Look Imposing on the Mound

I've been communicating with some young pitchers lately on a forum at www.letstalkpitching.com. One of the topics asked by a high schooler was "How do intimidate hitters?" It was actually a very intelligent question from a young aspiring hurler. It certainly acknowledges that there is much more to the pitcher - hitter battle than just the pitches being thrown. Sometimes, even the pitches being thrown can and should be used to "intimidate" the hitter.

From an "Intelligent Pitcher's" perspective, we must constantly aspire to have the edge in both the mental and physical side of the contest. For starters, let's think about how we stand and look on the mound. I used to wear my socks up in high school and college. However, upon turning pro, I decided that most professional pitchers wear their pants down and that it contributes to looking taller on the mound. Trust me, the taller the pitcher looks, the less comfortable the hitter will be in the box (e.g. Randy Johnson). I am also reminded of an interview with Johan Santana where he was describing where he learned his unique style of pitching. He said that in an effort to look bigger on the mound he had to physically widen is stance on the rubber. That thought process contributed to him standing as he currently does with his feet wider than most on the mound out of the wind-up.

Here's Kruk barely missing RJ's Fastball in the 2003 Allstar Game

Secondly, I've always ascribed to the school of that a pitcher should never show emotion on the mound. It is the idea that you are in control at all times and nothing the other team, especially the hitter at the plate, can do to get into your head. I'm not a big fan of the large fist pump after strike out or big play, however, I understand there are times where some people just can't help but let a little adrenaline out. It shouldn't matter if you just recorded a strike-out or gave up a three run bomb - your mind set and countenance (sorry, thats a William and Mary word that means facial expression) should never change.

Thirdly, the pitches you make will say the most about who you are as a pitcher. Never ever be afraid to throw the baseball inside. That part of the plate is yours and will never ever be the hitter's unless you allow it to be. If a hitter gets too close, you are completely within your rights to make sure you let him know he's too close with a well placed fastball under the chin. Now understand, do not EVER throw at a hitter's head, but if you need to knock him down...do it.

Ultimately, the pitches you make and your ability to shut down the opposing hitters will make you look more imposing than anything else. However, you must constantly be striving for every advantage and these few examples will go a long way to give you the edge you are looking forward to. It's all part of the Less is More philosphy. The idea that the more prepared and in control you are, the less hard you will have to "try"to throw strikes and gets outs as it all becomes more and more natural and, well, effortless.

Until Next time!!