Pitching Mechanics 101

Quick Intro:
Every great pitcher—no matter their age—starts with the same thing: balance. If your mechanics are off, it doesn’t matter how strong your arm is. Here’s how to build a solid foundation on the mound.

⚾️ What Are “Good Mechanics”?

Good pitching mechanics help you throw strikes consistently, protect your arm, and increase velocity over time. They’re not about being flashy—they’re about repeating a smooth, powerful motion from start to finish.

For youth pitchers, it all starts with one thing: balance at the top of the leg lift. Without it, everything else falls apart.

🛠️ 3 Simple Drills to Improve Pitching Mechanics

1. Balance Point Drill
🔧 What it works on: Stability & control at the top of your delivery
📍 How to do it:

• Get into your windup or stretch.

• Lift your front leg and pause for 2–3 seconds at the top.

• Keep your head still and weight centered over your back leg.

• Repeat 5–10 times before throwing.
  ✅ Goal: Build muscle memory and stability so you’re not rushing your motion.

2. Towel Drill (Without a Ball)
🔧 What it works on: Full-body mechanics & proper arm path
📍 How to do it:

• Fold a small towel and hold it like a ball.

• Go through your full pitching motion, aiming to "snap" the towel into a glove or pillow in front of you.

• Focus on using your lower body, keeping your front side closed, and driving toward your target.
  ✅ Goal: Reinforce full delivery mechanics without worrying about the ball.

3. Stick Landing Drill
🔧 What it works on: Proper finish & front-side stability
📍 How to do it:

• After throwing a pitch (or dry rep), hold your landing for 2 seconds.

• Make sure your chest is over your front knee and you're balanced.
  ✅ Goal: Helps pitchers feel what a strong, controlled finish looks like.

🧢 Gear You’ll Need

These drills don’t require much, but having the right setup makes a difference:

• Pitching Towel – Any hand towel or small athletic towel works

• Portable Pitching Target or Net – Great for indoor or backyard work

• Flat Ground Space – A good pair of turf shoes helps
  👉 [Insert affiliate links here for towel, target/net, turf shoes]

🎯 Why This Matters

When you focus on balance, you give yourself the chance to repeat your motion. That’s how you start throwing strikes—and keep your arm healthy for the long run.

🎥 Want to See It in Action?

Here’s a solid video breakdown with additional drills:
👉 Youth Pitching Mechanics - Coach Dan Blewett

Pro Tip:
Pitching is a full-body movement. If your legs, hips, or core aren’t involved, your arm ends up doing all the work. That’s how injuries happen. Use these drills to keep your body in sync.