Pitching Training

This offseason, there are several drills that the boys can do in order to improve their pitching.  Below are several videos of the basic mechanics, suggested drills, and breakdowns of their favorite MLB players.  Our boys should be getting in at least one pitching session (several warmup activities, 30-40 full speed pitches) per week in the offseason.  Here are some basic exercises that they can do in the garage, outside in the backyard, at a ball field, or in an indoor facility:

• Practice the mechanics in front of a mirror.

• Practice pitching to a teammate, friend, or parent.  I would encourage the catcher to not be forgiving -- teach the boys what a strike is by not reaching for balls.  Additionally, make it a 2 inning scenario.  Yell out the count with each pitch.  3 strikeouts and the inning is over.  If there is a walk, the runner is on first (and subsequent walks advance the runners).  If there is a wild pitch, runners advance a base.  This will make it "real" for them.

• The boys can also do strength training, including pushups or slamming a medicine ball.

• Balance is a big component.  The boys can work on their balance on one foot with their other knee up.

Below is a great video showing the form and mechanics that we teach the boys:

Common Pitching Mechanics Issues:

Balks Are New This Year - and Here Is A Breakdown:

Pitching Drills:

Breaking Down Our Favorite Pitchers: