Free Softball Drills

For the first drill, throw two balls at the same time at the hitter. When the balls are in mid-air, call out either the top or the bottom ball. The hitter must then swing at and hit the called ball. Once the players get the hang of the drill, fake some of your throws. Another variation on this drill involves throwing the balls from different angles or at different speeds.

Many young players develop the bad habit of stepping out when they hit. This drill combats that habit by having players to step in to the ball as opposed to out. By using the momentum of the step in, players will be unable to hesitate and step out.

Start first by setting up a tee at strike level height for your player. The hitter should start by standing one full step behind where they normally hit the ball. Have the hitter step towards the plate with their back foot first, then the front foot, then proceed immediately to hitting the ball without hesitation. After the foundation is established, run the drill with live pitches being thrown either by another player or by a throwing machine.

Solid hitting alone will not win softball games. Players also must practice their base running skills in order to develop the right instincts. While base running is a crucial skill that can make or break a softball game, most players get bored with base running drills. This free softball drill, similar to the game Simon Says, makes the once tedious act of base running fun!

Call out instructions to the players, using the words 'Simon Says' before the instruction. For example, call out "Simon Says runner on second, the ball is hit to the outfield, the fielder misses the catch", and the players must pretend they are in that situation. From time to time, leave out the crucial 'Simon Says' part at the beginning of the instruction, and if the players still run, then they are eliminated the game. Continue until there is only one player left.

After you've completed the free softball drills, don't forget to set at least 20 minutes aside at the end of your practice for some scrimmage. It gives your players a chance to see their teammates' strengths and weaknesses as well as have a little fun at the end of the practice.