Things You'll Need:
- Clipboard
- Baseballs
- Baseball Glove
- Video Camera
- Speed Gun
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Step 1
Focus your pitcher's attention on the boundaries of home plate. A significant number of pitchers fail at the professional level not because of physical skills but a command of the strike zone. Tools like the Ultimate Pitcher's and Catcher's Plate help focus a pitcher's eyes to the outlines of home base. See the Resources section below for a link.
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Step 2
Record your pitcher during practice and bullpen sessions. A video recorder placed behind the mound can be used to monitor a pitcher's throwing motion and body mechanics on every pitch.
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Step 3
Experiment with alternative pitches to the standard fast ball. Most MLB pitchers have three or four pitches that they can rely upon during a game. Work with your pitcher on developing a breaking pitch like a curve ball or slider to change the pace of the game.
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Step 4
Develop a lower body exercise regimen for your pitcher. Successful pitchers rely largely on a strong leg kick and push off of the mound to gain more power on each throw.
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Step 5
Observe your pitcher's finger location during practice to ensure accuracy on each throw. As a pitching coach, you need to get your pitcher to throw their specialty pitches the same way each time. A good way to accomplish this is to have the pitcher show you finger location before throwing the ball.
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Step 6
Help your pitcher get more comfortable by having him work with the same catcher in practice as in games. Pitchers and catchers need to build a close relationship to ensure pitch placement and the ability to catch base runners stealing. Your role as pitching coach is made easier with a catcher who understands a pitcher's particular talents.
