The pitcher plays one of the most important roles on a baseball team. Developing the skill takes years, and it’s crucial to learn the right mechanics early on. If your child is receiving special instruction, you need to reinforce their training at home. By sticking to the tips below and working with their instructor, you’ll help them avoid injury and develop a powerful skill.

How to Teach Your Child to Pitch

1. Forget the Batter

One of the biggest distractions for a pitcher is the batter. They may crowd the plate, come in at different heights, and be more passive or aggressive while at bat. This can throw off a pitcher, so constantly remind them to forget the batter. They should focus solely on throwing strikes rather than striking the batter out. Have them pay attention exclusively to the catcher’s mitt and block out all other distractions.

2. Stick to the Fastball

Pitchers will want to develop a diverse set of pitches early on. However, it’s best that they start by mastering the fastball. Trying other baseball pitches like the curveball or slider can be problematic. They can put too much strain on the elbow, which can interfere with how your child’s body develops. The perfect fastball is enough to win games, so ensure they focus on it.

3. Practice Motion

The ideal pitch comes from one fluid motion and requires the whole body. Your child needs to balance, push off the rubber mat, release, follow through across their body, and finish toward the plate. This is something that takes time and repetition. Have them practice with and without the baseball until these mechanics become second nature.

If you want to help your child excel in baseball, enroll them at Swing Away Academy. Located in Riviera Beach, FL, their state-of-the-art training camp includes all the latest equipment to improve pitching, batting, and other baseball skills. They can learn from an instructor, or, if they’re simply looking for a fun afternoon, you can schedule time at the batting cages for a party. Explore their softball and baseball training facilities on their website and call (561) 568-8777 to speak with a representative.