The Mound Visit
Before you worry about your mechanics, read this:
January 27, 2025 · 2 min read · Jared Gaynor
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Often times, when a pitcher is struggling to throw strikes they think it is because of their mechanics.
While this can be true in some cases, I don't recommend this being the focus in a game setting.
When you are struggling to throw strikes in a game you want to stay external with your focus. Once you start shifting your focus internally (get into back leg more, stay closed, etc.) it can be easy to distract yourself from what matters most in that moment.
Not to mention, in a game setting you will have a difficult time actually changing your mechanics positively.
Instead of focusing on mechanics, I have a much simpler adjustment.
Change your target.
If I am consistently missing arm side with my fastball and I am aiming glove side, than I need to exaggerate my target even more to the glove side.
If I am trying to throw a curveball for a strike and I keep spiking it, my target is obviously too low. Instead of aiming for the glove I might need to aim for the catcher's mask or even the umpire's mask.
When you notice you are missing consistently in one direction, make an extreme adjustment in the opposite direction. From there you can fine tune what your target needs to be.
The last thing you want to do is continue to aim in the same spot and expect a different result.
The most successful pitchers are the ones that can make adjustments the quickest.
Today's tip is very simple, but can be a game changer.
That's all for today.
See you next week!
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