Wouldn't it be nice to have solid fastball pitching tips to help you up your game? Ever ask yourself, "How can I improve command of my pitches?" Throwing a baseball or pitching a baseball (whichever you choose to call it) to a target that is 60ft 6in away and only a few inches in diameter is no small task. However, a baseball pitcher's ability to perform this task with precision will ultimately determine his success or failure.
Below are 7 great ways to help you improve command of not only your fastball, but any other baseball pitches that you might throw. Implement these fastball pitching tips into your throwing regimen and you'll see the difference they can make to your game.
1. HAVE A PURPOSE
Want to improve fastball command? Have a goal in mind every time you pick up a baseball. Every time you pick up a ball you have a chance to improve your location. Playing catch, throwing a bullpen in practice, or pitching in a game…it does not matter. Every throw gives you an opportunity to get better.
2. MAKE THEM COUNT
Make every throw count. Do not waste your time by throwing from different arm slots or trying different useless grips for fun and wonder why your location is not there on game day. You only have so many throws in your arm. Make them count.
3. REPEAT, REPEAT, REPEAT
Implement the same throwing mechanics on every practice throw that you would on the first pitch of a game. You will make a lot of practice throws in your lifetime. Why not use those throws to improve what will ultimately be the deciding factor in whether or not you are successful?
4. FOCUS, FOCUS, FOCUS
Pick out a specific spot on your target and focus on hitting that target with every single throw. Start when your partner is close and it’s easier to hit the target. Expect to hit your target every time, especially when you are close. This will build confidence in your ability to hit spots. Adjust your expectations somewhat when your target is far away; as it’s harder to hit that target the further back you go. But do not use that as an excuse to lose focus.
5. AIM SMALL, MISS SMALL
As cheesy and overused as this phrase is, it’s actually quite profound. Make your target as small and specific as you can; your misses to that target will be small as well and you will improve command.
6. VISUALIZE, VISUALIZE, VISUALIZE
Tell yourself what you want to do with the baseball and visualize it in your head and it will be easier for you to achieve it. If you can see yourself do it in your head, then you will be more likely to do it on the field.
7. BECOME A PERFECTIONIST
Expect to locate the ball exactly where you want to 100% of the time and nothing less. Always strive for perfection…but know that you will never attain it. You may ask why I would encourage you to spend so much time and energy on something that you will never be able to achieve. Because it will make you better and you will constantly be working harder to reach this unattainable goal. This takes time and maturity.
Follow these fastball pitching tips and you'll significantly increase your level of pitching performance.
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