wall.
As the ball bounces off the wall. the player fields the ground ball and throws it at the bottom of the wall again.
Two players face each other about six feet apart in ground ball fielding position.
They try to throw the ball on the ground through each others legs.
Have them keep points: one point each time the ball goes between someone’s legs, and the first one to five wins.
Page 6
Hitting
If you are coaching t-ball, hitting won't be quite as difficult as it will be if your team is hitting off "live" pitching. With live pitching, hand-eye coordination
and timing come in to play, as does the fear of being hit by a pitched ball. If your players are afraid of getting hit by the ball, use safety balls or tennis
balls in your practices to remove fear of the ball.
ABOUT BATS
Even though it is extremely important that your players have a solid, fundamentally sound swing, it is just as important that they use the proper size and
weight bat. Therefore, it is important to go over some bat basics.
There are two types of bats: a Barrel Bat and a Bottle Bat. A Barrel Bat is the shape of a traditional baseball bat, while a Bottle Bat is the more traditional
softball bat. While both types are used by elite level softball players, your players will probably have more success with a bottle bat because it has an
enlarged hitting area.
In addition to knowing the different types of bats, it's a good idea for you to become familiar with the various parts of the bat:
1. Knob: The knob is designed to help keep a player's hands from slipping off the end of the bat. When players are told to "choke up" it refers to
moving their hands further away from the knob.
2. Handle: Where the players' hands go. That's why it's called the handle.
3. Barrel: The "fat" part of the bat. The barrel is the part of the bat actually designed to hit the ball. It's size will vary depending on the type of bat
used.
4. Sweet Spot: The ideal part of the barrel for hilling the ball. While each bat has a "scientific" sweet spot, it is usually a few inches from the end of the
bat.
5. End: Just what it says, the end of the bat. It isn't designed for hitting the ball, but occasionally your players will swing too early and hit the ball off
the end of the bat. As you can imagine, when this happens the ball doesn't go very far.
Use a bat that's light enough for the player to easily control.
A. Grip:
Hold the bat as you would grip an axe handle. (Figure 14)
Line up door-knocking knuckles or "split." (Figure 15 & 16) Adjust slightly for whatever is comfortable for the player.
Hands and wrist are relaxed in the stance; the grip on the ball will tighten slightly as the swing starts.
Like you would grip an axe handle, and use the same grip on your bat. (Figure 16) Pretend you are pounding a stake into the ground from
over head.
Pretend you are pounding a nail with a hammer.
Hold a bat horizontally out in from of you and pretend you are "shaking hands" with the bat. (Figure 4b)
B. Stance:
Coaching Point: The hand position in the stance must allow the hitter to move to a strong hitting position when the front foot reaches toe touch (slide). The
ability to reach this position on time and with minimal movement is essential
Page 7
C. Lower Body Position:
The bottom hand should be held at least at the top of the strike zone. Better to have hands too high than too low.
Bat held at or inside of back shoulder
Bat held at 45 degree angle
Elbows down but in a strong throwing position (Figure 20).
> Drill: With a short, light bat, have the hitter hold the bat with their top hand only and hit one-handed. The hitter will automatically bring the
top hand elbow down into the strongest natural position. (Figure 21)
Slight weight shift to inside of back leg (knee inside of fee) (Figure 22)
Movement can be back or down into back leg
Hands move to strong "throwing" position (ex. skipping rock)
Hand movement slow and continuous (on time with the pitcher)
Hand stay even or slightly inside of front elbow
No twisting of upper body
Page 8
III. STRIDE
1. Stride concludes at toe touch. but can vary (Early stride. No Stride. Stride on heel)
2. Weight lands on inside of front foot.
3. Front foot down early VS. late (recognizes and react)
4. Hips and Shoulders remain square to the plate (Figure 23)
5. Move to a strong hitting position
6. Equal bend in the knees
7. Front foot at 45 degree angle
8. Hands end up in a strong throwing position
9. Hands even or slightly inside of lead elbow.
10. Bat angle slightly back towards head
11. Back elbow slightly elevated to create space between back elbow and hip
IV. SWING
Definition: Rotational movement that takes the bat from launching position to contact
1. Weight shifting into front side initiates rotation Just prior to or at heel plant) (Figure 24)
2. Back elbow falls into "slot'"
3. Hips and hands work together (skipping a rock) (Figure 25)
4. Hands stay inside of ball to bat lag position (knob pointed towards pitcher-barrel pointed towards catcher).
5. Lead with front elbow (Figure 26)
6. Bat head on plane and ready to release forces.
7. Hands in front of center of gravity (belly button) (Figure 26)
8. Contact: position that allows you to release the bat with the most force:
Page 9
V. Finish
Use funnel approach (broad to narrow thoughts going from dugout to box): Dugout: Gather information
about pitcher. Situation, etc. What am I going to be called upon to execute (ex. bunt, slap etc.).
o On Deck Circle: Time the pitcher. Positive self-talk.
o Batter's Box: See the ball - hit the ball!
