Slowpitch Softball Hitting Tips - Stance

Introduction

This tutorial provides essential tips for developing an effective stance in slowpitch softball. Understanding how to position yourself in the batter's box can significantly enhance your performance by allowing you to better anticipate pitches and make solid contact with the ball.

Step 1: Observe the Pitcher

• Before your turn at bat, pay close attention to the pitcher.
• Identify any patterns in their pitching style:
  • Are they throwing deep consistently?
  • Are they mixing up pitch heights?
• Adjust your stance based on this observation:
  • Move back in the box if pitches are consistently deep.
  • Move up in the box if pitches are consistently short.

Step 2: Create a Comfortable Stance

• Find a comfortable stance that suits you; this is often a matter of personal preference.
• Position your feet about shoulder-width apart.
• Experiment with different stances:
  • Closed stance
  • Open stance
• Focus on filling any holes in the batter’s box to ensure solid footing.

Step 3: Prepare Your Feet and Weight Distribution

• Dig your feet into the ground slightly to create a mound that helps with balance.
• Ensure your weight is distributed on the inside part of your feet, which will aid in pushing off effectively.

Step 4: Positioning in the Batter’s Box

• Your position in the box may vary depending on the league's rules:
  • For ASA, position yourself deeper in the box to catch pitches at your chest or above your waist.
  • For UA or ISA, move up in the box to meet pitches higher, ideally at waist level.
• If aiming for a base hit, consider moving back slightly to catch lower pitches.

Step 5: Timing and Contact Point

• If you’re hitting the ball on the handle:
  • This is often a timing issue rather than a stance issue.
  • Focus on making contact with the ball out in front of the plate.
• Practice getting your arms extended when hitting the ball:
  • Aim to hit the ball at the "sweet spot" of the bat by making contact early.

Step 6: Maintain Consistency in Your Stance

• If you plan to hit to the opposite field, do not change your stance.
• Keep your normal stance while the pitch is released, then adjust your body to hit the ball the other way.
• Always ensure that you extend your arms for better control and power.

Conclusion

Mastering your stance in slowpitch softball is about observation, comfort, and timing. By watching the pitcher, finding a comfortable stance, and focusing on proper timing and position, you can significantly improve your batting performance. Practice these steps regularly, and you'll see your hits become more consistent and powerful.