Drive Mechanics

Fastpitch86 said:

Anybody using the softball power drive? If so, do you use it for drills, the entire lesson, etc. Looks like a good tool to instill good muscle memory.

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DD used one at a clinic last year. She didn't really care for it. She said it was too "clunky" and her push really didn't feel the same as when she pitches from the rubber. I can see where it would have merit for some but different strokes for different folks.

My DD has the tried one yet but see them at indoor facilities. Thought the concept was good but wasn't sure if it was good to use on a daily basis.

IMO... the cost/benefit just isn't there.

1) I prefer to see a pitcher find their natural center on every pitch.
2) It enforces a rolling start. Rolling starts include downward pressure of the heel and mid-foot. This is wasted energy with a very long/slow impulse.
3) I prefer a pitcher strikes the front of the plate with their drive foot.
4) It costs so freakin' much.

It is, however, a very firm... sprinter-block-like surface. But so is a plate... especially the ones with a divot in the front!

I have found... through much expense/experience that most devices that have been invented as aids are absolutely useless. Many instructors have a 'bag of tricks' that can create a wow factor for inexperienced players. Balls on stick, hockey pucks, weighted balls, foot-prisons, etc... are absolutely unnecessary.

It seems that people grow so impatient with the concept of actually pitching... or performing actual pitching motions... so they fill that void with fluffy drills and even fluffier training aids. Not being critical... just an observation over the years.

JUST MY OPINION.

I require the following:

1) A Ball
2) A Glove
3) Portable Pitching plate
4) Portable home plate

You'll find that these items are entirely consistent with equipment that is actually used in games. You'll also find that their combined cost can be less than that device.

I can't think of anyone whose kid I dislike so much that I would give my daughters very seldom used one to their parents. Let alone charge for it.

javasource said:

It seems that people grow so impatient with the concept of actually pitching... or performing actual pitching motions... so they fill that void with fluffy drills...

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Flamingos are feathery--not fluffy. Just say'n

JS, sprinter position.

At 12 O'Clock.

Back knee and throwing arm elbow in good alignment.

Knight... who am I looking at here?

javasource said:

Knight... who am I looking at here?

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Jamie Southern from Fresno State. It is a still shot of her as a RVP model pitcher.

Out in Left Field said:

Rita Lynn Gilman, PC for the Florida State pitcher and USA Player of the Year Lacey Waldrop, teaching the basics of footwork:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RtdCZyVUgsI&list=PLEA49B096D8A374DD

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Moderator ??? Please Remove this from here...add somewhere else ??? THX