Whether you are a pitcher, catcher, infielder or outfielder, it’s important to always line a softball you use in practice. Many pitchers are accustomed to using lined balls when they practice pitching because it’s the easiest way to dictate correct spin on pitches. Instructors who teach basic fastball fundamentals stress the importance of lining balls, with the idea of keeping the line on the ball lined up with the Powerline on the ground. If both lines “line-up” the outcome of the pitch will be straight, I mean how could it not be?
Catchers and position players can benefit from practicing throwing with lined balls as well. The line should be placed around the four-seam or the commonly taught “C” grip. Below are three reasons for why every single position player on the softball field can benefit from using a lined ball.
- Get the right grip: This is extremely important especially for the young kids. Whether you are a pitcher throwing a four-seam fastball or a position player throwing to a base, we were all taught the “C” grip from a young age. By adding a line to the ball, it’s easier to find the right grip faster. All the athlete needs to do is place their middle finger right on the line. Many times without a line on the ball, young pitchers and position players will just grab the ball and throw it. The “C” or four seam grip will produce the most spin.
- Evidence of correct spin: This is a huge point for pitchers and position players. In pitching, in order for a pitch to work correctly, a pitcher must produce the correct spin. Often times pitchers think they are mastering a movement pitch because they are able to throw it to the intended spot. This doesn’t necessarily mean there was movement on the pitch. By adding a line, the pitcher and catcher should be able to see a solid “stripe” or line on the ball when the pitch is delivered. If there is no evidence of a line, they didn’t spin the pitch correctly. Same goes for position players. It’s important to always practice throwing with a lined ball. By adding a line, the player throwing the ball must come completely over the top of their throw to create a solid line on the ball. If the line is sideways, the crooked line is evidence that the player threw the ball side-armed. Practice the right mechanics and stay on top of your throws!
- Keeps arm healthy: This point goes hand in hand with the point above. If players practice good ‘over the top’ throws that create a solid line when the ball travels through the air, their arm is going to stay healthy for longer. When players develop bad throwing habits such as throwing side armed, they are more susceptible to injury later on. Also, if players develop bad habits over time, it becomes harder to break those habits.
In order to hold players accountable no matter what position they play, always warm up overhand, and underhand if you’re a pitcher, with a lined softball. It only takes 30 seconds to wrap some electrical tape around a ball on the four-seam, or maybe a minute to color in a line with a permanent marker. A big piece of advice, practice throwing lined balls now because it will help prepare you for your first college practice in the future.
