5 Tips For Throwing A Great Change-Up

Every pitcher has an put pitch. For me, it was the circle change-up. Coupled with my mid-90s mph fastball, I was able to throw it in any count and be successful with it. That's why I was a closer in my 4 years in the Cubs organization.

Here are five baseball pitching tips to help you throw a better change-up.

1. Choke the ball.

2. Lengthen your stride, stay closed with lead side, stay inside of ball. (Note: Some pitchers have more success shortening their stride very slightly. It's important to find out what works for you.)

3. Collapse your wrist (palm to sky) and drag your rear foot.

4. On change, everything should be the same except last minute think "my little sister is catching me." Keep it down and attack hitter.

5. Grip changes velocity so don't let catchers tell pitcher it's too fast because good arm speed is needed. Your grip should be adjusted, not your pitching mechanics or arm position.