Tips

Practices

updated 2/26

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FastPitch TV - Check this out! (Episode #155 is good)

Quick Tip:

Fielding: Count the Bounces

Fastpitch Softball Free fielding tips to help wtih fielding groundballs

If you are struggling to field groundballs cleanly then try this simple tip – count the bounces!

It’s very common for infielders, even expert fielding infielders, to suddenly become fumble-hands and not be able to field groundballs. It’s a big problem when it happens and tends to only get worse as they become more apprehensive whenever a groundball is hit. That’s why a great way to redirect your attention is to count the number of times the ball bounces while it’s coming toward you. Count it out loud and watch how suddenly you will shift focus from worrying about mis-handling the ball. Count the Bounces!

More tips from Softball Excellence

Previous tips:

Know your primary position inside out. To be the best you can be, you have to know everything there is to know about playing your position. You should also familiarize yourself with at least one secondary position. Versatility is always an asset for a softball player.

Throwing a caught ball

To help you throw a ball quicker after you've caught it, work on catching the ball directly in front of your throwing shoulder with two hands. This means if you're right handed, you will need to move your feet in order to catch the ball in front of your right shoulder. Instead of catching the ball and then moving the ball to your shoulder to start the throw, figure out, while it is in mid-air, where it's going to be when you catch it. This way, you catch it directly in front of your throwing shoulder with your throwing hand in position to quickly retrieve the ball from your mitt.