Fastpitch Softball Tactics, Best way to stop offense momentum?

[Admin]

Fastpitch Softball Tactics, Best way to stop offense momentum?

What methods have you used with success when your on defense to slow down the offense momentum.

I'm sure that most Girls Fastpitch Softball Team Coaches will say the best way to shut down the girls batting, is by getting some outs.

And I'm sure we would all agree that would work. Nothing better then shutting down the offense in this fashion.

But some time momentum can be a stuff thing to over come during the game.

Questions on Game Tactics

What tactics have you used for slowing down a teams offensive momentum?

 

[ApogeeDemon]

I think it starts with pitch selection. If they are just hitting the snot out of the ball, then try being unorthodox. You might have to throw 2-3 changeups in a row. Also, assess whether or not what they are hitting. Are they crushing the rise? Then get away from that pitch for now. Also, pitch to the top of the lineup and throw to the bottom. What that means is look for outs towards the bottom of the lineup. I would rather walk the number 4 beast than give up a HR. Call timeouts if needed, listen to the battery. They might have some insight. If all else fails, go to the bullpen.

 

[Pacerdad57]

if you have your strongest, fastest pitcher in there it always seems to mess them up a bit by bringing in the pitcher who is 5 to 8 mph slower at her top speed.
especially if she has movement, it really can mess up the dynamics for an inning or two. although the good hitters always come back to adjust to the slower speed before long,
the accuracy and movement had better be there if she's your last hope.....

 

[daboss]

We all know it starts with change of some kind in the circle but I believe you need to involve the entire team to get them on board for a transition. Time out is needed and a team huddle to calm all the nerves------not just the target in the middle. Players outside the circle begin to press under extreme offensive threats and many times this creates an atmosphere that includes errors and bad judgement. It makes it really difficult for a pitcher to get back on track when opportunity after opportunity is missed by the defense. Minimize the damage by being calm and get the girls to relax. Explain what your new approach will be and get them to buy into it. Time outs can heal some wounds.

 

[Mike_Craig_-_Ohio USSSA]

I don't coach fastpitch nor claim to be the end all of softball knowledge but have coached other sports and watched hundreds of game a year for the past 10-12 summers. What Daboss is saying is true for all sports. I watch the "wheels" starting to come off during games and the best coaches know when to take that time out and slow it down for a minute to give there kids a chance to breathe and regroup.

We all know it starts with change of some kind in the circle but I believe you need to involve the entire team to get them on board for a transition. Time out is needed and a team huddle to calm all the nerves------not just the target in the middle. Players outside the circle begin to press under extreme offensive threats and many times this creates an atmosphere that includes errors and bad judgement. It makes it really difficult for a pitcher to get back on track when opportunity after opportunity is missed by the defense. Minimize the damage by being calm and get the girls to relax. Explain what your new approach will be and get them to buy into it. Time outs can heal some wounds.