USSSA Softball Pitching Rules: Regulations for a Pitcher's Feet

Pivot Foot Placement

The pivot foot (push foot) must remain in contact with the pitching rubber at the start of the pitch. This ensures that the pitcher is properly positioned and does not gain an unfair advantage by stepping forward before initiating the pitch.

Stride Foot Landing

The stride foot must land within the designated pitching lane. If a pitcher steps outside this area, it may be considered an illegal pitch, potentially resulting in penalties such as awarding a ball to the batter or allowing base runners to advance.

Drag and Leap Rules

USSSA rules specify that the pivot foot must remain in contact with the ground throughout the pitch. This means that pitchers are not allowed to leap or replant their foot before releasing the ball. A legal pitch requires a continuous motion where the pivot foot drags along the ground rather than lifting completely off.

Penalty for Illegal Footwork

If a pitcher violates foot placement rules, the umpire may call an illegal pitch. Consequences can include awarding a ball to the batter, allowing base runners to advance, or even disqualifying the pitcher if repeated infractions occur.

For the most up-to-date and detailed regulations, you can refer to the official USSSA Fastpitch Rules.

Here’s a comparison of USSSA softball pitching rules with other major organizations:

USSSA vs. USA Softball

• Push Foot Placement: In USSSA, pitchers can take a step back before pushing off, while USA Softball requires both feet to start in contact with the rubber.

• Leaping & Replanting: USSSA allows leaping, meaning the pivot foot can leave the ground, while USA Softball requires the pivot foot to stay in contact with the ground throughout the pitch.

• Stride Foot Landing: Both organizations require the stride foot to land within the pitching lane, but USA Softball has stricter enforcement on foot placement.

USSSA vs. NCAA Softball

• Starting Position: NCAA pitchers must start with one foot in contact with the rubber, similar to USSSA rules.

• Leaping Rules: NCAA allows leaping, just like USSSA, meaning pitchers can fully lift their pivot foot off the ground.

• Toe Drag: NCAA pitchers often use a toe drag for control, which is also common in USSSA.

USSSA vs. NFHS (High School Softball)

• Step Back Rule: NFHS allows pitchers to step back, similar to USSSA.

• Leaping & Replanting: NFHS prohibits leaping, meaning the pivot foot must stay in contact with the ground, unlike USSSA, which allows leaping.

• Stride Foot Rules: NFHS enforces strict stride foot placement, ensuring pitchers do not step outside the designated lane.

Each organization has slight variations in pitching rules, affecting how pitchers develop their mechanics. If you're playing in multiple leagues, it's important to adjust your technique accordingly! You can check out more details here.