Softball Tip

Softball Tip: Understanding the Strike Zone

When you step in the batter’s box, how do you know what pitches to swing at? Understanding the dimensions of a standard strike zone is beneficial when eyeing balls and strikes. Softball players should develop a sense of where their own strike zone is and then adjust each game to what the umpire is calling. Find a Nike Softball Camp near you to improve inside the batter's box. Below are general guidelines for the strike zone:

• Top of Zone: Right below the chest or where the letters are normally on a jersey
• Middle Zone: Waistline/beltline
• Bottom of Zone: Kneecaps
• Reminder: The width of the strike zone is the width of home plate

Once you develop an understanding of your personal strike zone, keep in mind the following softball tips:

1. Take note of where strikes are called. Each umpire is unique, and some call a smaller strike zone while others call a larger one.
2. Don’t be openly upset if you disagree with a strike call. Normally, the umpire will try to be consistent and if there is a strike called against you then it will be called against the opponent as well.
3. On a possible ball 4, do not just automatically assume it is a ball before the umpire says the call. It is possible if you start to take first base, the umpire may call it a strike. Wait for them to call the pitch.

There tend to be calls that you may not agree with. However, keeping a positive attitude and getting ready for the next pitch will help you and your team succeed. Check out more softball tips to learn more!