The Amateur Softball Association sets numerous rules for pitching in fast-pitch games. The pitcher has just 20 seconds to release the ball after the umpire shouts, “Play ball” or after receiving the ball. Many of the pitching rules apply to both men’s and women’s play, but there are a few variations between the two.
Position
The pitcher is not allowed to take the pitching position on the plate if she does not have the ball. The pitcher also is not officially in pitching position unless the catcher is in the proper position to receive her pitch, according to the ASA Official Rules of Softball: Umpire Edition. Both of the pitcher’s feet have to be on the ground and within 24 inches of the pitcher’s plate. The pitcher’s shoulders need to be in line with third and first bases.
Foot Placement
Male players have to take a position in which the pivot foot is in contact with the pitcher’s plate. A male pitcher’s nonpivot foot can be behind or in contact with the plate. Female pitchers must have both of their feet in contact with the pitcher’s plate, according to ASA.
Procedure
The pitcher is required to either take, or appear to take, a signal and have separated hands prior to pitching. The ball can stay in the glove or pitching hand at this time. The pitcher then needs to bring her hands together for 1 to 10 seconds before releasing the ball. Prior to taking a forward step, both feet have to stay in contact with the pitcher’s plate in women’s play, according to ASA. Prior to the step in men’s play, a backward step may be taken while hands are brought together or after hands are brought together.
Motion
The pitcher cannot make movements that resemble pitching without delivering the ball. The pitcher also cannot stop forward motion after separating the hands. A pitcher is required to take one step forward toward the batter with the nonpivot foot. This has to be simultaneous with releasing the ball, according to “The Sport Rules Book” by Tom Hanlon.
Windmill
A pitcher is not allowed to make two arm revolutions on a windmill pitch. The pitcher can, however, drop her arm to the rear and side before starting her windmill motion, advises ASA.
Delivery
Ball delivery must be underhanded. The hand has to be below the pitcher’s hip on delivery. The wrist cannot be farther from the pitcher’s body than his elbow, according to Hanlon.
About this Author
Linda Tarr Kent is a reporter and editor with 20 years experience at Gannett Company, Inc., The McClatchy Company, Sound Publishing, Inc., Mach Publishing, MomFit The Movement and other companies. Her area of expertise is health and fitness. She has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Washington State University.
