Greenmonsters
Wannabe Duck Boat Owner
OK, first I'll admit that I'm an ex-college BB catcher so I know that I'm a little out of my element here. That said, for better or worse, I'm working w/ Cs (DD included) and Ps on a new U14 travel team (all 14s FYI). Pitch repertoire varies by pitcher, but typically includes a decently commanded FB, workable change, and developing curve/screw +/- a drop, but no rises. I've been getting feedback from some of the Ps about not wanting to pitch up and in. By "up and in" in no way do I mean a brushback or beanball, just one ball up, one ball in from the top inside corner of the strike zone. I like to see this used as a waste pitch when ahead in the count to set up the low outside corner for later in the count.
Talked to several of the girls' pitching coaches (who I gladly leave all the pitching mechanics too) and their thoughts varied on the apparent reluctance of the girls to throw it - P worried about missing over the plate w/ a long-ball result, or fear of hitting the batter when missing in, or they don't think it will be effective (i.e., good hitters won't swing at it).
Until the rise develops, what/where else do you throw up to keep the hitters honest and not locking in low?
Interested in your thoughts and suggestions.
Tim
Talked to several of the girls' pitching coaches (who I gladly leave all the pitching mechanics too) and their thoughts varied on the apparent reluctance of the girls to throw it - P worried about missing over the plate w/ a long-ball result, or fear of hitting the batter when missing in, or they don't think it will be effective (i.e., good hitters won't swing at it).
Until the rise develops, what/where else do you throw up to keep the hitters honest and not locking in low?
Interested in your thoughts and suggestions.
Tim