Pitchers Bullpen Options (March 2023)

Please continue working bullpens to between 40-50 pitches (Assuming that you've been having bullpens working your pitch count up).  Work on varying pitch speed utilizing your Fastballs and Change-ups.  College Pitchers should be near a 80 pitch bullpen by the end on the month as games are beginning.

Pitchers should be working into a long toss before bullpens and on alternate days according to their individualized programs. (Extend as needed).  By Mid-March, all Pitchers should be mixing in Breaking Balls and identifying the difference in velocity between fastball variations and their change.  We are looking for a 10-12 MPH differential between your four seam fastball and change-up.  Begin manipulating fastball grips to zones 1 and 3 (Run vs. Tail) for strikes.

When throwing LIVE, recognize those using a "launch angle theory" or upper-cut swing.  We need to hit our spots in zones 7,8, and 9 with effective breaking balls to zone 3 or 3+.

Warm Weather Bullpens in Spring 2023-

As a Batter, when you hear a Coach talking about first pitch strikes, you know you are likely to get a pitch to hit and can often anticipate what that first pitch will be.  Therefore, we encourage our advanced Pitchers to work to a 1-2 count with their first three pitches.  Below, choose a type of hitter and identify target zones.  ALWAYS PITCH TO YOUR STRENGTHS.  Track your pitches and zones to determine strengths and weaknesses.   MOSTLY PITCHES FROM STRETCH / SLIDE-STEP for time.

9 8 7     Right Handed Batter

6 5 4     Hitter Classification;   Upper-Cut  (Add set-time variations)

3 2 1     Pitch 1-          Pitch 2-          Pitch 3-

7 8 9     Left Handed Batter

4 5 6     Hitter Classification;   Upper-Cut  (Hold runner on 2nd)

1 2 3     Pitch 1-          Pitch 2-          Pitch 3-   

9 8 7     Right Handed Batter

6 5 4     Hitter Classification;   Dead-Pull   (Add set-time variations)

3 2 1     Pitch 1-          Pitch 2-          Pitch 3-

7 8 9     Left Handed Batter

4 5 6     Hitter Classification;   Dead-Pull   (Add set time variations)

1 2 3     Pitch 1-          Pitch 2-          Pitch 3-

9 8 7     Right Handed Batter

6 5 4     Hitter Classification;   Make-Hit   (Hold runner at 1st)

3 2 1     Pitch 1-          Pitch 2-          Pitch 3-   

9 8 7     Right Handed Batter

6 5 4     Hitter Classification;   Rotary-Hand Separation  (Hold runner)

3 2 1     Pitch 1-          Pitch 2-          Pitch 3-

7 8 9     Left Handed Batter

4 5 6     Hitter Classification;   Skilled  (Add set time variations)

1 2 3     Pitch 1-          Pitch 2-          Pitch 3-

Suggestions for the upcoming 2023 Season,

1. Warm-ups should be extended based on weather conditions. Please do not pitch in sub-freezing temperatures.  Once your area reaches the high 60's, outside throwing becomes a viable option.
2. Focus on CONSISTENT pitching mechanics via Delivery Drills.
3. Sprints, sprints, and a few more sprints!!!  Get your cardio where it needs to be.
4. Hurry and Hop zones, lead leg, weight transfer, and pick drills on delivery drill days.
5. Continue strength training 3x-5x per week as needed based on your individual plan.
6. Visualization techniques for Hitters and Pitchers. Envision success.
7. Practice Hard because you never know who is watching.