Precision Of Pitching Essay

Precision of Pitching In the game of baseball, the pitcher is one of the most vital players on the team. He must follow a precise sequence of steps to throw the pitch the way he had intended to. The best way for a pitcher to throw hard and throw strikes is to choose the proper stance and pitch, execute the pitch, and follow through into an athletic fielding position.
Before the pitcher steps on the mound, he must first decide what type of stance he needs to be in. If there is a runner on base, he will be in the stretch so he will be able to keep the runners from stealing bases. However, if there are no runners on base, he will be in the wind-up. Once the pitcher is on the rubber he will then look at the catcher to receive his signal. The …show more content…
The first step of the pitcher’s delivery is the leg lift. The pitcher will bring his leg up to where his thigh is parallel or slightly above parallel to the ground. His calf and foot should be relaxed and perpendicular to the ground. The purpose for the leg lift is to generate potential energy for maximum pitching velocity. Proceeding the leg lift the pitcher must drive toward the plate and separate his throwing arm from his glove. These two actions must take place at the same time for the pitcher to maintain his momentum. The pitcher will bend his back leg and push off of the mound toward the catcher. He will simultaneously separate his hands to get into throwing position. Now the pitcher will move his energy toward the strike zone by striding forward. This is where the pitcher will generate most of his velocity. It is also vital for him to stride as straight as possible so the flight of the ball will be straight toward the plate. Now that the front foot has landed, he will begin to bring the ball forward. The pitcher’s front hips will rotate to his glove side, developing more velocity. Once the pitcher’s hips have opened, he will begin to extend his throwing arm forward. Now the pitcher must keep his front shoulder in line with the plate by tucking his glove hand into his body. He will release the ball in front of his front