Little League Training Videos

By Steven Ellis former Chicago Cubs pitching pro

It's always best to learn proper pitching mechanics early - and then continue to refine those mechanics as a player gets older and advanced in the game of baseball. This starts in little league. These little league pitching drills can be used as a teaching and training tool to promote and develop proper pitching mechanics. Each little league pitching drill focuses on a specific aspect of the pitching delivery, allowing the pitcher to develop a feel for good mechanics that directly translates into better consistency in games, more strikes and increased pitching velocity.

1. Pitcher Line Drill - The line drill is a release point drill designed to work on a pitcher's release point.

Have players pair off, with one partner getting down like a catcher on flat ground about 45 feet away
The pitcher throws all of his or her pitches (fastball, curve ball, slider, change-up) 15 pitches at a time from the windup and the stretch.
It is particularly good neuromuscular work to throw all pitches at less distance, alternating 15-pitch intervals. It helps pitchers groove the feel of their release points. Using a hat, towel or glove for home plate gives a perspective on location.

Distance magnifies mistakes, and the mound worsens both mistakes and mechanical inefficiencies. Timing and feeling the delivery on short ground, at a shorter distance, builds physical and mental confidence.

2. Pitcher Control Drill - To help pitchers develop awareness of the strike zone

Pitchers and catchers stand at regulation distance from each other. The catcher stands behind home plate, and a batter stands in the batter's box. The batter should alternate between a left-and right-handed batting stance after five pitches, but not take any swings. The catcher calls balls and strikes. Have the batter wear a helmet in this practice session.

This game-like drill will help your pitchers develop a consistent pitching motion, get a good feel for the strike zone, and get used to pitching with a player in the batter's box.

3. Balance Point Drill - Develop good balance while pitching.

The pitcher goes through his wind up and delivery but stops himself at the balance point, and holds it for at least two seconds before continuing. The coach checks the position to make sure that the front leg is at the waist or higher. This allows the pitcher to prevent him from rushing once he takes the mound in a game.

If the pitcher opens up to soon, their arm will never get to the proper height and the ball will tend to sail. Require that before games, your pitchers performed the balance drill at least 20 times as the beginning of their warm-up in the bullpen. This will help them get into the proper tempo.