02Crush
Way past gone
Stay Patient, Accept the innings that fall off as part of learning. Be slightly slower to change them up and try to give them a chance to work out of it. Not forever...But a little bit of a chance. They understand if they are not doing well. I usually tell them the hitters have figured out their stuff and we need to show a different look to the opponent. I never say you did a bad job b/c I will need them later in the day. I need the them to feel it was just a fact of life in this moment and that in a later moment they can and will do a good job. I do use some firm words sometimes but very rarely and usually between games when I can work with them to try and correct something. I also (and my opponents hate this) use every single one of my 3 mound meeting per game. Every time I do it I am glad b/c it helps settle down the pitcher at this age, allowing them to regain focus. It also allows me to have a private conversation that does not embarrass them in the process. I usually ask stupid things like...Do I have a booger hanging out of my nose...Does my breath smell bad...Or how was school this week....Did you see that girls shoe laces? Anything to get them to laugh or smile. When I see the smile I know they are back in the game, give them some short yet positive words and walk away...
Just let loose and keep them loose. Let them know you have confidence in them as a person and a player and you will see more consistency.
Just let loose and keep them loose. Let them know you have confidence in them as a person and a player and you will see more consistency.
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