Successful pitching in baseball requires learning the proper techniques. The best way to master these techniques is through regular practice with coaching guidance. For young boys and girls just starting out, they'll need to learn the basics so that mistakes can be minimized. Here are several common ones to be aware of and corrective steps they can take.

How Can Players Prevent These Pitching Mistakes?

1. Improper Grip

It's not unusual for children who are still developing to grip the baseball incorrectly due to having smaller fingers. One effective way to counter this imbalance is by griping with three fingers. The thumb and two fingers should be located close to the middle of the ball. This position provides a strong starting point for releasing the pitch. As the player develops and maintains a regular practice schedule, they should begin transitioning to two fingers, which can help improve pitching.

2. Inconsistent Leg Lifts

This occurs when a pitcher brings their balance leg up to their chest but makes the same motion to their waist on the next pitch. The inconsistency can cause irregular pitching control and velocity. Coaches should advise their players to work on body balance by performing walking lunges and step-up exercises daily. Have your player work on being consistent with lifting the leg to the same height and speed with every pitch. For new players, the knee should be raised to the belt level until they become strong enough to raise it higher.

3. Shoulder and Body Misalignment

A player can lose much-needed velocity if they open up their shoulder area too soon before planting the foot. They can also lose velocity if they don't use the lower body to build up power for the pitch. Left-handed pitchers should keep their chest facing first base until the lead foot plants. Right-handed pitchers should face third base. This alignment helps the shoulder create a line from home to second base until the foot is planted, which helps increase pitch speed.

4. Follow-Through and Finish Failure

If the pitcher doesn't allow their throwing hand to finish between the knee and ankle, or if they don't bend their back, this can result in poor follow-through. The finish can also be affected if the pitcher lands on the heel instead of the inside ball of their plant foot, which can cause the knee to lock up and make the player straighten up too soon. To help prevent these positions, encourage the player to carry their body's momentum through the finish when practicing. Balancing exercises can also help young players develop better body control.

If you or your young player need space to practice pitching, come to Line Drive Indoor Batting in Jupiter, FL. This 8,000-square-foot facility offers top-of-the-line equipment, including the Rapsodo® pitching unit and a HitTrax® system that produces real-time stats and key performance metrics. From batting cages to sports camps, this center is the area's premier stop for baseball players wanting to improve their game. Call (561) 283-6614 and visit the website for more information.