Every single one of you pitchers has a great training tool that you may not realize you have: the dirt below your feet! You can gather a lot of information about your pitching mechanics by looking at the markings your feet leave in the ground. Today we’ll examine some common patterns and discuss what they mean.
Read MoreVideos are a great training aid for learning skills, but sometimes it’s helpful to be able to look at at a looping animation. For your reference, I’ve compiled some slow-motion looping animated GIFs of a few pitchers that we feel exemplify excellent pitching mechanics.
Read MoreWe’re already entering August, and with that comes the end of the summer tournament season. Many of you may be moving into the next age group within your organization before Fall ball starts. For current 10U pitchers, that means an increased pitching distance and a bigger ball. 12U pitchers, you’ll also be increasing your pitching distance in your move to 14U. I’ve compiled a list of resources you can use to help ease the transition.
Read MoreYou all probably know that adequate rest is important for preventing injury. Believe it or not, it’s also essential for developing solid mechanics early in a pitcher’s development.
Read MoreHow many of you pitchers have been told you’re overthrowing, or trying too hard? And how many of you are not entirely sure what that means, or don’t know how it feels to fix it? You’re not alone.
Read MoreA recent reader question reminded me to address this topic, which affects so many pitchers. In a past article, I discussed some tips for overcoming game-time nerves to help you pitch as well in games as in practice, However, many pitchers who DO NOT get nervous during games still struggle to match up their practice and game-time pitching mechanics. But why?
Read MoreWe’ve talked a lot about how the force with which you push off the pitching rubber largely determines the velocity of your pitch as a windmill pitcher. It follows that the harder you push off the rubber, the longer your stride has the potential to get.
Read MoreI’m going to continue answering reader questions this week, and it just so happens that this one is a nice continuation from my post last week about strengthening your body to support the leg drive phase of the windmill pitch. How do you work on transitioning from a good push off the pitching rubber to a good drive-through in your pitching practice?
Read MoreOver the past couple of weeks I’ve found myself sending these videos to a lot of people, either in response to questions I’ve received or after working with them in person. No matter what age or level you are, I guarantee your leg drive can get better. For the extreme majority of you, I’m willing to bet it could get A LOT better. However, it’s definitely not going to get better with practice alone.
Read MoreIf you’re in the New York tri-state area (or are willing to travel there) and are looking for hitting and/or fielding instruction this summer, you can get lessons from former Alabama star and National Champion Cassie Reilly-Boccia. Read on for more info and a flier.
Read More