Stop Throwing, Start *Pitching*: The Importance of Location
You can have a blazing fastball, but if you’re leaving it over the heart of the plate, you’re going to get shelled. True pitching mastery isn’t just about velocity; it’s about precise location. Hitting your spots consistently is what separates good pitchers from great ones. This post will give you actionable drills and a mindset shift to help you dominate the strike zone.
Why Location is King (Even More Than Velocity)
Think about it: a perfectly placed fastball on the black, even at a slightly lower velocity, is much harder to hit than a straight, center-cut fastball at 95 mph. Location disrupts a hitter’s timing and forces them to hit your pitch, not theirs. It allows you to:
- Control the Count: Getting ahead in the count with well-located pitches puts you in the driver’s seat.
- Generate Weak Contact: Even if they make contact, a pitch on the edges is more likely to result in a ground ball or pop-up.
- Set Up Your Off-Speed Pitches: A well-located fastball makes your curveball, changeup, or slider even *more* devastating.
- Keep Hitters Off-Balance: Varying locations keeps hitters guessing and prevents them from sitting on one spot.
Drill #1: The Towel Drill (for Precision)
This classic drill is simple but incredibly effective for improving your command. All you need is a towel and a target (a catcher, a net, or even a marked spot on a wall).
- The Setup: Hang a towel vertically over your target, dividing it into sections (e.g., inside corner, outside corner, low, high).
- The Focus: Go through your normal pitching motion, but instead of focusing on velocity, zero in on hitting a specific section of the towel.
- The Repetitions: Perform 15-20 throws per section, focusing on consistent mechanics and hitting your spot.
- Progression: As you improve, make the sections of the towel smaller to challenge your precision.
Drill #2: The Long Toss, Short Toss Location Game
Long toss is crucial for arm strength, but it can also be a powerful tool for location training. This drill combines long toss with a focused short-toss session.
- Long Toss Warm-up: Start with your regular long toss routine, gradually increasing distance.
- The Transition: As you move closer, start incorporating a target (your catcher or a partner).
- The Game: Have your partner call out a location (e.g., “inside corner, low”) *before* each throw. Your goal is to hit that spot.
- Short Toss Focus: After long toss, move to your normal pitching distance and continue the location game, emphasizing precision and repeatability.
The Mental Game of Location: Visualization and Routine
Pitching location isn’t just physical; it’s mental. You need to see the pitch before you throw it.
- Visualization: Before each pitch, close your eyes and visualize the ball hitting the exact spot you want. See the trajectory, the break, and the catcher’s mitt receiving it perfectly.
- Routine: Develop a consistent pre-pitch routine that helps you lock in your focus. This could include taking a deep breath, visualizing the pitch, and focusing on a specific cue (like “staying closed” or “driving to the target”).
- Positive Self-Talk: Instead of thinking “don’t miss,” focus on “hit the spot.” Positive reinforcement is crucial for building confidence.
From Practice to the Mound: Bringing it All Together
The key is to consistently practice these drills and mental techniques. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Improving pitch location takes time and dedication. But with consistent effort, you’ll transform from a thrower into a true pitcher, commanding the strike zone and dominating hitters. Embrace the challenge, and get ready to see your pitching game reach new heights!
