Most of our 10U pitchers still grip the ball w/multiple fingers due to the size of their hands. I’m assuming this is a normal progression. We discuss and show them 2 seam and 4 seam fastball grips but tell them to stay with what is most comfortable at this point. I’m wondering what is the best way to introduce a change up grip at this age given they are using most of their hand to grip- or is it too early for that?
Ten is a bit young. I would wait until next year. Focus on locating the fastball and just keeping it down until ahead in the count.
It is easy to throw an all finger or 3-finger change-up. Just throw it like you are throwing an egg so you do not break the egg. Let the ball gradually release so it is in contact with the fingers as long as possible. So it’s like releasing it giving someone a “high five” at ball release.
Try to resist snapping the wrist. A stiffer wrist is much better.
But above all things do not slow down the arm or body. Let them know they are just throwing a slow fastball…killing the velocity with their grip.
Pedro Martinez said that is why God gave him long fingers so he could keep the ball on the fingers longer. I do remember seeing kids show me a circle change and they would show me the circle made by the thumb and index finger but did not know how to release the ball, nor were they holding the ball correctly. I just never thought the grip (circle Change) should be forced. The grip and release are more important then making a circle. just a thought
Worked with my 10 year old last night on the change up. Stressed a loose, soft grip w/fingers surrounding the ball and a high 5 type release. Worked really well. He could really see when he threw a nice one how much the grip softened the pitch. Thanks for the advice.
