Fast-Pitch Softball Glossary
Learn the language of Fast-Pitch Softball — answer-first definitions with real examples, beginner to pro.
11 terms
- ChangeupIntermediateA changeup is an off-speed pitch thrown with the same windmill motion as the fastball but much slower, disrupting the hitter’s timing so they swing early.
- Drag BuntIntermediateA drag bunt is a bunt for a base hit (not a sacrifice) where a fast runner — often a lefty slapper — begins moving toward first while dragging the bat through to deaden the ball.
- Drop BallIntermediateA drop ball is a fast-pitch pitch thrown with topspin so it sinks sharply as it reaches the plate, inducing ground balls and swings over the top.
- Power SlapAdvancedA power slap is a slapper’s full, driving swing taken while moving through the box — combining the running start of a slap with the force of a normal swing to drive the ball into the outfield.
- Quick HandsIntermediateQuick hands describe a short, direct path of the hands to the ball — the compact swing fast-pitch hitters need to catch up to high velocity in a tiny reaction window.
- Reaction WindowAdvancedThe reaction window is the fraction of a second a fast-pitch hitter has to read, decide, and swing. The short pitching distance makes it one of the tightest in all of sport.
- Rise BallIntermediateA rise ball is a fast-pitch pitch thrown with backspin so it appears to climb as it nears the plate, tempting hitters to swing under it.
- Sacrifice BuntBeginnerA sacrifice bunt is intentionally tapping the ball softly into play to advance a baserunner, accepting the batter’s out in exchange for moving the runner into scoring position.
- Short GameBeginnerThe short game is fast-pitch’s collection of low-power, high-pressure offensive tactics — bunts, slaps, and push bunts — used to move runners and beat defenses with speed.
- Slap HittingAdvancedSlap hitting is a left-handed technique where a fast runner moves through the box toward the pitcher while making contact, getting a running start toward first base.
- WindmillBeginnerThe windmill is the underhand fast-pitch delivery in which the arm makes a full circle before release, generating the velocity that defines the game.
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