Must-Do Pitching Drills for Youth Pitchers

Overview

• Speaker: Coach Jason from Honor Pitching Development
• Target Audience: Youth pitchers (ages 8-13) and their coaches
• Objective: Teach essential pitching drills to develop young pitchers' mechanics and pitching knowledge

Key Drills

1. Finish Drill

• Purpose: Develop pitching mechanics with an end goal in mind
• Technique:
  • Start with hips in a closed position
  • Transition to a split stance (ready and cocked phase)
  • Focus on external rotation of the arm
  • Jog the arm slowly, with a slight rock back from the pivot step
  • Keep everything centered and finish the pitch
• Key Tip: Keep the head still and maintain balance

2. Stride Separation Drill (Scarecrow Drill)

• Purpose: Develop stride separation and power position
• Technique:
  • Assume a comfortable stance
  • Bring arms up to power position
  • Engage the scaps slightly
  • Use elbows as a guide
  • Shift some weight to the back leg (quadricep)
  • Perform three repetitions before throwing the pitch
• Key Tip: Keep the head still and maintain balance through the finish

3. Low Balance Drive Drill

• Purpose: Develop balance and posture through pitching
• Technique:
  • Start at low balance break position
  • Thumbs inward
  • Put weight on the back leg
  • Move into stride separation
  • Follow through with pitch
• Key Tip: Maintain balance at the end to develop a balanced posture

4. Load and Go Drill

• Purpose: Develop lead leg block and hip flexor strength
• Technique:
  • Start at low balance break position
  • Use a three-pump build-up phase
  • Move into pitch delivery
• Key Tip: Simple execution; maintain balance at the end

Conclusion

• Emphasis: These drills are fundamental for youth pitchers
• Feedback: Viewers are encouraged to subscribe for more tips and drills
• Interactive Element: Questions and comments are welcomed

Note: Regular practice of these drills can significantly aid in the development of young pitchers, enhancing both their mechanics and pitching knowledge.