What it takes to be a winning Little League pitcher

T.K. asks -- I play Little League. What do I have to do to win more games when I pitch?

To be a consistent winner, a young pitcher must:

1. have good control -- get the first pitch over for a strike
2. know how to field his position
3. analyze hitters -- strength and weaknesses
4. have confidence
5. keep his body conditioned, especially the legs, core, and shoulder
6. form good pitching habits
7. concentrate -- pick out a spot and be able to throw to it
8. communicate with his catcher, understand each other
9. be a pitcher, not a thrower
10. back up bases correctly
11. be sure to cover first base on balls hit to the right side
12. THINK!