I believe that every pitcher has different strengths. There is no “one size fits all” pitching style. My philosophy focuses specifically on mechanics, understanding, and attitude.
I place a strong focus on the basic mechanics. Correct mechanics help to increase accuracy and decrease injuries. Once the pitcher grasps the basics and throws the ball with control, we work to increase speed. Increasing speed continues to be an area of focus throughout a pitcher’s career. Once she masters a pitch, and uses it effectively in a competitive setting, only then will she learn a new pitch. A pitcher’s progression depends upon how quickly she adapts to the new mechanics and how hard she works in between lessons.
As a pitcher learns and masters the pitching mechanics, I work to get her to understand why she does certain drills and why she makes different adjustments. If she can understand why a pitch isn’t working, she can make adjustments on her own to make it work. Since I won’t always be there to tell her what to change, I want her to understand what is going wrong and how she can fix it on her own. Aside from understanding what makes a pitch work, I also want a pitcher to understand the game. I want her to understand what pitch to throw and when. We analyze situations, discuss options, and decide which is best. I want pitchers to think for themselves and make decisions about what action will get them the best outcome.
Along with understanding the mechanics and the game, I work with pitchers on attitude. I teach pitchers about their role on the team and their job on the field.
My goal is to have each pitcher throw with discipline and confidence, and also to feel that she is in control of the game when she is in the circle. Many times, when things go wrong on the field, a pitcher lets her emotions take over. She tries to throw faster and gets out of control. Ultimately, my goal is to have each pitcher throw relaxed with self-confidence, to work hard, and to pitch smart.
