There are two types of positions that a pitcher may use when making a pitch: the windup or the stretch.
The Windup
The windup involves a longer motion than the stretch. It has a big leg kick that is thought to give the pitch more power. The windup is used when there are no runners on base or there is only a runner on third.
The pitcher's leg kick
Photo by Ducksters
Here are some steps to throwing from the windup:
The pitcher starts out by facing the batter with his feet on the rubber, feet pointing towards home plate.
As a right handed pitcher your right foot will stay on the rubber while pitching.
To begin the pitch you take a step back with your left foot. For young pitchers this should be a small step around 4 to 6 inches.
Turn 90 degrees (right handed pitchers will be facing third base) with your left shoulder pointing toward home plate.
As you turn lift your left leg, bending at the knee.
Now throw to the catcher while making an explosive step towards home plate with your left foot. Keep your left foot in line with your right foot which is on the rubber.
Follow through on your pitch and finish low.
The Stretch
The stretch is a simpler, more compact pitching position. The stretch is used when there are base runners on first or second base. Since the pitching motion takes less time, it gives the runners less time to steal bases. Some pitchers like to use the stretch all the time regardless of the base runners.
The set position
Photo by Ducksters
Another name for the stretch is the "set" position. This is because the pitcher must become "set" for a moment before throwing the pitch to home plate.
Here are the basic steps to throwing from the stretch (right handed pitchers):
Right handed pitchers will start with both feet pointed toward third base. The right foot on the edge of the rubber.
Move to the "set" position by bringing your hands together.
Begin your pitching motion by lifting your left leg while bending your knee.
Now step towards home plate keeping your left foot in line with your right foot (which is still touching the rubber).
As you step make your pitch.
Follow through on your pitch and finish low.
Note: Once you lift your left leg, the pitching motion of the stretch should be the same as that of the windup. It's only the beginning steps that are different.
