Let’s get real!
In the game of Fastpitch, a pitched ball can go up, it can go down, it can go left, it can go right and, of course, it can change speeds. Depending on whether a pitcher is right- or left-handed will determine the “name” of the pitch that breaks right or left, but that pretty much covers the spectrum of types of pitches.
So, let’s assume we agree on the fact that there are a limited number of options for a pitcher to choose from. Then, here is the question: How can a 9-year-old believe she has seven or eight or nine pitches?
Come on, I know you know at least one young pitcher who has been lead to believe they have command of somewhere in the neighborhood of this many pitches.
We have to start to address the craziness around pitching, and crazy is the right word. I don’t blame the kids, I blame the coaches, pitching coaches and parents.
There is plenty of blame to go around. so it will allow us to have a great discussion about this very interesting topic! We will look at the problem and ways that I think we can address it.
About the Author: Tory Acheson brings a wealth of knowledge to the Fastpitch Prep staff. He has coached at all levels of the game, including the last 25 years at the college level at the University of Wisconsin – Parkside, Tennessee Tech and Kennesaw State. He began his coaching career at the high school level spending 9 years Whitnall High School in Greenfield, Wis. and is now working as a professional softball instructor.
