A common issue that we see in throwers, infield and outfield, is they aren’t setting up their arm circle correctly. When they throw either a larger arm circle as an outfielder or more of an oval like an infielder, the wrist position is very, very important. So today, I am breaking down a quick “Wrist Snap Drill” that will help you to make sure that the fielders are in the proper launching position when they’re throwing the softball.

Wrist Snap Drill for Softball Throwing

The most common problem with youth, high school level players, and even some college players, is that they throw the ball with the ball facing the target the entire time. So instead of throwing a nice oval, they throw more of a V or a pie at the target. If you were to draw a line, it looks like a V, instead of being able to turn that ball around and be in a nice launching position, bend in the elbow and a bend in the wrist.

The key is to be able to have the thumb underneath the ball, and actually wrist snap as the ball releases off the fingers, and wrist snap with the palm down. As a coach, take a moment to see how many players finish with their wrist down versus wrist out or wrist in. That’s a red flat that you want to work on this aspect of their throwing.

“Wrist Snap Drill” on the Fence

  • Set up players in the ready position.
  • The player holds the ball nice and high, behind them and they should have the back of their hand facing them.
  • They are going to work on getting a nice wrist snap by TAPPING on the fence
  • You should notice that the glove elbow is pointing at their target, they’re relaxed, and working on the upper body part of their throw.
  • The player will drive that glove arm in to help with rotation on the throw.
  • So the players will Tap, tap, tap on the fence, and you will know that they’ve got a good wrist snap, nice launching position, and then they can work on following through, snapping that wrist with the palm down when they throw that ball.

Another facet of throwing that can help you become more accurate is making sure that your thumb is beneath your fingers, and that the ball isn’t too deep in your palm. It’s slightly out so you’re able to wrist snap after you release the ball.

Some players use three fingers, some use four, and those players that have extra long fingers can go ahead and use two. If you can, always try to grab across the seams for a tighter rotation and more spin. The more spin you can get on the ball, the longer you can keep it in the air.

Remember, when you drop that ball down by your side, be sure to tuck the thumb inward toward your hip. Whether it’s an infield throw or an outfielder, make sure that you bring that thumb inward to get into position more quickly.

Looking for more throwing tips and techniques?   Then be sure to check out our complete collection of softball throwing drills.