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Mechanics Primer
This page scratches the surface of some of our philosophies regarding the mechanical aspect of pitching. If you have any questions or comments, please e-mail us (link below).
Introduction
This is a brief overview of the key fundamentals
needed to develop proper mechanics. As the saying goes: "Baseball is 80%
mental," and I am a firm believer in this statement. At the same time,
mentally understanding mechanics makes up a good portion of this 80%. Whether we
as pitchers know it or not, good mechanics lead to not only increased velocity,
better control, and decreased wear and tear on the arm, but they also create a
greater sense of confidence within each and every one of us. When a young
pitcher takes the mound with a sense of mechanical excellence, he knows that he
is getting every thing he can out of his body, not leaving anything to spare.
Throughout the following text I will identify and briefly explain these key
fundamentals.
- Brett Gray
Click here to open a new window of mechanics photos or link to the Photo Gallery above after reading the sections.
Balance Point
This is where pitching mechanics begin to take form. The balance point is more easily achievable from the stretch then the full wind-up. While in the stretch, we come set with the feet shoulder width apart, and hands in a comfortable position at least four inches away from the chest. We then shift the weight to the backside, pick up closed with a dead foot, all the while maintaining balance over the center of the body. From the full wind-up a pitcher must begin by stepping back or to the side with the glove side foot. We then pivot with the other, and pick up closed by squaring off our route to the balance point. While in the process of achieving the balance point, the hands must remain at least four inches away from the body so not to tie our selves up. When we reach the balance point, eyes and shoulders remain level and in the tunnel.
Separation and Stride
The next step has two parts that must work in rhythm with each other so to create a consistent tempo throughout our delivery. Separation is the parting of the hands, and proceeding in opposite directions. The lead arm creates direction toward home plate while the throwing arm makes a half circle action toward second base. As this is taking place we are also beginning our stride toward home. The key to the stride is allowing the majority of our body weight to remain on the backside. The easy way to explain this is to say the front side is pulling us toward the catcher, and we are not pushing off. During the stride we must remain closed down and through, so not to lose the power of our hips. If this phase is down properly and with rhythm, the throwing arm should reach the top of the circle at the exact time the lead foot plants (POWER POSITION.)
Transfer and Explosion
After we have reached the power position, we now attempt to generate power toward the plate. From the power position we begin our weight transfer forward, while at the same time allowing our hips to explode, and driving our lead elbow into our body (NOT FLYING OPEN.) The best way to think of this is staying inside an imaginary tunnel between you to your catcher.
Extension
If we have allowed our hips to explode, our lead elbow to stay inside the tunnel, and our weight to transfer forward, then we have allowed our arm to propel forward into a good position. Once we have gotten to here the only thing left to do is extend and release the ball. In order to create extension, we must allow the plant leg to act as shock absorber. This means that it absorbs our body weight, and at the same time remains firm. We do not want the plant leg to be stiff and straight or to collapse making us run out of our finish. As our lead leg is absorbing our body weight, we are allowing our upper half to extend toward the catcher creating a release point beside the beak of our cap. Through extension we become closer to the plate, increase whip action, and create downward angle. All three of these things give us more of an advantage when going to battle with the hitter.
As I have mentioned above, this is a very brief overview of the fundamentals involved with proper mechanics. We will include a complete mechanics guide with every Custom Development Program that will elaborate immensely on all of these areas. If you have any questions or comments concerning mechanics, or pitching in general please feel free to throw it our way at: