Master Your Change-Up: Tips from Kyle Hendricks

In this video, Kyle Hendricks shares his insights on developing an effective change-up, a crucial pitch for any baseball player. Whether you’re a young player just starting or looking to refine your skills, Hendricks provides valuable advice on grip, technique, and how to make your change-up a weapon on the mound.

Key Takeaways and Drills

Here are the main points to help you improve your change-up:

• Grip Matters: Experiment with different grips, focusing on minimizing velocity by using your thumb and pinky. Adjust the grip as your hands grow.
• Feel is Crucial: The change-up is a feel pitch. Consistent practice through catch will help you develop comfort and control.
• Fastball First: A change-up is only effective if you can establish your fastball. Use the change-up to work off your fastball.
• Two-Seam vs. Four-Seam: Use a four-seam change-up to take velocity off and a two-seam to induce movement and strikeouts.
• Maintain Deception: Ensure every pitch looks the same coming out of your hand to avoid telegraphing the change-up.

Ultimately, developing a great change-up involves understanding the nuances of grip, feel, and fastball command. Hendricks emphasizes the importance of practice and adjusting your technique based on the feedback you receive from hitters.

For more tips on improving your baseball skills, visit BaseballSkillsHub.com.