How to Throw a Softball Drop Ball

As a hitter, few things are more frustrating than squaring up on a pitch only to realize that the ball has dropped several inches from where it was when you started your swing. As a pitcher, few things are more rewarding than seeing that batter swing right over the top of your well-placed and well-timed pitch. Adding a drop ball to your arsenal of pitches gives you one more effective weapon when facing opposing teams.

Instructions

    • 1

      Grip the ball across the seams. This is commonly known as a four-seam grip. Your fingertips should be on the seam.

    • 2

      Shorten your stride. Your stride should be about a foot shorter than normal when delivering this pitch.

    • 3

      Transfer your weight to your forward leg as you land and keep your back straight. Your arm should be close to your body and your shoulders relaxed.

    • 4

      Pull back and slightly upwards with your fingers as you release the ball to produce a rapid forward rotation as the pitch is delivered.