Optimizing the Situation

It is easy for a pitcher to get lulled into the flow of the game and lose focus from what he is trying to accomplish on a given pitch. Every pitch has a purpose. If you make a pitch without a purpose, it is one step forward, two steps back. Before you know it, you've gone from a comfortable three-run lead with nobody on to a three-run lead with men on first and second and the top of the order dying to step in and face you.

Here are some tips to prevent from falling into this trap:

1) Know what your stuff is doing that day: If you are throwing 9/10 sliders for strikes and 3/10 fastballs for strikes, I'm not going to tell you to stop throwing fastballs. However, stop throwing first pitch fastballs. Getting ahead 0-1 is pivotal, and you need to do whatever it takes to get there. If you're struggling with fastball command during an outing, work on making adjustments in o-1, 1-2, 0-2 counts. If you figure it out in these counts, you get outs. If you continue to struggle that day, you optimize the situation by only falling to 1-1, 2-2 or 1-2. From these counts, you still have a good chance for positive results.

2) Stick to your strengths and adjust from there: If you've been throwing fastballs by guys all day, don't get fancy on 1-1, 2-1, 3-1. Challenge them. Throw a good fastball down in the zone, and you will be fine. The same goes for the other stuff. If your change-up is your best pitch that day, challenge a hitter with it 1-1, 2-1 and sometimes 3-1. Being 1-2 vs 2-1 or 2-2 vs. 3-1 gives you a far better chance to succeed. When you get to those counts, execute. The only reason I say "sometimes" a change-up on 3-1 is because you need to be willing to double up with it on 3-2. But, hey, if it is your strength, attack them with it.

3) Pitch inside with a purpose: It is one thing to hit a guy because he has been hugging the dish each AB, and it is another thing to hit him on an 0-2 count when you're in a jam during an inning. An 0-2 inside fastball is a great pitch! However, make sure that you intensify your focus and don't let the "slappy" lead-off hitter earn a free pass. You can do this by taking your eyes to the black of the plate and slowly raising them to the mitt. This eliminates the hitter altogether and allows you to focus solely on where you are going with the pitch. And if your command is on point, get it in on his hands, too. If he takes for a ball, you've got him set up for all of your pitches. If he swings, he'll pull it foul/hit a weak grounder. Either way, your pitch had a purpose and your next pitch will be better because of it.

4) Understand what the hitter is trying to accomplish: In chess, one strategy is to stand behind your opponent and look at the board from his view. This allows you to see the board from his perspective. This should also be done as a pitcher. As a new hitter is walking to the plate, understand the situation and his plan. Is it the 2nd inning, or the 7th? What's the score? What has he done well or struggled with previously? Knowing what the hitter is trying to do allows you as a pitcher to try and keep him from succeeding.

Example: 8th inning, runner on 3rd, 1 out and your team is up by one run. One important variable is, who is on deck? From there, you break down how to attack the hitter. We'll say that the 8 hole is hitting, 9 hole on deck. This hitter is looking to get a fastball or a pitch up in the zone that he can drive in the runner with a base hit/sac fly. Keep the pitch down and on the black with the fastball. Throw off-speed in 1-0, 2-1 counts, and you should be fine. If for some reason you get to 3-0/3-1, do not give in! Execute a good pitch down in the zone or even slightly off the plate. If he chases, he hits a weak ball and runner holds. If he takes for ball 4, you get the next guy and have a shot for a DP. If the 9 hole hitter hits a 2-run double, tip your hat; but, don't give in to the situation and allow the hitter to succeed at his plan.

5) Think "excessively" positive: Before every pitch, visualize soft contact, a hitter taking a well placed fastball, or getting that inning ending double play. Former manager of the San Diego Padres Greg Riddoch tells players to avoid using the words "don't" and "can't" when going through what psychologists call "self-talk." Instead of saying to yourself, "I can't walk another guy" or "don't give up a hit here," say to yourself, "I got this", "watch this" or "come on" to pull yourself through a tough situation. When others surrounding you have doubt, be the one who is excessively positive; and, you will be amazed at the jams you are able to get out of.

Dynamics of the 2 and 4 Seam Fastballs

To many, gripping a baseball is pretty elementary stuff. But without a proper and consistent grip for his pitches, a pitcher will struggle to command the baseball. Since the fastball is usually thrown 60-75% of the time over the course of a pitcher's start, good luck if you lack command of it.

In this segment, I will cover the basics of throwing both 2 and a 4-seam fastballs.

The 4-seam fastball will be a pitcher's straightest and fastest pitch. It gets its name from the fact that. when thrown, the 2 "horseshoes" on the baseball spin so that the 4 seams rotate end-over-end. This causes the baseball to cut through the air with as little resistance as possible; thus, it is the most aerodynamic.

You will notice in the picture to the left that the index and middle fingers cross over the horseshoe (any horseshoe) on the ball. To maximize velocity, keep these two fingers as close together as possible while maintaining control of the pitch. Conversely, to throw a slower fast ball, spread these fingers further apart.

You will notice in the second picture that the thumb sits directly underneath the baseball. A good rule of thumb (Really, that phrase was unintentional.) is that your thumb and middle finger should split the baseball into two "hemispheres". This will increase your command on the pitch by preventing any inconsistent and unwanted cut or sink on the baseball.


Sidenote: This is also the grip that a shortstop will use throwing the ball to first base or an outfielder would use to throw a runner out at the plate. Like I said, this is the straightest, fastest, and most accurate grip.

The 2-seam fastball is a common variation of the 4-seam fastball. To grip it, a person simply places their index and middle fingers between what I was taught as "the railroad tracks" of the baseball. You could also describe it as between the seams and on the "league label". Your thumb will be placed underneath the baseball. More specifically, it should be underneath the ball so that it splits the ball with your middle finger. To repeat, a pitcher increases his ability to command his pitch by splitting the ball with his thumb and middle finger.

Now that you have gripped the 2-seamer, it is important to know its purpose. The purpose of a 2-seam fastball is to maintain almost as much velocity as a 4-seam fastball while increasing or maximizing the amount of arm-side movement.

If you have the ability to command a consistent 2-seam fastball, I would suggest working off of that pitch. You can still implement your 4-seam fastball in counts when you need a little more "gitty-up" (0-2 climb the ladder).

The most important factor in deciding on which of the two fastballs to throw is your feel and command. You could be the hardest thrower since Nuke LaLoosh; but, if you can't get ahead 0-1 and command your 4-seamer, you will struggle.

And the same thing for the 2-seam: If you have nasty sink over the middle of the plate, you're going to get crushed.

As a result, the key is figuring out which of these two fastballs you have the best feel for and working off of it.

A general rule (over the course of a starting pitcher's start) is that a pitcher wants to throw roughly 60% fastballs, 20% breaking balls, and 20% change-ups. This being said, it is vital to have and maintain fastball command. It starts with the grip and finishes with executing the pitch by repeating your delivery/release point.

Note: To take it a step further, there is much debate among pitching coaches as to which side of the rubber a 4-seam pitcher and 2-seam pitcher should stand on. The general consensus is that a 4-seam pitcher should stand on the arm side of the rubber, and a 2-seam pitcher should stand on the glove side of the rubber. The idea is that a straighter/harder fastball (4-seam) benefits from having a greater angle; while the 2-seam pitcher benefits from a straighter line to the plate to allow more room for the sink to take place. I generally agree with this stance. However, there are always exceptions; and, it is important for each individual pitcher to "feel out" both sides (and the middle) of the rubber and decide for himself where he is more comfortable

The intent of the image below is to demonstrate the differences in flight path between the 2 and 4-seam fastball, as well as the effect of pitching from the first/third base side of the rubber and the variance of angles.

The "red" lines depict a 4-seam fastball and the "blue" lines depict a 2-seam fastball.

Also, both images simulate a right-handed pitcher.

From Start to Start

Day 1- Your Start: As soon as a manager/pitching coach tells you as a starter that your day is done, your preparation for your next start begins.

There are mixed opinions from pitcher to pitcher as far ice vs. no ice. When my arm feels strong/healthy, I typically do not ice. I prefer hitting the treadmill, elliptical, or bike for 15-20 minutes to flush the lactic acid out of my system. It's also great conditioning. If I got pulled in the 5th/6th/7th inning of a game, it trained me to have more in the tank. For future starts, as a starter, you have to have the capacity to get your team into the 7th/8th/9th innings; and, in the dog days of summer, you're going to need that stamina and your lungs.

From there, it is a light dumb bell routine...3lb weights, Y's, T's and bent T's on a swiss ball; followed by a light medicine ball routine, 3-5 lbs., geared towards stretching my my arm out and keeping it from stiffening after a start. If my shoulder/elbow felt inflamed after all of that, I would ice to minimize swelling; but, if it felt loose and strong, I would not. I find that my arm feels tighter the days after I pitch when I ice; but, there are times when it is necessary, in my opinion.

Day 2: This is my big endurance and leg day. I typically run 2 poles for every 10 pitches that I threw on the previous day (100 pitches/ 20 poles). From there, it becomes my squat, RDL, dumb bell front/side lunge, and box jump day. These lifts make me the most sore, and I don't want to be hanging from a lift on my start day.

Throwing-wise, it is a light toss day... 60-90 feet...just feeling my range of motion and release point. Again, trying to hit a target with my throwing partner and playing catch with a purpose.

This is also a good day to bust your abs. I am a big fan of planks, seated med ball twists, flutter kicks, leg throws, and med ball twist with throw against a wall or with a partner.

- I'll also add that I am a big fan of running stadium stairs; especially if you can't get in a weight room. This will bust your cardio and your leg strengthening. While running stairs, mix it up. Go every other step, every step, one leg jumps, 2 leg jumps (you will look dumb), and even front/side lunges up. Again, it trains you to carry your own body weight and is great for your conditioning.

Day 3: Today, I stretch out my throwing and throw a lightly on flat ground or, even, get on a mound. I like to work it back to 120-150 feet; again, trying to hit a target and repeat my release point. Before throwing, I will often add in some towel drills. This helps me to repeat my delivery and prepares my shoulder for throwing.

If I get on a mound, its 30 pitches...no more than 40. Just repeating my delivery, and working down in the zone.

This is also my upper body/back lift day. I will go through a routine that focuses on working small to big muscle groups. 3-5 lb shoulder routine, to DB rows, lat pulldown, pull-ups (various grips), push ups, reverse fly and hold with 3-5 lbs, DB bench or incline, then abs.

For conditioning, I will run about 3-5 hard shuttles. Sometimes 5x200 yard shuttles, sometimes 3x300 yd shuttles. This conditions you to exert energy, rest, exert energy, rest, exert...just like we do as a starting pitcher.

Day 4: If I didn't get on a mound yesterday, I do today. Ill towel drill, throw 90-120 feet (for about 7-8 minutes) and then work it in and take it to the mound; again, throwing to a target the entire time.

On the mound, with about 80% exertion, throw about 25 pitches. Then, I will take a 1-2 minute break and step back on to face 3 hitters as close to game speed as possible. I work honest counts and tell my catcher to mix in things such a 2-1 change ups, doubling up on fastballs inside, and back door sliders.

For conditioning, I will hop on a bike or elliptical for 20-30 minutes. I try to break a good sweat and flush out from my bullpen, either from that day or the previous day. If I don't have access to those machines, Ill go a light-medium pace for 12-15 poles.

For my lift, it's mostly abs, light DB, tubing stuff. Just to tone and maintain.

Day 5: Day before a start. This is my day to tighten up my delivery and release point with towel drills, throw lightly 75-90 feet, and throw a light flat ground series; focusing on keeping the ball down.

Conditioning-wise, I go with 6-8 50 yd strides at about 75-80 percent. Nothing taxing, as I will need to feel strong tomorrow. This just works out any stiffness I may have lingering from my Day 2 lift and breaks a light sweat.

For my lifting, I might do 1-2 sets (usually just 1) of 3-5 lb DB routine. I will also do some light abs.

Also, today or tonight, I will make sure to get in about a 10-15 minute stretch. I really want to make sure that I am loose for tomorrow. The stretch will focus on my legs, back, side rotation and arms.

Day 6/1: Check out my "Gameday Start Routine" for the details of this day.

-I touch on it during Day 5, but want to emphasize that stretching and maintaining/increasing your flexibility is vital every day.

--Also, this routine is geared towards a 5-man rotation/pro ball scenario. Again, everyone is different and there are organizations that prefer their pitchers to be on a mound on both days 3 and 4; but, for me, 1 day on a mound is enough.

In future posts, I'll touch on some more stuff I like to incorporate during stretches with more/less time between appearances; such as a typical reliever's routine.

I hope this was clear enough for everybody. If you have questions about any aspect, don't hesitate to drop a comment or throw me an email.

Quick Tip: Eye on the Black

Every pitcher has days when his stuff is sharp and his command is dead on. However, every pitcher also has days where his command is slightly off. These are the days when you throw a first pitch fastball, down and away to hitter, and it misses 3 inches off for ball one.

When this is occurs, intensify your focus. To make this happen (after you get the sign) look down at the black of the side of the plate you are going to throw to and slowly raise your eyes to the mitt. From there, make your pitch.

It sounds so simple; but, if you're looking to improve your first pitch strike percentage, or make that "split-the-mitt" 3-2 fastball on the inner black, this is how you do it.

UTR Interview: Tyler Kincaid

Tyler Kincaid
Pitching Coach
University of San Diego

During the summers of 2005 and 2006, I had the privilege of pitching under Tyler Kincaid for the Chatham A's of the Cape Cod Baseball League. Over the course of those summers, I got to know one of the most prepared and intelligent young pitching coaches in the game of baseball.

Link- Kincaid's Bio from Palomar College: http://www.palomar.edu/athletics/baseball/coaches.htm

UTR: In order of importance, what are the top 3-5 things you look at when recruiting a potential player?

§ Can they win on the weekend? Can he be a top guy … Fri/Sat/Sun?

§ What does our pitching staff need?

§ Variety of pitch repertoire / arm angles on staff

UTR: When evaluating a high school pitcher, what characteristics do you look for?

§ Arm action

§ Pitchability: secondary command or a knockout pitch

§ Projectability: 1,2,3 years down the road

§ Filling out staff, turning over rocks to find the free guy who can fill a role

UTR: In terms of mechanics, what things in particular do you believe allow a pitcher to have the best chance at success?

I believe for any pitcher to be able to have long term success they must have a repeatable delivery and smooth arm action. The ability to throw various pitches to various locations, and be able to do it over and over and over again, all starts with the pitcher’s ability to repeat their delivery. A pitcher who has the ability to repeat their mechanics with a smooth arm action will be able to maintain a greater total work load than a pitcher who throws with maximum effort on every pitch.

UTR: What are your feelings on throwing programs that include throwing weighted balls, tennis balls, footballs, or softballs?

I am a big believer in that we as pitchers need to utilize the equipment that we will be performing with during competition. I do not like weighted balls. I think it trains your arm to be slower and what we want is for the arm to be quick.

UTR: How does a hitter's stance/swing affect how you attack a hitter? Either as a pitcher or a pitch caller?

There are three keys to work from as either a pitcher or a pitch caller.

o Pitcher’s strength – you are going to attack the hitter with what the pitcher does best or is able to do with success.

o Hitter’s swing / weaknesses – being able to recognize the type of swing as the bat comes through the zone; any flaws in the hitter’s mechanics of their swing; and their location in the batter’s box

o Game situation – knowing what the hitter is trying to accomplish and utilizing the pitcher’s ability to compete against it

***But it all goes back to putting the pitcher in the best position for success

And that is to allow them to do what they do best

UTR: What are you beliefs as far as what a pitcher should do for an immediate post game routine?

Immediately after the pitcher is done with their outing our pitchers get an arm massage to break up some of the lactic acid and fluid that are built up within the throwing arm and shoulder. Then the pitcher is allowed to ice if they so choose. The sooner the pitcher starts breaking down the muscle tissue, the sooner they can begin repair and start preparing for their next outing.

UTR: Is there a common trait amongst the pitchers that you have known who were the most successful?

-The most successful pitchers I have been fortunate enough to work with have all shared similar ideals, they all had desire, dedication, and determination. The most successful pitchers were willing to put in the time and work, to do whatever it took, to make sure they put themselves in the best position every time they took the mound. Whether it was weight training, conditioning, or even the simplest task of playing catch, they always had a purpose to what they were doing.

-Baseball is a very different type of lifestyle compared to most other sports. It is a day in and day out affair. And a person who wants to be great in this game has to be able to put out the effort every day they are on the field. They have to be able to “work the grind.”

-The guys that really separate themselves once they take the mound are the ones that are determined to succeed. No matter what the score, who the opponent is, or where they are playing, these pitchers are relentless in their attack and the execution of their game plan.

UTR: 1 being the most important, 5 being the least, how would you rank the levels of importance of velocity, deception, repeating your delivery, movement, command?

1) Repeating your delivery

2) Deception

3) Command

4) Movement

5) Velocity

UTR: If you had one piece of advice for a high school pitcher who aspired to pitch in either college or pro ball, what would it be?

No matter what, continue to play the game as long as you can. It doesn’t matter if you’re the projected #1 pick in next years draft out of high school, or if you are the fifth outfielder on your JV team. Strive and work to get better as a player because there is some school, somewhere out there that would love to have you. If you are willing to put forth the effort, there is somewhere for you continue to play and live the dream.

UTR: What was the best piece of baseball advice you’ve ever received?

Enjoy playing the game. You have the ability to play this game for only so long, no matter who you are. Have fun and compete every day as if it was the last time you would ever step on the field.

At the end of the interview, TK added an excerpt from a Peter Gammons article “My 20 years at ESPN”

In September 1992, ESPN sent me to the home of one of my all-time favorite players, George Brett, for a Sunday Conversation as he edged closer to his 3,000th hit. "What do you want for your last at-bat?" I asked George.

"I want to hit a ground ball to second," Brett replied, "bust my butt down the line and be out by an eyelash."

My thanks goes out to TK for taking the time to sit down for an interview. His experience and knowledge of pitching is highly beneficial for those who have the chance to hear what he has to say. Very good stuff.

UTR Interview: Brandon Gomes

Brandon Gomes was a AA pitcher for the San Antonio Missions (San Diego Padres) in 2009. He also pitched for the Tulane Green Wave in college and competed in the 2005 College World Series.

2009 Stats: 65 Games (led all minor leaguers), 2.62 ERA, 3 Saves, 72 Inn, 100 K, 28 BB, .206 OBA
AZFL: 11 Games, 15 Inn, 3.00 ERA, 16 K, 3 BB

Link: Gomes in Spring Training: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wMz4X8bMEZw&feature=related

UTR: What is the best advice, in terms of the mental game, have you ever received?
It would have to be to always stay positive in your thinking and also to visualize where the pitch is going and what the outcome is going to be before your delivery.

UTR: What do you do to overcome stretches in your career where you are not as successful?
The first thing is to step back and try to understand why you are not having success. Sometimes it could be mechanical or mental, but sometimes it could be just a stretch of bad breaks. With as many games as we play you’re going to go through stretches where the breaks aren’t going your way. Once you’ve got an understanding of what might be the problem, keep putting your work in and continue to stay positive when you step out on the mound.

UTR: When you are most successful, what takes place?
When I'm throwing the ball well, the number one factor is throwing strike one down in the zone. No matter what the pitch is, putting a hitter in an 0-1 count is a huge advantage. It doesn't have to be a perfect pitch on 0-0, it just has to be down in the zone. It sounds so simple, but it's amazing how much more you are able to do being up in the count.

UTR: What is the mechanical aspect that you focus on the most?
For me when I stay tall over the rubber then the rest of my mechanics tend to fall into place. When I start rushing my front side or drifting, my arm lags behind and the ball stays up in the zone.

UTR: Is there anything in particular that you do in between outings that helps your prepare for your next start or relief appearance?
I like to repeat my motion as much as I can without tiring out my arm. I will never go more than 2 or 3 days without getting some kind of light work off a mound to keep a good feel for all of my pitches. I try to get at least two workouts in a week to keep my body from breaking down during the season. As far as the preparing for hitters, I keep a chart with all of the at-bats I’ve had against the opposition for that year. I’ll look over those charts before the game to get an idea of what I want to do to each hitter.

UTR: What drives, or motivates you?
Obviously the ultimate goal is to get to the Big Leagues and contribute to a winning team over a long successful career. But in addition to that, I tell myself that I never want to have any regrets when my career is over. I always work as hard as I can so that whether its one day, or 15 years in the Big Leagues I can look back and never have to say “what if.”

UTR: Is there a pitcher that you grew up aspiring to be like? If so, who and why?
I grew up a huge Red Sox fan and idolized Pedro Martinez. He’s not a very big guy but the way he attacks hitters and his exceptional feel for the pitching was and still is something I really enjoy watching.

UTR: Which hitter over the course of your career was/is the toughest to get out and why?
Michael Aubrey, who is now with the Baltimore Orioles. He was our first baseman at Tulane my freshman year and I’m pretty sure he batted .980 off of me in fall ball. He’s the most balanced and patient hitter I’ve ever seen. I’m pretty sure if I rolled the ball to home he still could’ve found a way to hit a double off the wall against me.

UTR: Is there anything in particular that you tell yourself when you are faced with big, or pressure situations?
The hardest thing to do in big situations is to not let the game speed up on you. So, I really try to slow the game down. I use a focus point on the mound somewhere and then visualize what I want to happen. After that you just have to be confident in the pitch you are about to deliver and trust your stuff.

Thanks to Brandon for taking the time to answer a few questions for the blog. One of the best ways to learn/develop in this game is to find out what successful guys do and implement some of their game into yours. Gomes is one of the most professional ball players I have had the opportunity to play with. Hopefully those who have read this blog have taken away something(s) they can use for their benefit.