Relaxation: Control breathing (i.e. deep breath as hitter steps into box).
Positive thoughts (focus on "what I want to do" rather than "what I don't want to do"). Coach needs to
know what verbal cues work for individual hitters.
Avoid too much coaching just before an at-bat or between pitches.
Challenge for coaches and hitters is dealing with the 7 out of 10 "failures" at the plate. Keep a "well-hit"
average, as opposed to batting average.
Evaluate at-bat on something other than outcome ("did you see the pitch?" "were you relaxed and in
control?" etc.). Focus on having good at-bats.
Batting practice is the time for the coach to give hitters confidence, make them feel good about their performance. Confidence is big key -
preparation builds confidence.
Visualize success - encourage hitters to keep a VCR tape in their head to play back good at-bats in their minds.
Hitting Drills
Three drills that will help your players improve their hitting skills are:
1. Throwing Drill
2. One Hand Drill
3. Front Toss Drill
Establish your hitting stance with a ball in your top hand (right hand for right-handed hitters and left hand for left handed hitters)
Perform a throwing motion into a net and pretend you are trying to a skip a rock on water
Place the tee (even with your stride foot at toe touch for top hand and slightly behind toe touch for bottom hand) 2c Have the player use a small
bat to begin with and eventually use their regular bat
Player executes with proper mechanics the entire swing and emphasizes proper hand position at contact and hitting through a long zone. Make
sure the hitter stays inside the ball on all swings
Repeat the drill with the top hand and bottom hand
Feeder stands behind a screen approx. 10-15 ft away in front of the hitter
Feeder tosses the ball underhanded giving the hitter a timing mechanism. Swing hand back as you step forward to throw. When the feeders
hand goes back, the hitter makes their negative move to prepare to hit.
Coach releases the ball and the hitter executes a proper swing. (You can use small balls; whiffle balls, tennis balls, or regular softballs. Coach
should be able to move the ball in different parts of the strike zone to simulate a rich pitch.
Great drill to work on timing of the swing -Coaching Pt: Make sure the hitter is starting the negative move on time and getting the front down
soon enough prior to the release.
Page 10
Fast Pitch Pitching
Fast pitch pitching - the one skill above all others that we tend to place the most emphasis on. Because the pitcher is so crucial to the flow of the
game and ultimately a team's success. We put an unfair amount of pressure on the pitcher.
For the most part, we recognize that skills like catching, throwing, and even hitting take a few years to develop. So we are relatively patient as
they do develop. Yet when it comes to pitching, patience goes out the window. We expect kids who maybe have never even pitched
before to master the skill to the point of throwing strikes in a matter of weeks. After all, your first game is only days away, right?
Well Coach, pitching is not easy. First of all, it is an extremely difficult skill to learn. Secondly, what really makes pitching so hard is the number
of times the child is asked to perform the skill successfully. The pitcher touches the ball on every play of every game. We expect the pitcher to
perform successfully over 80% of the time. That is a tall order for anyone to fill.
The following are some points to keep in mind when working with your pitcher. These tips will help shorten their development time and increase
their rate of success.
¾ Keep it Simple. While this has been said over and over about all the skills of softball, keeping pitching simple is almost more important than
anything. If you can simplify the learning process, the easier it will be for your pitcher to remember what they are supposed to do. Break the pitching
motion into understandable parts, and keep it simple!
¾ Be Patient. Learning takes time and you have to allow pitchers lime to develop their skills. If you get angry or frustrated your pitcher won't learn faster.
In fact, it will only scare them, make them tense, and hinder their development. Before talking to your pitcher take a deep breath and count to 10. The key is
for you to be relaxed and calm when working with your pitcher.
¾ Be Confident. If you are positive with your pitchers and let them know you can see their improvement, they will have more confidence in themselves and their
abilities. They will work hard for your approval and your positive feedback. Coach, trust that your pitchers will "get it." Every great pitcher started out
throwing balls behind the batter and over the backstop-so just be patient and be confident.
a.
I, Grip
The fingers should be on or across the seams on the ball to form the grip. Just like overhand throw grip
4 seam grip or 2 seam grip depending upon objectives.
¾ 4 seam grip iends itself to straighter movement or a straight line. (Figure 31)
¾ > 2 seam grip lends itself to more variation off that line. (Figure 32)
A 4 seam grip is good for beginners. However, the key is a comfortable grip. Hand shapes and sizes are different;
therefore, grip comfort varies based on hand size and shape.
The thumb and middle finger are the strongest digits on the hand. They establish the initial line of force for the
pitch.
When forming the grip across the seams (2 or 4 seams) the seam should fit into the 1 st groove of the middle
finger for maximum snap at release. (Figure 33)
For a proper grip hold the ball in the fingers, not the palm of the hand.
Your pitcher should never experience any pain when throwing a pitch.
II. Stance
Begin with two feet touching the pitching rubber (ASA rules). This does not mean the middle of both feet needs to be in the middle of the
rubber. It simply means that any part of each foot must touch the rubber. (Figure 34) Teach your pitchers to begin with their throwing foot
forward just like they do when they throw overhand.
