Purpose
Pitchers develop forearm and wrist strength. They also improve timing of lower body and upper body.
Drill Setup
- Pitchers stand at three-quarters of regular pitching distance (25-30 feet) holding a weighted ball.
- Catcher is standing up.
How it Works
- Pitchers now take their full pitching wind-up and throw the weighted ball to the catcher.
- Catcher throws the ball back and pitcher repeats the motion.
- Complete 3 sets of 5-10 pitches
Coaching Tips
- The weighted ball can be purchased from a sporting goods store. Or you can make your own by driving finishing nails into a softball.
- Watch pitcher’s mechanics – good pivot, back leg up, good stride with front foot and good drag of back foot.
- Pitcher should be trying to keep the ball between the catcher’s waistline and chest area.
- Also, pay attention to the rotation on the ball – the more rotation the better.
- Pitcher should be throwing at 70-75%.