Half Swing with Weighted Ball

Purpose

Pitchers develop forearm and wrist strength. They also improve timing of lower body and upper body.

Drill Setup

• Pitchers stand about halfway from normal pitching distance (15-20 feet) holding a weighted ball.
• Catcher is standing up.

How it Works

1. Pitcher makes a half-swing, bringing the pitching arm to 11 o’clock (without the full windup).
2. Pitcher releases the ball and follows through.
3. Catcher receives the pitch and throws the ball back.
4. 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.
• Look for good motion fundamentals, front leg up, arms even in the air, good plant, arm whips through. Pitcher should have a nice, short snap of the wrist and a good toe drag.
• Using a weighted ball is key as it will help the player strengthen their forearm, wrist and fingers which can lead to an increase in velocity.
• Pitchers should be pivoting on back toe to open hips – failure to open hips properly can decrease velocity.