Start with both hands relaxed and down in front of the body, with the ball in the glove.
The feet should be balanced and approximately shoulder width apart. (Figure 35)
The ball of the pitching hand foot should be over the front of the rubber.
The toe of the back foot should be pushed against the back of the rubber.
Beginners should make every attempt to learn to pitch from the center of the rubber (the line of force at its most central point), with both feet
pointed toward home plate.
The pitcher should take the signal from the catcher with their weight on the front foot, which allows the transfer of weight to the back foot.
While the weight is on the front the hands should come together and the pitcher must pause to comply with the pitching rules. The weight will
transfer to the back foot during this move. (Figure 36)
The rules also dictate that the front foot must remain in contact with the rubber during the transfer of weight.
a) To start the arm motion push, the glove with the ball being gripped by the throwing hand, down and slightly back on the throwing side of the
body. This will enhance the pivot of the throwing side foot.
b) The shoulders should follow the glove down and back turning slightly to also enhance the pivot. Weight should transfer back to the inside of
throwing side foot. (Figure 37)
c) The glove serves as a guide to the arm so it can stay on one of two lines of force
The first line of force (LOF1) is the line that is created by the completion of the pivot when the front foot lands. That line is created by drawing a
line from the front of the back foot to the target. The second line of force (LOF2) is the line drawn from the release point to the target. 80th lines
will be close to parallel. LOF2 will be slightly outside LOF1, but thy will both meet at the target.
d) Ideally, we want to start the arm swing forward as the pivot foot begins to turn and our body begins to "open" to the target. As our arm begins to
move forward we want to keep the ball in our glove as long as "naturally" possible. This will hide the ball as long as possible to the hitter.
e) When the front foot lands (at around a 45 degree angle), the arm has completed a circle like motion over the top on the throwing side of our
body. The elbow and wrist have led us up and over. Our arm position should be close to the parallel to the ground and our palm should be faced
slightly away from our body pointed the same was as our chest. Our glove hand should also be parallel with the glove pointed at the target,
palm also facing away. Our shoulders should be on LOF2 creating a ball path in front of our hips, knees and chin. Our hips, knees, and chin
should be of LOF1. (Figure 38a and 38b)
IV. Legs
a) The instep of the back foot initiates the drive forward for transfer of weight from the back foot (leg) toward the front foot (leg). (Figure 39)
b) The front knee (stride leg) lands flexed, but firms up as the weight transfers from the back leg to the front leg. (Figure 40)
c) The hips should finish square to the plate after releasing the ball, with the follow through into a good fielding position.
d) The shoulders and upper body finish tall with the shoulders finishing square with plate. (Figure 41)
V. Arms· Downswing
On the downswing, maintain a long (not locked) lever (extension) on the downward
path. (Figure 39)
A cocked wrist on approach to the release point allows for a maximum wrist snap.(Figure 39)
The wrist snap and release of the ball occurs between 7:00 and 5:00 (pitcher is the
clock). (Figure 42)
The ball rolls off the middle finger (LOF).
The hand and arm finish out and up (longer lever), remaining loose and relaxed.
The follow-through continues in direction of the ball on the LOF.
Short-arming (tight "VO with elbow) decreases the length of the lever (arm) and creates
tension, therefore decreasing speed.
When the arm circle takes away from the path of a perfect circle, or, leads a different
direction (away from LOF), it will detract from solid fundamentals and adversely affect
the pitch
a. The pitcher releases the ball with their hand facing the catcher (imagine there is a dot in the
middle of the hand, and as the pitcher releases the ball the dot on will face the catcher).
b. The wrist snap should produce 6-12 or 5-11 :00 spin - determined by hand size and
flexibility. (figure 43a)
c. Relaxed shoulders - meaning they will be slightly rolled forward (slumping) which will
facilitate a smooth transition from snap to release to follow through. (figure 43b)
NOTE: It is very important to teach your pitchers that the ball will go where their hand is pointing when they let go of it. While it sounds
simple, it's the key to your pitcher's control. If they can learn this simple principle they can make adjustments immediately following a bad
pitch:
If the pitch is too high, they should let go of the ball sooner.
If the pitch is too low, they should hold on to the ball longer.
Most pitches will go high at first and the pitcher's natural reaction will be to throw slower. Instead, just teach your pitcher to Ulet go sooner,
don't pitch slower'"
Summary
The simple wording pitching summary, that all of your pitchers should know and be able to repeat is:
1. Knee rolls
2. Rhythm Snaps
3. Line Pitching
1. Players stand sideways to each other with the glove shoulder closest to their partner.
2. Have the pitcher angle their shoulders at about a 30 degree angle.
3. Pitcher is on knee with glove hand resting on a firm glove of the ball side thigh. Cock the wrist back and snap it forward releasing the ball in a roll
towards the target. The wrist through will only be as far forward as the wrist was cocked back. Repeat 10-20 times.
