Improving Velocity - Quick Fix

Velocity is constantly on the minds of pitchers at every level. Although velocity is not the most important factor in being successful, it is still a very valuable asset when playing at higher levels. I am going to tell you how you can instantly add a little velocity to your pitches or at least give you a little more life on your fastball by addressing a common issue amongst younger pitchers; getting behind the baseball.

We hear this phrase all the time, at every level, but what does it mean?

Well, to put it simply, it means using ALL the force generated by the body to throw the ball, while taking as much strain off the arm as possible. Oftentimes pitchers generate a lot of power but miss out on using it because the body jumps ahead of the ball too fast, making the arm do all of the work. So how do we fix this?

One simple fix is to separate your hands a little earlier. This gives the arm a head start getting it into the slot easier and allow the body to stay back. Here is a simple drill you can do to teach your muscles the right timing. Get to the balanced position and pause. A split second before you begin to drop your lift leg, begin to separate your hands. Continue your motion until just before you come out of balance and pull your lift leg and arms back up to the balance position you started in. Repeat this 10 times and rest for 30 sec. You should do 2 or 3 sets of this drill every other day.

Remember: nothing can get you to the next level faster than working with a professional. If you, or someone else you know, needs individual instruction please contact me via email at gwhelan@tpgpitching.com for more information.

Changing Speeds

I often notice that a lot of pitchers try to blow a fastball by every guy they face. There are times when they can get away with doing this, but the difference between a pitcher and "a thrower" is knowing that there are other ways to get batters out.

When you hear someone talking about changing speeds, what is the first thing that comes to mind?  Naturally we think that means you have to throw a change-up or a curve. That's not always the case. Most times, back-to-back fastballs in the same location at different speeds will yield the same results, even if you're not a flamethrower.

The best pitchers have two different speeds for every pitch. That doesn't mean you need to overthrow one to compensate for another. It means that you need to be in control of your body and stay within your ability. Taking a little bit off of a fastball WILL mess up the timing of the batter. It is the difference between a batter squaring a pitch up and dribbling a ball to first base. It's a matter of a fraction of a second. That's all it takes!

Here is a tip: To change speeds on your fastball try spreading out your fingers slightly. A fraction of an inch makes a huge difference.

Remember, you don't need to strike everyone out. When you stop trying to get guys to swing and miss and start making them put the ball in play, you will have longer, more successful outings..

Remember: nothing can get you to the next level faster than working with a professional. If you, or someone else you know, need individual instruction please contact me via email at graigwhelan@gmail.com for more information.