Commonly Taught Pitching Technique Does Not Improve Velocity

by Dick Mills on September 07, 2009

This pitching technique, turning the body away from the hitter, is commonly taught by many coaches and instructors as a way to improve pitching velocity. However, it is actually a mechanical fault that will reduce pitching velocity and could very well reduce control.  

Efficient pitching mechanics which maximize force production have the body moving sideways in a linear fashion  toward the plate.  The technique of showing the back pocket or the pitcher's uniform number to the hitter demonstrates a rotational component that will slow down the pitcher from directing his body sideways toward the plate.

In order to get sideways he must wait until his body comes back around and is in line with home plate. Since this takes extra time, force production is lost since velocity is produced by how fast the pitcher can move his body into landing. 

Pitchers who turn away from the plate should use the off-season to get comfortable so that their front shoulder and front hip stay in more of a direct line with home plate. This will not only improve force production but will improve ball control.

Video analysis is the key to pitching improvement. And so isn't building functionial strength and flexibility. This is what I have been focusing on in our Explosively Pitching DVD program since 2004.  We teach parents how to help their sons use their bodies to pitch instead of just their arms. And how to get specifically stronger for pitching without losing flexibility. Not only does this improve velocity but reduces the risk of arm injuries. http://www.pitching.com/products/

"My 14 year old son's velocity jumped 12 mph, his control improved dramatically and his arm pain vanished. For the first time since he has been pitching, he finally understands what he is doing...what causes the ball to do what it does and how his body functions to be effective...now that is priceless."