A changeup grip changes the ball’s spin and speed without changing the arm motion. A pitcher with one good off-speed pitch becomes much harder to hit.
What you need: 30 softballs (12”), pitcher at 40 feet, catcher with gear.
Setup: Pitcher on mound. Catcher at home plate.
How to run it:
- Grip one: fastball (four-seam grip, fingers on the seams).
- Grip two: changeup (three-finger grip, knuckles showing, or backhand grip).
- Pitcher throws 10 fastballs. Count strikes. Record velocity feel (fast, medium, slow).
- Pitcher throws 10 changeups with the new grip. Count strikes. Record velocity feel.
- Mixer round: 10 pitches alternating fastball and changeup. Catcher calls which was faster.
What to watch: Does the arm motion stay the same? If the arm changes, the batter will recognize the pitch early.
Pitch count and rest: Max 35 pitches per day. No back-to-back days. Ice after pitching. If shoulder soreness, skip next day.
If they’re struggling: Start with just the changeup grip. Throw 10 changeups with the same motion. Focus on the grip, not speed difference.
If they’ve got it: Add a second off-speed pitch (drop ball). Vary release points to create different spin.
Gear for this drill (affiliate)
Youth softball glove → — 11-inch fielder’s glove for new players.
Youth catcher’s set → — chest protector, helmet, and leg guards.
Full softball gear guide → — all picks by age, sport, and level.
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