| |
|
| |
Thursday, June 1
FOUR SEAM FASTBALL
FOUR SEAM FASTBALL - Fingers together atop long seam, thumb directly below on opposite long seam. Downward wrist flick on release gives an upward spin on the front side of the ball. Four seams catch air, giving the ball as much lift as possible.
TWO SEAM FASTBALL
TWO SEAM FASTBALL - Fingers on the narrowest seams, thumb directly below on a curved seam. Downward wrist flick on release pulls fingers along seam to give an upward front side spin. With only two seams catching air, the ball drops quicker than a four seam fastball
CHANGE-UP
CHANGE-UP - Throw exactly like a fastball but tuck the ball in tighter (full tuck or partial) so it arrives at 75% speed. Many grips, most common is Circle Change - three fingers on top, thumb moves to side, edge of pinky opposite thumb. Ball can be oriented as shown or like a four-seam - either way, all fingers have a good grip.
Practice makes Perfect!
Practice, practice, practice!
Even professional ballplayers practice everyday.
Be sure to be on time and participate in all team practices.
Show your coaches you want to play in the games.
If possible practice on your own with friends or family.
The more you practice, the better you will get!
Play Hard and Have Fun!
Hustle, hustle, hustle on and off the field.
Give it your best effort!
Run out ground balls and show team spirit!
Always show good sportsmanship, win or lose!
Keep Your Eye on the Ball!
Whether you are "at bat" or in the field, always keep your eye on the ball!
In the field, you need to be in a "ready" position for a throw or a hit and know what to do with the ball if it is thrown or hit to you.
At bat, you need to watch the ball all the way from the pitcher's hand and see your bat hit the ball!
Go to the Ball!
Whether you are fielding a grounder, fly ball or a throw, go to the ball.
Look it into your glove.
Firstbaseman should stay back and stretch as the ball approaches, but not too early.
Level Swings = Line Drives
Keys to hitting include:
Good balance in your stance
As the pitcher goes into his delivery, bring your bat back in a ready position
A short downward approach to the ball
Keep your head steady and eyes on the ball
A level agressive swing and smooth follow through.
Get into your Fielding Position
In the infield, you should have your knees bent and glove out in front of you.
When fielding a grounder, your glove should be down, your throwing hand should on top, creating a "gator" mouth with your glove.
Field the ball out in front of you.
Your head should level, your eyes straight ahead, look the ball into your glove.
Once the ball is in your glove, step to where you are throwing, follow through on your throw!
When in Doubt.......Get Down and Dirty!
Slide feet first, into the base to avoid a tag! Never head first!
|
|
|
|
