Pitching Secrets To Picking Off Speedy Base Runners

Today, I want to address how to pick off speedy base runners — an important element in being a well-rounded baseball pitcher.

"Short Arm Throws, Quick Feet"

The key to picking a base runner off at first base is having quick feet and making a “short-arm throw.”

Short-arm throws involve “shortening” the arm path of throwing arm and speeding up the arm swing (similar to the way most catchers throw).

To quicken your feet, think about keeping them no wider than 12 inches apart at all times. Then, move them together when you make your jump turn to the bag. The key here is moving your feet together when you jump turn.

To "cheat" separate the hands a split-second earlier than your feet and try to gain ground towards the base you're throwing to.

Yours in baseball,

Steven Ellis
The Complete Pitcher™
www.thecompletepitcher.com
www.thecompletepitcher.blogs.com