Reading a Hitter's Stance

Here is a quick guide to facing hitters you have never seen before:

When you're facing a hitter with:

High Hands - They tend to be very good low ball hitters. When you're ahead 0-2/1-2, challenge these guys with good fastballs at the top or above the zone. If you're going to go with off speed in these counts, it needs to start in a place where this hitter perceives it to be a strike and then bottom out of the zone.

Example: Ken Griffey Jr.

Low Hands - These guys crush balls up in the zone. Keep the ball down, and you should have a good chance.

Example: Jeff Bagwell

Stand on top of the plate - They tend to stand there because they struggle with pitches away. Locate your fastball and/or breaking ball down and away.

Stand off the plate - These guys tend to have trouble with the inside pitch. Challenge these hitters in.

Sidenote: These are typically good the first AB a guy has off you. Once you beat a hitter who stands off the plate in, he's not going to be surprised again in his next at bat.

Rule 5 Draft, Super 2, and Tender/Non-Tender

Here are some descriptions of some often misunderstood, unknown aspects of the business side of the game.

Rule 5 Draft MLB/AAA/AA
By: Jeff Euston

The Rule 5 draft is held each December at the Winter Meetings, and it consists of a Major League portion and a minor league portion. By November 20, each club must set its 40-man roster and submit reserve lists for all major and minor-league levels (See Minor League Rosters). Between November 20 and the Rule 5 draft, a club may add Major League free agents to its 40-man roster but may not add any player from its minor league reserve lists.

After 4 or 5 years as a professional, a player must be added to his club’s 40-man roster or exposed to the 29 other clubs in the Rule 5 draft. (Under the new CBA, a club has 5 years to evaluate a player who signs his first pro contract at 18 years old or younger, but only 4 years to decide on a player who signs at age 19.) For purposes of calculating years as a pro, the counting begins the day a player signs his first pro contract, not the season he begins to play.

Clubs draft in reverse order of their won-loss records in the previous season, and only clubs with less than 40 players on their rosters may take part. To select an eligible player, a drafting club pays $50,000 to the player’s original club. The drafting club must keep the player on its 25-man active roster for all of the next season or put him on waivers. If a third club claims the player on waivers, the third club also must keep him in the majors all season. If the player clears waivers, he must be offered back to his original club for $25,000. A drafting club may work out a trade with the player’s original club so that the drafting club can keep him and send him to the minor leagues.

If, because of injury, a player selected in the Rule 5 draft spends less than 90 days on the active Major League roster, he also must remain on the Major League roster the next season until he earns 90 days of service. Otherwise, he must be put on waivers and offered back to his original club.

The Rule 5 draft also includes two minor-league phases. In the AAA phase, a player not protected on his club’s 40-man roster or 38-man AAA reserve list may be selected for $12,000. In the AA phase, a player not protected on his club’s 40-man roster, 38-man AAA reserve list or 37-man AA reserve list may be selected for $4,000. A player selected in the minor-league phase of the Rule 5 draft is not required to play the next season with his drafting club at the higher organizational level.

"Super 2" Player

By: Jeff Euston

A player with almost 3 years of Major League service time may become eligible for arbitration.

To qualify, a player must:

• have at least 2 years of service, but less than 3, and;
• have accumulated at least 86 days of service in the previous year, and;
• rank in the top 17% of all 2-year players in service time.
  

The cutoff point generally falls between 2 years, 128 days of service and 2 years, 140 days.

Tender Date/ "Non-Tender" Players
By: Jeff Euston

Major League clubs must offer contracts to players on its roster by December 12. In general, an offer may not be less than 80% of the player’s salary and performance bonuses the previous year or less than 70% of his salary and performance bonuses from two years earlier.

If a club has no interest in keeping a particular player, the club may choose to non-tender him, or to not offer him a contract. A player generally becomes a candidate to be non-tendered when he is arbitration-eligible and his club determines he is not worth the salary he might command in arbitration. A player who is non-tendered becomes a free agent and may sign with any of the 30 Major League clubs, including his former team, at any price.

More definitions can be found at bizofbaseball.com

Gameday- Starting Pitcher Routine

Here is a basic timeline that I would follow from one start to the next while in college:

Day 1: Game day
-2 to 4 half-pole jog to get the heart going.

-20+ minutes of stretching (legs, lower back, arm-sleeper stretch)

-10 backwards-to-forward jog/strides. - I saw Maddux do this in Spring Training on his gameday when I was in 8th grade. It is a backwards jog for 45 ft, and then you turn around and jog for 45 more feet. Do about 8-12 just to get your heart going. You're not going for a workout in pregame.

