Pitching at 9 years old is a pivotal time where young players begin to refine their mechanics, develop more control, and start to understand the strategic aspects of pitching. Here are some pitching tips specifically tailored for 9-year-olds:
1. Focus on Proper Mechanics
- Basic Stance and Grip: Teach a balanced pitching stance with feet shoulder-width apart. Emphasize a comfortable grip on the baseball that allows for control and accuracy.
- Smooth Delivery: Focus on a smooth and controlled pitching motion. Encourage pitchers to step towards their target, rotate their hips and shoulders, and follow through with their throwing arm.
- Consistent Release Point: Stress the importance of releasing the ball from the same point with every pitch. Consistency in release helps with accuracy and prevents batters from predicting the pitch.
2. Developing Pitching Repertoire
- Fastball Focus: Start with mastering the fastball. Work on throwing it with proper mechanics and increasing velocity gradually as the pitcher develops strength.
- Introduction to Changeup: Introduce the changeup as an off-speed pitch. Emphasize maintaining arm speed while gripping the ball slightly differently to create deception and variation in speed.
3. Control and Accuracy
- Target Practice: Set up targets for pitchers to aim at during practice sessions. This could be a specific spot on a net or a designated strike zone. Target practice helps develop control over pitch placement.
- Work on Location: Teach pitchers to aim for different parts of the strike zone (inside, outside, high, low) to keep hitters off balance. Focus on hitting spots consistently.
4. Mental Approach
- Focus and Concentration: Encourage pitchers to stay focused on each pitch and visualize where they want the ball to go. Develop a pre-pitch routine that includes deep breathing and focusing on the catcher’s glove.
- Handling Pressure: Teach pitchers how to stay calm and composed in pressure situations. Emphasize that mistakes are part of learning and encourage a positive mindset.
5. Game Preparation
- Practice Game Situations: Incorporate game-like scenarios into practice sessions. Practice pitching with runners on base, executing pickoff moves, and fielding your position after pitching.
- Understanding Strategy: Teach pitchers to study opposing hitters and identify weaknesses. Introduce basic strategies like setting up hitters with pitch sequences and adjusting strategies based on game situations.
6. Coach’s Role
- Positive Reinforcement: Provide positive reinforcement and constructive feedback. Encourage effort and improvement, celebrating successes and learning opportunities equally.
- Monitor Arm Health: Keep track of pitch counts and monitor signs of fatigue or discomfort. Avoid overusing pitchers and prioritize their long-term arm health and development.
Conclusion
Pitching at 9 years old should focus on building a solid foundation of mechanics, control, and mental approach. By emphasizing proper technique, developing a repertoire of pitches, working on accuracy and control, and fostering a positive mindset, young pitchers can continue to grow and enjoy their development in the sport. With supportive coaching and structured practice, pitchers at this age can lay the groundwork for future success on the mound.
