Hello Readers!
My name is Joey Benitez, lead pitching instructor at Olympic Indoor Sports in Columbia, MD. After 14 years of pitching and 5 years of coaching, I wanted to share my thoughts around the 10-12 year old pitcher who is just starting out and trying to build a strong foundation:
Start with a Good Stance
Every pitch begins with your stance. Stand tall with your feet shoulder-width apart and your glove facing the target. Keep your weight balanced and relaxed. This helps you stay in control from the very first move.
Balance is Key
When your leg is lifted, pause for a moment. This is your balance point. Keep your head still and your eyes on the catcher. If you’re wobbly here, your pitch might go wild. Practice holding this position to build strength and control.
Use Your Hips and Shoulders
As you move forward, turn your hips and shoulders toward home plate. Your arm should stay back while your body leads the way. Think of your body like a rubber band—your lower half pulls first, then your arm follows. This helps you throw with more power and less stress on your arm.
Practice with Purpose
Don’t just throw to throw. Focus on one part of your mechanics each time you practice. Use drills to work on balance, accuracy, and timing. And always warm up properly to avoid injury.
Final Tip: Have Fun!
Pitching is a skill that takes time to master. Be patient, listen to your coach, and enjoy the process of getting better every day.