Using a slide-step when pitching from the stretch? Next, the front leg should pivot back towards the thigh of the back leg, thus displacing weight onto the back leg, providing the first balance point.Īlso, pitchers should remain in the stretch with runners on third with less than two outs, as well as with the bases loaded with a 3-2 count and two outs, unless it will upset the pitcher's rhythm. The pitcher should come to a stop with his hands between the chest and the chin, so he doesn't bring his hands up when he starts his motion.īouncing the hands in this manner is a common fault which causes the pitcher to not get the ball out of the glove and up to the cocked position quickly enough. When there are runners on base and you're pitching out of the stretch, you should hold the ball in your throwing hand, while choosing the same grip every time so as not give it away to the hitter. Pitchers must make sure to practice it often.

Pitching from the stretch is a little different than pitching from the wind-up. If you believe adding velocity could be critical to your success, check out my proven programs for pitchers of all ages.

Big league pitchers spend far more time preparing to pitch than actually pitching. To get to the next level, preparation matters. ATTENTION PITCHERS: One of the big misconceptions in baseball is that playing the game keeps you in shape to pitch.