From Good to Great: Why Pitch Sequencing Matters
You’ve got a blazing fastball and a curveball that buckles knees. But are you truly maximizing your potential on the mound? The secret weapon of elite pitchers isn’t just about *what* pitches they throw, but *when* and *why* they throw them. This is the art of pitch sequencing, and it’s the key to transforming from a thrower to a true pitcher.
Understanding the Batter’s Mindset
Pitch sequencing is all about disrupting the hitter’s timing and expectations. Batters are constantly trying to anticipate what’s coming next. If you become predictable, even the best stuff can get hammered. Effective sequencing keeps them guessing, off-balance, and ultimately, striking out.
Essential Pitch Sequencing Strategies
- Establish the Fastball: Early in the count, show off your fastball. This lets the batter know you’re not afraid to challenge them and sets the foundation for your other pitches.
- Change Speeds: Don’t just throw fastballs and curveballs. Varying speeds, even within the same pitch type, is crucial. A slightly slower fastball after a blazing one can be just as effective as a changeup.
- Work the Edges: Don’t always aim for the heart of the plate. Move the ball around, working the inside and outside corners, and up and down in the zone. This forces the hitter to react, rather than simply waiting for a pitch in their sweet spot.
- Set-Up Pitches: Think of each pitch as setting up the next. A fastball inside might make a slider away more effective. A curveball in the dirt might make a high fastball look even faster.
- The “Out” Pitch: When you have two strikes, have a go-to pitch you’re confident in. This could be your best pitch, or the pitch that’s been most effective against that particular batter in that at-bat.
- Read the Hitter’s Swing: Pay close attention to the hitter’s body language and swing. Are they early or late on your fastball? Are they lunging at breaking balls? Use this information to adjust your sequencing.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Double Up: Sometimes, throwing the same pitch twice in a row, especially if it’s unexpected, can be highly effective.
Example Sequencing Scenarios
Scenario 1: Power Hitter (Right-Handed)
- Fastball, inside corner (for a strike)
- Changeup, low and away (to change speeds and location)
- Slider, down and in (a “backdoor” slider, trying to catch the corner)
- Fastball, high and tight (to elevate after the low pitches)
Scenario 2: Contact Hitter (Left-Handed)
- Curveball, for a strike (to start with a different look)
- Fastball, outside corner (to challenge them away)
- Fastball, inside corner (to change eye level and location)
- Changeup, low and away (if they seem to be sitting fastball)
Practice and Refinement
Mastering pitch sequencing takes practice and observation. Talk to your catcher, coaches, and watch how successful pitchers work. Keep a pitching journal to track what works and what doesn’t. With dedication, you’ll develop the mental game to complement your physical skills and become a dominant force on the mound!
