The High-Level Pitching Formula: Accuracy PLUS Movement, Velocity, Change of Speed

The High-Level Pitching Formula: Accuracy PLUS Movement, Velocity, Change of Speed

When it comes to building a top-tier college pitching staff, the four wow factors of pitching—Accuracy, Movement, Velocity, and Change of Speed—are essential. Among these, Accuracy stands as the ACE, the cornerstone of effective pitching. I will never forget Lisa Fernandez, legendary Olympic pitcher and long-time assistant coach at UCLA, who once emphasized that a mere six-inch difference could turn a ground ball to second base into a home run over the right field fence.

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Become a Movement Pitch Expert by Doing This

Become a Movement Pitch Expert by Doing This

For example, when throwing a rise ball, a pitcher must deliver the ball on the “upswing” of her arm circle, meaning a little bit later. To make it easier to get her palm underneath the ball and facing the sky, she must lean her body back towards second base at delivery. The reverse is true for a drop ball. She must lean forward to get her hand on top of the ball, palm facing downwards.

Once her body position and ball trajectory is correct, the Magnus Effect becomes relevant.

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