Figure 45
Page 13
Figure 46
Speed isn't a slow pitch pitcher's focus-throwing hittable pitches is. The objective in slow pitch is not to strike people out - it is to throw hittable pitches.
Once a slow pitch pitcher learns how to pitch with the proper arc on the ball and with some accuracy, they can learn how to throw' pitches that batters will hit
to certain fielders.
The key to a pitcher's control is to feel connected to the target (home plate). Help your pitcher get that connection to home plate by having them imagine
there is a line connecting them directly to the catcher. In fact. actually make a line on the field. Draw one in the dirt, or have your pitcher pitch on the foul
line. You might want to take the field liner and actually make a chalk line for your pitcher from the pitchers mound to home plate. This will greatly improve
their control and their ability to feel connected to the target.
Slow Pitch Pitching Drills Two drills to help your players improve their slow pitch pitching skills are:
1. Ladder
2. Fence or Clothesline
1. Have your pitcher and your catcher get pitching distance apart from each other and have either a clothesline or a fence in between them.
2. Have your pitcher try to pitch strikes over the clothesline or fence.
3. To help challenge your pitcher, place a batter in the batter's box.
Page 14
Catching
Stance/setup
Signal stance
Receiving stance
Receiving
Target
Framing
Blocking
Body position
Force plays
Tag plays
nd
To 2 base
To 3rd base
Pickoffs
Bunts
First Base (1 B)--- The first base position is one of the busiest defensive positions in softball. Thus, it involves more than being able to catch and hold a thrown
ball. Either in a direct or assisting role, the first baseman is involved with almost every play. They must know when and how to throw the ball, how to back-up
throws to home plate, how to take a relay from the outfield, when to hold the runner on first base, and so on ..
Qualities Include:
Second Base (2B)-Second base is a pivot position for double plays. A second baseman should be able to shift their feet quickly and throw accurately.
The second baseman should be able to charge slowly hit ground balls and snap throws to first base. They will also be called upon to back-up their
teammates and take relay throws from the outfielders. In addition, they will coordinate with the shortstop as to who will cover second base on a steal attempt.
Qualities Include:
Third Base (3B)-Keeper of the infield's "hot corner." Must be able to handle everything from sharply hit line drives or onehop shots to slowly rolling bunts.
The third baseman's most important physical asset is their ability to field and throw to first base in one motion. They must also stay mentally in the game to
be able to handle every situation.
Qualities Include:
Shortstop (SS) - Because the shortstop must cover so much area and participate in a wide variety of plays, shortstop is considered the most demanding
infield position. Without hesitation, the shortstop must react to any situation - run back quickly for pop flies, charge slowly hit grounders, make strong, and
make accurate throws to first base from deep in the hole. The shortstop will also work with the second baseman on turning double plays and with the
outfielders on relay throws.
Qualities Include:
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Outfielders - The outfielders must always be alert as to what to do with the ball, should the ball come to them. They should be mindful of game situations
at all times. Outfielders should have strong throwing arms. They should keep the trajectory of the throw low to the ground. Outfielders should be taught to
call for balls. They should also be taught to block ground balls to make sure the ball doesn't get through. As the last line of defense, outfielders should be
taught to back up their teammates. The following are some of the individual qualities of the outfield positions:
Good leadership abilities Very good quickness Strong and accurate arm
Very vocal, not afraid to talk to teammates Good decision-making abilities
Ability to catch ball on the run
Very good speed
Good speed and endurance for constantly backing up first base Good glove for sharply hit balls that tend to tail off in the outfield Accurate arm with quick
release
Usually have the weakest arm of all the outfielders
Pitcher (P)-A pitcher has an important role as a defensive infielder. Many games have been won through the pitcher's fielding ability as well as his/her pitching
talent. To be successful, a pitcher must back up plays and cover bases when necessary.
Qualities Include:
Catcher (C) - The catcher is the leader of the team, and as such, should not be afraid to be vocal and to take charge. The catcher has to be aware of game
situations at all times, and communicate plays and strategies to the infielders. The catcher must be able to handle pitchers, and keep the game under control.
Qualities Include:
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Slow Pitch Softball Positions
The diagram below shows you the different positions involved in slow pitch softball and where they play. Together these positions are called "team
defense." We will discuss team defensive concepts in greater detail later in this chapter under "Basic Slow Pitch Defensive Coverage’s."
First Base (1 B)-The first base position is one of the busiest defensive positions in softball. Thus, it involves more than being able to catch and hold a
thrown ball. Either in a direct or assisting role, the first baseman is involved with almost every play. They must know when and how to throw the ball, how
to back-up throws to home plate, how to take a relay from the outfield, when to hold the runner on first base, and so on. They should catch the ball with
both hands, when possible.
Qualities Include:
Second Base (2B)-Second base is a pivot position for double plays. A second baseman should be able to shift their feet quickly and throw accurately.
