Elbow Position for Correct Spin
In this video, I talk about the importance proper elbow position during forearm fire in order to achieve the correct spin
Read MorePosts Tagged ‘movement pitches’
Screwball elbow torque: is it dangerous?
I got a question a while ago from a reader who was curious about Jennie Finch’s screwball, specifically wanting to know if it was safer on the elbow than the more widely taught screwball (which is also the one we teach). I want to dispel some myths about screwballs and drops, and shed some light for any pitchers who may rely on these pitches and experience some elbow soreness.
Read MoreBreaking Pitches into the Strikezone
You can be a great pitcher even if you don’t have overpowering speed if you can really command multiple pitches. How do you defend against batters moving up in the box?
Read MoreReader question: “twist” vs. “tuck finger”
This week I’m addressing a question asked by reader Fred about different methods of throwing a curveball. Since terminology varies around the country it was a little tricky, but I did my best interpretation. Fred, if this doesn’t answer your question thoroughly, please feel free to send a follow up!
Read MoreMovement Pitches with Purpose
Optimize your off-season movement pitch practice! More in the video.
Read MoreHow Tape Can Help You Practice Pitching
Pittsburgh just got its first snow of the year! Unless you’re in a warm place, you’re probably stuck in a gym for at least 2-3 more months. There aren’t many advantages to pitching on a gym floor, but there is one: TAPE! Today you’re going to learn how some strategically placed tape strips can aid your pitching practice.
Read MoreWinter Practice Tips: Spins and Other Resources
“How much should my daughter be practicing?” and “what should we be working on?” are two of my most consistently frequently asked questions, both from readers writing in and from my own students. Since the off-season is the time when people seem to be the most unsure, here is a list of resources you can use as a training guide!
Read More3 Movement Pitch Dealbreakers
We’re firm believers that movement pitches happen mostly from the elbow down; if you’re not generating the correct kind of spin—and A LOT of tight fast spin—using your wrist and fingers with a loose forearm, your pitch won’t truly move, even if you hit your location. However, even if you have good spin, there are a few dealbreakers that will prevent you from hitting your spots or throwing a good pitch overall.
Read MoreCalling Pitches
One of our followers, William, asked about calling pitches as a coach! Check out the video.
Read MoreHow to Wake Up Your Arms and Legs
In my last post, we discussed some of the problems that can arise if your arms and legs are “asleep”—meaning your arm movements are dominated by your shoulder rather than your actual arms, and/or your leg movements are dominated by your hips rather than your legs. This can cause poor speed, bad movement pitches, inability to whip your arm, and in many cases, pain. Today we’re going to talk about WHY this happens in some pitchers and what you can do about it.
Read More