-15 to 20 towel drills. - Again, youre in warmup mode; so, all you are doing is working on finding the "feel" of your arm slot and building up to throwing the baseball. You can do these on flat ground or the mound. Build up the intensity as you go.

-Warm up catch. - I like to start in my opposite and equal/power position or the first 5 to 8 throws. This takes my legs out of the mix and allows me to focus on my upper half. My pitching coach or catcher is positioned about 50 feet from me here. From there, I step behind (small step) and throw at about 60 feet. Then, back it up to 90 feet doing this. After about 8-10 throws with my catcher gradually backing up. I like to ask him to "give me spots". This is what I call "playing catch with a purpose". At 60, then 75, then 90, then 120 feet of throwing to spots, you start to have pretty good feel of what the baseball is doing. Ill throw like this for about 8-10 minutes, the whole time building up my intensity until it is time to bring it in and go to the mound. I'll add, during that throwing session I would usually back it up to 180 feet of trying to "hit a spot", then bring it in.

-Mound warm-up. - Again, everyone is different; but, I like to make about 8-10 throws by stepping behind, lifting my leg, and throwing down the slope of the mound. This allows me to feel my timing and adjust to throwing on a slope. From there, my catcher squats down. Some guys like to throw 8-10 pitches with the catcher in front of the plate to start out. I usually don't do that. I will start out with all fastballs at 60'6", out of the stretch. I throw 2fb glove side, 2 fb arm side and do this set 3x. Then, I will throw 2 changeups and another fastball. (15 pitchers so far). Then I will go fb gloveside, fb armside 2 sliders, fb glove side (20). After that, I will take a 30 second-1 minute break for water/rest. My thought process here is that I don't want to start the game coming off of a 45-pitch inning. After a short break, I go to the windup. 2 gloveside fb, 2 armside fb, change up. Then fb gloveside, fb armside, fb gloveside, fb armside, slider. By alternating fastball locations, it challenges me to feel the difference in the two locations. (Now at 30 pitches). At this point, it may seem that I have not thrown enough off-speed yet. This is because I believe that a pitcher must first have fastball command, then the rest will come. After 30 pitches (6 off speed), I am ready to simulate hitters. No more than 6 pitches per hitter (If you walk him on 3-2 or punch him out in 3, move to the next hitter.). At this stage, I start out with a righty, then face a lefty; making sure that I mix in tough pitches like a backdoor slider to a lefty or a fastball in on a righty's hands. I will need those pitches in the game. The last hitter I will face is the opposing team's leadoff hitter. Getting the leadoff hitter out always settles me down and sets the tone for the game; so, I want to have a distinct plan of how I am going to face him. Also, by doing this with my catcher, he develops a clear-cut view as to how I want to attack him to start things off. And finally, I will throw one (maybe 2) 3-2 bases loaded pitches. This peaks my level of focus right before I have to go into the game, and practicing/executing that pitch before entering the game increases my confidence a good bit.

After that, gametime. Time to trust the work you've put in and the routine. When it is all said and done, if you make good pitches. you have a great chance to be successful.

Control the Controllable

Things you can control as a pitcher:
- Your preparation - physically, mechanically, mentally
- Your tempo - slow when called for, fast when called for and regular
- Your demeanor - there is a time to let a lying dog lie and their is a time to "Joba Chamberlain"
- Fielding your position. - You wear a glove, too.
- Executing a pitch. - The catcher calls it. Your job to execute it.
- Understanding the situation. - You dont need to punch out the .600 hitter with one out, a runner on 2nd, and the game is tied...een if you get to a 3-2 count. Pitch to black - off, not 1/3's-middle.
- Pitching with conviction. -If the catcher throws down an inside fastball to a lefty on a 2-1 count and you immediately visualize the ball being crushed into next weekend, do not throw that pitch.
-Adjustments.