The second baseman should be able to charge slowly hit ground balls and snap throws to first base. They will also be called upon to back-up their
teammates and take relay throws from the outfielders.
Qualities Include:
Third Base (3B)-Keeper of the infield's "hot corner." Must be able to handle everything from sharply hit line drives to onehop shots. The third baseman's
most important physical asset is their ability to field and throw to first base in one motion. They must also stay mentally in the game, and be aware of
how to handle all possible situations.
Qualities Include:
Shortstop (SS) - Because the shortstop must cover so much area and participate in a wide variety of plays, shortstop is considered the most demanding
infield position. Without hesitation, the shortstop must react to any situation - run back quickly for pop flies, charge slowly hit grounders, make strong, and
make accurate throws to first base from deep in the hole. The shortstop will also work with the second baseman on turning double plays and with the
outfielders on relay throws.
Qualities Include:
Good glove
Good range to their left and right Good sense about the game
Recovers quickly from mistakes
Usually the best infielder
Outfielders - The outfielders must always be alert as to what to do with the ball, should the ball come to them. They should be mindful of game situations
at all times. Outfielders should have strong throwing arms. They should keep the trajectory of the throw low to the ground. Outfielders should be taught to
call for fly balls. They should also be taught to block ground balls to make sure the ball doesn't get through. As the last line of defense, outfielders should
be taught to back up their teammates. The following are some of the individual qualities of the outfield positions:
Great quickness
Strong arm
Very accurate arm
Good leadership abilities Good ability to judge the ball
Pitcher (P)-A pitcher has an important role as a defensive infielder. Many games have been won through the pitcher's fielding ability as well as his/her pitching
talent. To be successful, a pitcher must back up plays and cover bases when necessary.
Qualities Include:
Catcher (C) - The catcher is the leader of the team, and as such, should not be afraid to be vocal and to take charge. The catcher has to be aware of game
situations at all times, and communicate plays and strategies to the infielders. The catcher must be able to handle pitchers, and keep the game under control.
Qualities Include:
There are certain principles your team should follow on defense. If your team can understand these principles they will have a much easier time figuring out
where they should go when the ball is hit.
The Magnet Concept: The easiest way to explain basic defensive coverage is to think of the ball as a magnet and your players as metal pieces attracted
to the magnet. While this concept doesn't apply to every player on the field, it does work for the players who move the most-the players in the middle of
the field: the shortstop, second base player, centerfielder, leftfielder, and right fielder.
Let's look at the following diagram of a ball hit into right-center field and see how this magnet principle works (the same principle applies when the ball is
hit to left field):
1. We can see in this example that the ball (the magnet) is hit to right-center field.
2. The ball (magnet) attracts the centerfielder and the right fielder to it. The first one to the ball will pick it up and make the play.
3. Meanwhile, the magnet concept pulls the second base player out toward the ball in case he or she is needed to help get the ball back into the
infield. (This will depend on how far the ball is hit past the outfielders.)
4. The magnet also pulls the shortstop to cover second base in case the batter, who hit the ball, tries to run to second base. (The shortstop must
cover second base because the second base player has been drawn out into the outfield toward the ball.)
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Basic Slow Pitch Defensive Coverage’s
Defensive coverage’s refer to knowing where everyone on your team should go when the ball is hit into the outfield. This section discusses some simple, easy--
understand concepts and defensive coverage’s.
There are certain principles your team should follow on defense. If your team can understand these principles they will have a much easier time figuring
our where they should go when the ball is hit.
The Magnet Concept: The easiest way to explain basic defensive coverage is to think of the ball as a magnet and your players as metal pieces attracted
to the magnet. While this concept doesn't apply to every player on the field, it does work for the players who move the most-players in the middle of the
field: the shortstop, second base player, centerfielder, left centerfielder, and right fielder.
Let's look at the following diagram of a ball hit into right-center field and see how this magnet principle works (the same principle applies when the ball is hit to
left field):
1. We can see in this example that the ball (the magnet) is hit to right-center field.
2. The ball (magnet) attracts the centerfielder and the right fielder. The first one to the ball will pick it up and make the play.
3. The left centerfielder will move slightly toward the ball in case he or she needs to make a play.
4. Meanwhile, the magnet concept pulls the second base player out toward the ball in case he or she is needed to help get the ball back into the infield.
(This will depend on how far the ball is hit past the outfielders.)
5. The magnet also pulls the shortstop to cover second base in case the batter, who hit the ball, tries to run to second base. (The shortstop must cover
second base because the second base player has been drawn out into the outfield toward the ball)
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PRACTICE PLAN
FAST PITCH-Early Season
1Omin Warm Up
-run, stretch, loosen arms
20min Pair Bears, Line Drill (infield), Pop Ups (outfield), Catchers work on blocking
30min Hitting
-review stance, hands
-dry cuts
-soft toss (2 stations, 1st and 3rd, a batter on deck, everyone else fields)
• Pitchers and catchers need to throw at every practice. Whether it’s before, after, or during practice. A
minimum of 20 minutes.
