As a follow-up to the earlier post about mastering outfield play, which broke the keys to the position into read, route and run, we move to into the fundamentals of pitching. For pitching, the focus is on learning four critical ingredients – speed, shape, spot and sequence. Let’s break down each element and discover how to develop young hurlers into dominant forces on the mound.
Speed
Speed is one of the most eye-catching aspects of pitching, and it’s no surprise why. A fastball that sizzles past the batter can be a game-changer. Here are some tips to help your pitchers develop their speed:
- Force production: Throwing involves transferring energy up the kinetic chain from the ground to the hand to the ball. This requires force production to move the arm fast. Encourage your pitchers to work on their strength and conditioning of the posterior chain, core and internal/external rotator cuffs as well as grip strength to produce the force safely. Young pitchers should be very careful to not chase speed or always throw at full intent because of the stress it places on their arm before they’re skeletally mature
- Efficient Mechanics: Emphasize the importance of proper pitching mechanics. A efficient pitching motion is the foundation for channeling the force produced into the ball. Focus on leg drive, hip rotation, and a clean arm path.
Shape
After how fast the ball moves, the direction it moves determines the type of pitch. In the world of pitching, the ability to make a baseball change direction is a true art form. As an analogy, think about a topspin serve in tennis. The ball drops sharply because of the forward spin the racket puts on the ball. A curveball in baseball has the same rotation. In contrast, a slice return puts backspin on a tennis ball and creates a rising action. A four-seam fastball is the same with the backspin creating upward pressure from the seams to resist gravity and make it appear to be rising (when it is really just dropping slower than the batter expects). All other pitches such as a slider are some form in between to get the ball to have more horizontal movement. This aspect of pitching can be broken down into two critical components: spin and arm slot.
a) Spin: The Key to Movement
Spin is the magic behind the movement of pitches. Whether it’s a curveball that drops sharply or a slider that darts away from the batter, spin is at the heart of creating pitch shape. Here’s how to help your pitchers master the art of spin:
Mastering Grip: Begin by teaching your pitchers the various grips for different pitches. Each grip creates a unique spin, which results in specific movement. The grip is the foundation for creating the desired pitch shape.
Finger Pressure: Emphasize the importance of finger pressure. The pressure applied on the seams of the baseball determines the spin rate and direction. Proper finger pressure is crucial for controlling the movement of the pitch.
Wrist Action: Explain to your pitchers how wrist action can enhance spin. A snappy wrist flick at the release point can put a powerful spin on the ball, causing it to break or dive unpredictably. Practice and repetition are key to perfecting wrist action.
b) Arm Slot: The Path to Consistency
The arm slot is another crucial factor in pitch shape. It refers to the angle and release point from which the pitcher delivers the ball. Justin Verlander and Clayton Kershaw are known for over-the-top deliveries which result in 12-6 vertical movement. Most pitchers have more of a 3/4 delivery and a few have unique side arm or submarine slots like Tyler Rodgers. Deliveries with unique arm slots can be effective because hitters rarely see the ball release from those angles and struggle with the resulting shape of the pitch.
By breaking down the concept of “shape” into spin and arm slot, you provide your pitchers with a clear roadmap for developing pitch movement.
Spot
Location is where control and command come into play. Control is the ability to consistently throw strikes and command is the ability to hit spots. Hitting the right spot on the plate increases a pitcher’s effectiveness.
Sequence
The sequence is about the order of the pitches in an at bat. Game calling is an art and learned over time. In most of high school and college the coach will call the pitches. If a coach really trusts his catcher, he’ll allow him some latitude to do it with the pitcher having the ability shake off to change the pitch selection. Sequences will differ based on the batter’s strengths and weaknesses and game situation (inning, outs, score)
Mastering these four main aspects of pitching takes time and dedication. Encourage your pitchers to work hard, stay focused, and continuously refine their skills. By developing speed, shape, spot and sequence, they’ll become well-rounded and formidable assets on your team’s pitching staff.
Monster Baseball 