Things you cannot control:

- How you feel that day: Sometimes all the preparation in the world can't make your fastball have its usual life, your sinker's usual sink, or your curve's usual bite, etc...see Adjustments above. Sometimes you just have to find a way. For most, that way is down in the zone and/or pitching backwards (changes in fastball counts and 0-2, 1-2 fastballs inside).
- Errors. - You pitch because you are a better pitcher than the fielders, and they field because they are better fielders/hitters than you. They're trying to make plays, and you're trying to get outs.
- Strike Zone. - Its there, somewhere. In extreme situations of tightness, just throw it down the middle right below the knees and youll get through it...hopefully.
- Run Support. It comes and goes, but scoring runs is not your job.
- Who is, or is not, in the stands. - If you're pitching to impress a scout or a gf, youre likely to have some embarrassing outings. Heath Bell gave me some great advice before I faced the Angels in an exhibition game. He said, "When you're here for longer then 2 weeks, you can look in the stands. Until then, jog to the mound with your head down and dont look anywhere else other than the mitt." Needless to say, I nearly took a detoured route to 2nd base on my way to the mound that night in Anaheim.
-Arm Pain or Injury. - No game is worth risking the rest of your career. When youre hurt, youre hurt. You dont help yourself or your team by pitching hurt. Speak up, get treatment or the injury taken care of, and get back out there when youre healthy.

--By no means are these all of the cans and cannots, but its a start. These are lessons that I have learned throughout the years. By controlling the controllable, as I say, you should notice your level of consistency improve on the mound.

Repetition

In my experience, repetition is the foundation of being successful in the game of baseball. One cannot have consistent success in this game without it. Everything from a hitter's pre-at-bat routine, a pitcher's delivery, an outfielder making a bang-bang assist or a baserunner taking a lead. It is all done with repetition. Repetition allows a player to have the game become almost second nature to him. Players who appear as though the game comes easy to them have achieved a state of habit that allows their bodies to react naturally based on the repetitions they have put in through practice and play.

For a pitcher to have a chance at being successful beyond high school, he has to repeat his delivery. There are two main reasons for this:
- Hitters recognizing pitch- Ex: Dropping arm on a slider vs. having a high arm slot on FB's
- Making pitch-by-pitch adjustment vs. game-to-game. Repetition increases a pitcher's feel for his delivery and allows him to make pitch-to-pitch adjustments as opposed to game-to-game adjustments.

For hitters, it is probably even more important to have a routine and stick to it. Watch the best hitters in the game, and you will notice that they repeat everything from their swings in the on-deck circle to their routine in the box. Chase Utley is a classic example of this. Many people "knock" how late he readies his hands as the pitcher delivers; but, this actually allows him to know where his hands are every time as a pitcher is on the verge of delivering the ball. It is as if everything the pitcher does up to that point is irrelevant. It also keeps his hands very relaxed and allows them to be as fast as possible, consistently.

The best base stealers in the game know exactly how far off of either first or second they are. Most will have a standard lead (ex: right left right left square) and an aggressive lead (ex: right left right left half shuffle square). Either way, repetition allows them to know two things. One, how far they have to dive to return to first; and two, how far they must run to second. It sounds easy, but you will be amazed at the number of runners that either have no chance to get back or no chance to steal a bag because of not practicing their leads.

As a baseball player moves to higher levels in the game, he will find that there is not a wide gap in the talent among the players. The players who continue to climb in this game are the ones who are consistent. Consistency comes from quality repetitions in both games and practice. To wrap up this post, here are some ways to practice repeating important aspects of your game:

1. Play catch with a purpose. - Most of your throws will be in pregame or practice. Throw with proper mechanics and have your partner hold his glove in various positions. Hit the target as often as you can, and youll be amazed at your increased feel for commanding the baseball

2. Towel drill. - Take a small towel or wound up t-shirt. Hold it with a baseball grip and work on repeating your arm action and delivery. This provides a small amount of resistance, but not the same amount as throwing a baseball; thus, reducing stress on your arm. The towel also acts as a marker of where your release point is. Put a chair or stool 5 or so feet in front of you and try to hit it in the same spot every time.

3. Dry swings in front of a mirror. See what you look like. Notice things about your balance, rhythm, stride and hand position. Do you repeat these things? Visualize the pitch being inside/out. As well as fastballs/sliders/changeups.

--Another variation of this is to have someone sit in a chair where the catcher would be and hold a baseball in various locations. Practice your swing path in the mirror; repeating the feel of the various swings.

New Direction For "Sunny" Blog

I apologize to everyone who stopped by to read the Sunny blog. Previously, I feel like my blog lacked an identity; thus, it faded quickly.

Instead, I've decided to use this space on the net to post anything and everthing I feel relevant and useful to others in regards to the game of baseball.

This could be quick shout outs, interviews, thoughts, stories, theories, etc I may come up with. Hopefully, this go around will be a good deal more beneficial and interesting for those who stop by the blog.

My first real post will be up shortly. Thanks for stopping by.

Woody