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PRACTICE PLAN
FAST PITCH-Early Season
10min Warm Up: run, stretch, loosen arms
12min 2 Line Ground Balls-infield (roll the ball then hit grounders)
Partner Drop Steps-outfield
20min Relays
-divide the team up into 3 or 4 teams and have them get into a line (each girl
Should be about base distance apart). Have the girls relay the ball back and forth.
Making good throws-not allowed to over throw the ball and skip a player-each
Player has to make a good throw. Maybe have them race at the end-having the
First team to finish sit down.
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PRACTICE PLAN
FAST PITCH-Mid Season
10min Warm Up: run, stretch, throw
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PRACTICE PLAN
FAST PITCH-Mid/End Season
1Omin Warm Up
-run, stretch, loosen arms (remember the patriot drill)
20min Infield: line drills (10min), full infield-random grounders, bunts, etc (10min)
Outfield: lined up on the foul line-tossing the ball over the shoulder-practice
Each side (10min), two lines in the outfield-hit the ball in between-
call the ball! And back each other up!
15min Bunting
-practice stance
-divide to four groups, 1 group at each base, four people to front toss to
each group, get the bunt down on the ground then run to the next base-
leave your bat
20min Hitting
-have two stations (if you have to pitchers on your team-have them pitch
The stations-one station at 1st, one at 3rd) everyone field balls
5min Conditioning
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PRACTICE PLAN
FAST PITCH-End Season
10min Warm Up
-run, stretch, loosen arms
10min Bunting
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PRACTICE PLAN
SLOW PITCH-Early Season
10min Warm Up
-run, stretch, loosen arms
30min Hitting
-review stance, hands
-dry cuts (line knuckles up, hands by head, smooth swing, use hips)
-soft toss (2 stations, one batter hitting at each station at 1st and 3rd, a
batter on deck, everyone else fields)
5min Conditioning
-game
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PRACTICE PLAN
SLOW PITCH-Early Season
10min Warm Up
-run, stretch, loosen arms
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PRACTICE PLAN
SLOW PITCH-Mid Season
10min Warm Up
-run, stretch, loosen arms
30min Step-hips-swing
Balance drill
-then partner up and hit soft toss
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PRACTICE PLAN
SLOW PITCH Mid/End Season
10min Warm Up
-run, stretch, loosen arms (remember the patriot drill)
20min Hitting
-3 stations: one soft toss, one with the main pitcher throwing to batters,
One fielding
30min Team Scrimmage: (keep same three teams) one team hits at a time, the other
Team fields in normal positions (may have to field a position that isn’t
Their normal position). To have things move along a little faster-start
The batters with a pitch count, such as 2-2.
Have one of the pitchers throw to batters to get practice
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PRACTICE PLAN
SLOW PITCH End Season
10min Warm Up
-run, stretch, loosen arms
30min Hitting/Defense
-have two girls hitting (one at 1st base and the other at 3rd) with the rest of the
Team fielding the balls-make it a game-points for who catches the most!
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Hitting Drills
Side toss.
Balls are tossed to hitter from an angle slightly to the side of the hitter .Be sure toss is out in front of the plate. This drill allows
hitter to work on mechanics and timing.
Two color side toss.
Same as side toss except that two different color balls are used. Tosser calls out which color ball is to be hit. Tosser can also not
call a color which tells hitter to "take" the pitch. Be sure toss is out in front of the plate. This adds decision making to the drill. Two
balls of the same color can be used, Tosser calls top or bottom ball.
Fastball tennis ball bounce.
Side toss with a bounce. Hit the ball on the rise. Ball should have some tempo on it. Forces adjustments in timing.
Change up tennis ball bounce.
Same as 5 except hit ball on fall. Ball should bounce, reach its highest point and then the hitter hits the ball after if falls back into
hitting zone.
Reverse Tennis ball bounce.
Ball is bounced from behind. Hitter triggers on sound of bounce, looking forward, hits the backside of the ball as it goes through
the hitting zone.
Little balls/little bats.
Same as side toss except we add the variable of smaller balls and/or smaller bats. Adds difficulty to the drill while still allowing the
hitter to work on the full swing. (Tennis balls, plastic golf balls, dowels, small bats, hitting stick)
Drop ball.
The ball is dropped into the hitting zone from above. Be sure ball is dropped out in front of plate. The hitter works on full swing. As
the players become accustomed to this drill do not let them look up as the ball is dropped, they must pick ball up as it enters the
hitting zone.
Two color drop ball.
Same as drop ball except two different color balls are used. Adds decision making to drill.
Reverse hitting.
The ball is tossed from behind the hitter (catchers position). Hitter keeps head forward as if looking at the pitcher. Pick ball up with
peripheral vision. Hitter wants to hit the ball out in front of the plate. Forces quick visual recognition and a very quick swing.
Stride checking.
A ramp (safe obstacle) is placed in front of hitter. They measure out what they believe to be their stride length. Then, while looking
at the pitcher not the stride checker, they start with their stride. Eventually adding in the rotation, swing, etc.
