Pitching mechanics are taught in pieces, not whole. This drill builds the motion in three stages so the pitcher can isolate and fix one piece at a time.
Equipment needed: A mound or flat area, 20 baseballs, a catcher, a net or wall 50 feet away.
Setup: Pitcher on the mound (or a flat area marked as a mound). Catcher 60 feet away. You’re watching from the side.
How to run it:
- Step 1: Balance Point Only (10 reps). Pitcher comes set, lifts to balance point (back leg off ground, weight on front leg), and holds for two seconds. No throw. You check hip and shoulder alignment.
- Step 2: Stride and Balance (10 reps). Pitcher comes set, lifts to balance point, strides, and pauses before arm action. Check that the stride is straight toward the plate.
- Step 3: Full Delivery (10 reps). Pitcher throws the ball fully. You’re watching arm slot, finish, and follow-through.
After 30 reps, the pitcher will have thrown 10 actual pitches from a mechanically sound position.
What to look for: Posture at balance point, stride direction, and front shoulder alignment. One mechanical breakdown at balance point ruins everything downstream.
Variation: For younger kids (13-14), use step 1 and 2 only (no throwing). For advanced pitchers, add velocity goals (hit 50 mph, then 55 mph).