Hitting Really Fast Pitchers

[BrianTx01]

In the last 12U tournament my DD's team was in we came across a pitcher that was throwing a legitimate 59-60 mph. I realize this is extremely uncommon and somewhat unbelievable but I used my Pocket Radar to record these numbers. Our girls were so far behind it wasn't even funny.

The question is how do you prepare for this kind of speed? I assume pitching machine is one option. Live pitching is best but our fastest pitcher tops out around 55 mph. Are there any other kinds of drills that can be used?

 

[efastball]

Math is your friend. Pitch 60 mph equivalent. Pitch/machine 55 from 10% closer. Pitch/machine 30 from halfway. etc.

Always do this when you have batting practice/cages - match the speed of the upcoming pitcher.

Also, make sure the kids begin their stride when the pitcher's arm is at 12 oclock or thereabouts.. Whichever part of the dial works when you are practicing.

 

[DrRiello]

In the last 12U tournament my DD's team was in we came across a pitcher that was throwing a legitimate 59-60 mph. I realize this is extremely uncommon and somewhat unbelievable but I used my Pocket Radar to record these numbers. Our girls were so far behind it wasn't even funny.

The question is how do you prepare for this kind of speed? I assume pitching machine is one option. Live pitching is best but our fastest pitcher tops out around 55 mph. Are there any other kinds of drills that can be used?

Consider moving your 55 throwing up a couple feet. Will simulate 60


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[_MIA_]

Best way to hit fast pitching in games (assuming your mechanics enables you to do so..) is to see more fast pitching in games...

 

[OsDad]

... I realize this is extremely uncommon and somewhat unbelievable...

Supposedly there was a 12u kid in College Station this last weekend touching that in games. The HC apologized to one opposing HC before bringing her in (they were already up) but said she really needs circle time because she has control issues lol.

 

[radness]

Bunting works on timing.

... keep on keep'n on reps !

 

[Strike2]

Yes, you can throw faster balls in the batting cage to help prepare for this one pitcher, but I'd not spend a whole lot of time worrying about an outlier. Train for what you're most likely to face. Within speeds of 60mph, I see more problems with batters not being able to adjust to slower pitching than vice-versa.

Was this really fast pitcher actually throwing consistent strikes, or were your batters chasing?

 

[_MIA_]

Supposedly there was a 12u kid in College Station this last weekend touching that in games...........................................................................because she has control issues

 

[Cannonball]

Besides changes in distance while practicing, you can have your team practice to start their load earlier and softer. If they are stagnant and see the heat, their chances of catching up are slim and none.

 

[Westwind]

Kind of what Cannonball said but said a different way: load slower and earlier.

Command drill is a tee drill with a stationary ball that I believe helps in addition to moving ball drills.