|
Curve Pitcher’s checklist |
Hard work beats talent, when talent doesn't work hard.
Are you getting strike one with regularity? This is one of the most important weapons a pitcher has at his disposal. It opens up all your other pitches and locations and keeps the batter on the defensive. |
What is your demeanor in tough situations? The ideal is for you to remain in control in all situations. In fact, opposing teams should not be able to tell from your actions on the mound if you are winning or losing. Your team responds to positive mound behavior in an affirmative way. On the other hand the opposing team draws encouragement from negative mound demeanor. |
Are you fielding your position? When the baseball is released the pitcher becomes another infielder and will typically get a play or two in every game. You must make those plays. They are usually only routine plays but can really affect the outcome of the game if not handled properly. |
Are you throwing on a downward plane? Typically this is measured by the number of ground ball outs you get. The 2-seam fastball, coupled with you throwing with your elbow shoulder-high and keeping your fingers on top of the ball will usually produce good results. Pay close attention to the hand arm and elbow. This is an indicator that you are not only throwing properly but it will often drop if you become fatigued. If your arm drops your pitches will usually be "up." |
Are you throwing your change up for strikes? This allows you to throw the change up when behind in the count- a particularly potent weapon. What better time to throw a change than when the batter is expecting a fastball? Time teaching and reinforcing this pitch should be in bullpens. But it can also be practiced when in the outfield, throwing change ups to the bagman during batting practice. |
Do you "bear down" with two outs? This is a very dangerous time, many games have been lost with two outs. It is critical that you be aggressive in the strike zone in those situations. Remind yourself to "close the deal." |
Are you working quickly? Get the ball from the catcher, check the defense, get the sign and throw the pitch. No walking around the mound or other ways of hesitating. The infielders will play better if you work quickly. Typically if you hesitate or stall, the defense will become sluggish and they will have a tendency to be "back on their heels." Keep the game flowing. Don't give the offense any extra opportunities to beat you. | | |
|
Curve Creeds 