How to Pitch a Rise Ball in Softball

Softball has several defense positions, but the most important position is the pitcher. A pitcher's arsenal of pitches includes the fastball, change-up, screwball, drop ball and rise ball. The rise ball moves toward the batter like a fastball and then suddenly rises. If a rise ball is pitched correctly, it may cause the batter to swing too low.

Things You'll Need

  • Softball
  • Glove
  • Catcher
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place your two middle fingers inside the narrows of the ball, the area where the seams are the closest together.

    • 2

      Curl your index finger on the side of the ball. If you're a right-handed pitcher, place your index finger to the left of the seam that's to the left of your middle finger. If you're left-handed, place your index finger to the right of the seam that's to the right of your middle finger.

    • 3

      Swing your arm fast as though you were pitching a fastball.

    • 4

      Face away from the batter as you get to about 12 o'clock in your arm motion.

    • 5

      Let go of the ball by "twisting the doorknob." As fast as you can, with a twisting motion, move your fingers from the top of the ball to under the ball. Your hand should be cocked back, with the ball facing the opposite way until the ball gets to your hip. Then, "twist the doorknob -- snap your wrist so the ball faces home plate, and move your fingers under the ball.

    • 6

      Step forward toward home plate and follow through with your pitch, but keep leaning back as you release the ball.

    • 7

      Release the ball with your fingers directly under the ball at your hip. The inside of your elbow should be facing away from you. Lean back by bending the knee of your back leg as you release the ball.