Back foot pivot.
The hitter works on rotation, focusing on the back foot pivot. A ball is placed behind the heel of the hitters back foot. As they pivot
they push the ball with their heel. Keep the weight on the ball of the foot.
Tee hitting.
The hitter works on hitting the ball off the tee. Allows hitter to focus on mechanics of entire swing, without the variable of ball
speed or movement.
Heavy ball tee hitting.
Same as tee hitting but adds variety. Use 16", old volleyballs, beach balls, mush balls. Emphasize hitting through the ball.
Little ball tee hitting.
Same as tee hitting but with tennis balls, baseballs, golf whiffle balls.
Griffey Tee.
Gives instant feedback about hands dropping and so on. Remove top loop and tee is now useful for both right and left handed
hitters without time consuming changes.
Inside/Outside tees.
Set up to work on hitting either inside or outside pitch without adjusting hitters’ position. Focus on contact point and appropriate
rotation.
Call Inside/Outside.
Balls on both inside and outside tees. Hitter triggers then partner calls ball to be hit. If no ball is call then the hitter does not swing
to simulate change up. If call is slow then simulates having to hold and adjust to changing location and contact point.
Knee hitting.
Isolates on the swing component of the total swing. Place the hitter on their back knee, rotating the body into the appropriate
position, and have them work on leading with their hands and then exploding into the ball. A short tee can be utilized to allow the
hitter a target as they swing.
Top hand.
Same as knee hitting, isolate on the top hand. We lead with the hands hit ball with the knob. We then progress to hitting the ball
off the tee with the barrel of the bat.
Bottom hand.
Same as 28 except we isolate on the bottom hand.
Strike zone recognition.
The hitter takes their stance in the box. Their partner pitches the ball to them and they track the ball all the way through the hitting
zone. The hitter says "Yes" if it is a strike, "No" if it is a ball.
Situational strike zone recognition.
Same as strike zone except we give the hitter a situation, i.e. 2-0 count, and now they say yes to pitches they would hit in that
situation not just strikes or no to pitches that they wouldn't hit even if it is a strike.
Quick hitting.
Same as side toss only now the object is to take as many quality swings as possible as quickly as possible.
Short toss.
Short front toss with Tennis balls.
Short toss with bounce.
Tennis ball short front toss with a bounce.
Batting Stance
-knocking knuckles should be lined up
-loose grip on the bat (no killer grips)
-hands up close to the ear
-feet comfortable, about shoulder width apart or a little wider
-slight bend in the knees
-slight bend at the waist
-smooth swing
-use the legs (make sure the hips rotate, still have a little give in the waist and knees)
Page 32
-finish with the bat higher than the shoulder, the shoulder/hip/knee should all be aligned, back foot rotated with the toe pointing to
the pitcher
Step-Hip-Swing
This is a hitting sequence drill that requires you to breakdown your swing into three parts.
First take a step, while keeping your stride soft and short. Next, turn the hip, and make sure that your hands have stayed behind
your hips (no forward movement of the hands when the hips turn!). Finally, throw the hands forward, as if you were fully extending
the bat to the ball.
Balance Drill
Players can work on creating a balanced stance by striding and then jumping up and landing back in a balanced stance. Some
keys here are the weight stays between the feet, the knees stay soft (bent), and that the weight stays on the balls of the feet.
To achieve weight on the balls of the feet. Have your players bend at the waist before they bend their knees when they get in their
stance. If they bend their knees before bending their waist then all of their weight is going to be on their heels.
Frisbee Toss
This drill is done to primarily work on extending the hands. The batter will hold a Frisbee while standing in her stance. When she
brings her hands forward she will release the Frisbee and toss it straight into a net (it should not, for a right handed batter, hit the
left side of the cage or fence).
Two –Ball – Using two different colored balls, different numbered balls, etc., give two balls at once to the hitter prompting them
which one to hit only after you’ve tossed them.
Top-Drop – The dropper in this case, stands on a bucket slightly in front and perpendicular to the batter. The “dropper” holds the
ball approximately at her own head level before dropping it into the hitting zone. This drill is designed to promote a quick bat
and increase reaction time.
Sacrifice Bunts:
The batter should turn towards the pitcher as she starts her windup. One hand stays at the end of the bat while the other should
be in the middle of the barrel (the thumb and pointer finger hold the bat-keep them behind the bat so that they do not get hit by the
pitch). Start the bat level at the top of the strike zone with the knees bent. Never drop the bat to try to bunt the ball. Instead bend
the knees and go down to bunt the ball. Try to bunt the top of the ball so that its not a pop up.
Bounce Drill
Using a tennis ball or any other ball that bounces well – the individual will bounce the
ball in front of her, load and swing. Most kids like this drill and it will help with their
rhythm, timing, and hand / eye coordination.
