Focus point

Up until last year, for a pitch to be legal in softball, it was necessary for pitchers to keep their rear (pivot) foot on the ground during the entire pitch, a process known as “dragging.” However, in 2024, this rule has been changed. Refer to rules 8.01(s), rule 8.05(a), and 2.00 “Crow Hop” and “Illegal Pitch” for more details.

Now, for a pitch to be legal, it is allowed (but not mandatory) for the rear (pivot) foot to also come off the ground. Therefore, jumping (leaping) is permitted.

But only as long as:

1. Both feet remain within the 24-inch width of the pitching plate.
2. The pitcher does not replant the rear foot (no replant).

Regarding point 1:
On the field, lines are ideally drawn from the pitching plate to the edge of the circle wherever possible. If these lines are missing or have faded, as always, the umpire’s decision prevails.

Regarding point 2:
Little League has its own rules concerning jumping, which are different from the WBSC rules used in the Dutch competition. The pitcher is allowed to push off only once, solely from the pitching plate. Both feet may leave the ground after this push-off. However, landing and then pushing off again with the rear foot is not allowed. The rear foot may be the first to land and may drag due to forward movement. A Crow Hop is considered an illegal pitch. Refer to rule 2.00 Crow Hop. Any pitch where the umpire judges that a second push-off occurs is penalized as an illegal pitch.

For further clarification, you should watch the: video.

Deze kunt u hier lezen als er extra aanvullingen zijn.