Chopped Ball Meaning in Softball

A chopped ball happens when a batter hits the top half of the softball with downward force. This contact drives the ball directly into the dirt or turf right in front of the plate. The ball often bounces very high into the air after hitting the ground with high speed. This high bounce gives the runner extra time to reach first base before a defender catches it. One player chopped the ball into the dirt and reached base before the shortstop made a throw. Strategic hitters use this technique on fast turf to create difficult fielding plays for the infield. The downward angle of the bat creates the specific spin necessary for this high-trapped bounce.