What Pitchers Look for in a Hitter

  What Pitchers Look for in a Hitter

By: Frank Fraschetti  

  Feet:

    Pitchers look at a few things while on the mound. One of the first things a pitcher may look at is the batter's feet. This is a good indication of how to throw to the hitter and maybe even give a good idea of what pitches to throw. As a pitcher, you try and always find a little way to help when you are on the mound. For example, if you see the hitter is up in the box with runners on and less than 2 outs, a bunt might be coming. Noticing that before you pitch the ball can really help you as a pitcher.  


Step:

    Another thing that a pitcher will look at is the step or load the hitter takes. If the hitter is stepping into the ball or toward the plate, then it would be smart to try and throw it inside to jam them. If the hitter does the opposite, and steps out or toward 3rd base if it's a right-handed hitter, then throwing an outside pitch is smart because it is a far reach. Something so small like this can really help someone when pitching. 


Stance:

    A batter's stance can be a big clue also for a bitcher. There are many different stances in baseball. For example, there are hitters with an open stance, a closed stance, and a normal stance with their feet lined up. This too is another hint on where to throw the ball. Also with the stance, you look at where their hands are placed when in the stance because certain pitches can be harder to handle than others based on where they are thrown. The hands are a big hint because you have to look at where they start. Also what the first movement with their hands is when the ball is thrown. 


Conclusion:

    All in all, as a pitcher there are more things to worry about or to look for than just getting out there and just throwing. The film is another thing that can really help when pitchers versus another team or a hitter. Also, scouting reports are huge because it usually says what the hitter struggles with. So pitching is not just throwing, just like anything else, it takes time and preparation to become the best you can be. 

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