In the course of any baseball game, there are many factors that can affect a pitch. There is crowd noise, sun, wind, cold, insects and so forth. Any number of things can throw off a pitch. In fact, it's guaranteed that the ball isn't going to go where you want it to go every time. However, this doesn't mean you can't throw each pitch perfectly. Mastering pitch mechanics, understanding every aspect of the throwing motion and knowing the different grips will put you on the path to perfection.
Learn the Basics
Learning and understanding the mechanics of throwing a baseball is important. Knowing the correct technique at the beginning will prevent problems in the future. The two most important aspects the pitching motion are wind-up and follow-through. A lot of young pitchers starting out run into the same mistake. They don't work on the lower half of their body. If you watch a major league pitcher, you'll see him driving every pitch from his legs. This leg drive coupled with the uncoiling of the upper body produces the torque needed to deliver an effect pitch. By developing leg and upper body strength at the same time, you will get the max out of your mechanics.
Develop muscle memory
Every pitcher worth his salt holds themselves accountable for every pitch they throw. This is where muscle memory comes into play. Once you learn a certain pitch, it is up to you to remember how you did it. The best way to do this is look for landmarks. Are your hands set at the right height? What about the leg kick? Do you feel where your arm angle is? Can you feel the pull in your arm the second before accelerating through the pitch? What about the grip? All these are important factors when delivering the perfect pitch every time. Focus and remember the different feelings that you get when you throw one pitch from another. Noticing the difference between a good pitch and a bad pitch will bring you closer to being perfect.
Be a Grip Master
Learn the proper grips. If you want the ball to sink, make sure you're holding the ball correctly. Same thing goes for the curve and change up. It's amazing what a ball can do if your fingers are situated at the right points on a baseball. It's seems magical but it's very scientific. Walking around the house with a baseball constantly practicing grips will help you to remember which grip is which but it will also help with the muscle memory. Ultimately, you'll want to be able to grip the ball the right way in pitch darkness or with your eyes closed. In other words, be the ball.
Remember, perfection takes time. Be practical, stay in shape and practice the right way. Learn the fundamentals and enjoy the journey.
 | Choosing baseball gloves is a question of getting the right size and glove style for your position. Most players prefer certain types of designs, such as open or closed webs and backs. |
Do you need help learning how to throw baseball pitches? This step-by-step guide will tell you all the mechanics of pitching a baseball properly. |
 | Baseball gloves come in a bewildering variety. Learn how to spot the quality gloves and to pass up the bad ones. |
Do you know how to break in a baseball glove? Chances are, you've heard about more than one way to do it. |
Pitchers who know how to throw a sinker can keep 'the ball low in the zone, resulting in a lot of ground balls. It's a devestating weapon in a pitching arsenal. |