Fielding/Throwing
Patriot Drill:
1. Start on the right knee (for right handers), other foot pointed toward partner. With the glove hold the throwing/right elbow
out in front. Snap the ball to the partner (partners should only be a few feet apart)
2. Back partners apart, still on the knee. Get in the ‘T’ position with the back elbow bent (the back of the hand should be
facing the back of the head…the ball shouldn’t be facing the partner or off to the side). Arm swing should be close to the
head and high. Finish with the throwing hand across the body to the bent knee.
3. Standing..back partners up a little more. Start with the lead foot pointed to the partner, in the ‘T’ position (watch the back
hand), throw the ball, finish with throwing hand across the body to the left knee.
4. Working on form-back away from partner and stretch arms out more.
4 Base Throwing
Players are divided into teams of four (they do this on their own). On the command
(NEXT!) a team will occupy each base including home. The person at home has the ball.
A coach will shout out a number of throwing instructions, which the group has to perform
perfectly or they must run. (EX. Home to First, First to Third, Third to Home, Home to Page 33
Second, Second to Third, Third to First, First to Home.)
Box Throwing
Create a box using four players. The players should spread far-enough apart to meet the
strength of their arms. One ball is used and it can be thrown to anyone at anytime. We
emphasize proper footwork and throwing technique. We encourage that the drill move at
a fast pace.
Partner Drop-steps
Partners stand approximately 10 feet apart from one another. The player without the ball will be in a ready position facing her
partner with the ball. Player 1 then tosses the ball high over either of Player 2’s shoulders. Whichever shoulder Player 1 tosses the
ball over; Player 2 has to drop-step and retreat to field the ball. The drill is then repeated back to Player 1.
Block Drill
The catcher is in full gear. A coach throws balls right and left of the catcher, mostly on the bounce. The catcher has to fully move
in front of the ball and attempt to center the ball in front of her body. The catcher will collapse in front of the ball; the head should
be down, shoulders square, and the glove protecting the area between the legs.
Base Cycle
Starting at home plate, a single line is formed, from fastest to slowest. Allowing for proper spacing (usually five steps or so)
players sprint up the line to first base, running all the way through the bag. On our field our rule is to run through the bag to the
grass. Once each player has made it through first, then they repeat the action running through second, then third, and finally
home. The next step in this drill is to run home to second (make sure they pick up their base coaches), then second to third, and
last third to home. The progression then takes us from home to third, then eventually, to end the drill, players have to run a home
to home to complete the base cycle.
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NOTES
1. Pitchers for both fast pitch and slow pitch should pitch at every practice, preferably with the team's catcher, whether it is before,
after, or during practice. They should throw a minimum of 20 minutes. Coaches need to stress to the pitchers that they need to
throw outside of practice and games when they can for extra practice.
2. To help the practices run more efficient, have a set practice plan before with a set time for each drill. Work on the areas that
need the most work first to make sure they are covered. Also, explain to the girls that practice is only 1.5 hours and they need to
always hustle to each drill and/or water break.
3. Add in a little competition every once in a while, whether its who can stop the most grounders without an error, make the most
accurate throws-longest without any bad throws, catches the most balls in the outfield, (team game) as many outs in a row as
possible, or even a running game.
4. Don’t have one player batting while all the other players are standing around on the field. Always try to have the whole team
involved. If you are going to have one player hit, have a few run bases so that the defensive players can work on situations.
1. If the pitches are high, make sure the girl is snapping the ball at the hip.
2. Sometimes the pitches can either be too high or too low-watch the girls body and make sure she is not leaning back too
much (too much weight on the back foot) or too forward (head over the front foot-leaning forward)
3. If the pitches are off line (too inside or outside), make sure the pitcher is striding on the power line and/or watch the hips.
a. Power line is a straight line from the dragging foot towards the plate. The stride foot should land on that line so
that the body stays in a straight line.
b. Often times the girl turns her hips to face the batter too quick making the ball go very inside-so keep those closed
and let the arm pass the hips before the hips turn.
4. If a pitcher has to be taken out of the game make sure you are positive. Let her know she’s not a terrible pitcher, it’s just
time for another girl to pitch or that it just wasn’t her night. Let her know she needs to continue to practice and focus on
what she may be struggling at.
5. If they hit a batter, make sure you tell them that it won’t be the last time they hit someone as a pitcher and that everyone
does it. Its ok and it happens. Have her refocus, breathe, and go on to the next batter.
6. Have the pitcher tell the coach what they have been working on during the pitching clinics or lessons so that, as the
coach, you can just remind the girl during the game or practice what she has been focusing on. If she has been having
trouble with pitches being too inside or outside-remind them of the powerline, etc.
7. If you just don’t know what to say to a pitcher, tell her to refocus and think about the basics. It’s ok…she can do it! Just
take a breath, relax, and throw the pitch.
Pitching Levels
Level 1: very basic, learning how to throw
Level 2: able to get the ball more in the strike zone, better control
Level 3: throwing more strikes (inside/outside), has a change up
Level 4: better control with the ball, change up, also another pitch (drop/rise)
Level 5: has all pitches and good control of them!
Page 35