You’d think most kids would understand what they’re actually doing when they throw a baseball. Sadly, many don’t. In fact, most young players know more about what they should be doing than what they actually are doing.
This is surprising in today’s age of technology. With cell phones and video cameras in every pocket, it baffles me that more kids don’t record themselves throwing. They’ll take pictures of their food, post silly videos online, and record anything for entertainment—yet rarely stop to watch themselves pitch.
When I work with new clients, I usually film their second session. Without fail, their reaction to the analysis is shock. Almost every pitcher believes they’re doing things correctly—until they see the video.
The Illusion of the “Power Position”
Most instructors and pitching coaches teach the power position—the idea that pitchers should hit specific checkpoints when the front foot lands. Where’s the throwing elbow? Where’s the wrist? Where’s the weight?
You’d expect most pitchers to know the answers. But the reality? A huge percentage don’t.
So whose fault is that? The pitcher’s? The parents? The coaches? Honestly, it’s a bit of all three.
Overcomplicating Pitching
Here’s the truth: we’ve made pitching far too complicated. YouTube videos, gurus, and “expert” opinions pile on conflicting advice about where the body should be in each phase of the throw.
But here’s a simpler way to look at it: pitch the same way you throw.
Unfortunately, fear of arm injuries has turned pitching into something almost taboo at the youth level. I’ve even spoken to parents who said they won’t let their son pitch until he’s 10—or that he can’t throw a curveball until he shaves.
But here’s the problem: when kids finally do pitch, they often do something completely different than when they throw on flat ground. I call this the “strike syndrome.” Instead of throwing naturally, they change everything just to try to throw a strike. That’s when mechanics break down and injuries creep in.
Four Throws, One Motion
Every throw should be executed the same way, no matter what the lower half is doing. That’s why I have my pitchers practice four different throws:
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Crow hop
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No stride
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Slide step
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Normal pitch from the stretch
The point is simple: the upper body mechanics should remain the same no matter how the pitcher gets forward. The arm action, timing, and finish must stay consistent.
After each variation, we measure:
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Did the arm come through the same way?
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Was the finish the same across all four throws?
If not, something’s off—and that means it’s time to adjust.
Making Adjustments
It’s tough to change mechanics mid-season, which is why these four throws are so valuable. They help pitchers recognize differences in their motion and make small, smart adjustments before bad habits (and injuries) take hold.
The lesson is clear: a pitcher has to understand his own throw. When the throws start to look and feel different, that’s the signal—something’s wrong, and it’s time to fix it.