Tim Lincecum teaches Top Velocity

May 5, 2009

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There are two forces that add velocity to a pitch:

Momentum

Rotational Torque.

For momentum to effectively transfer to the ball, the pitcher must use all rotational pivots in order from the bottom up.  The hips must rotate before the shoulders and the shoulders before the arm internally rotates. For this to happen effectively these pivots must be free to rotate completely. Notice the picture of Tim Lincecum (Tim Lincecum is a phenom because of his size and ability to reach his top velocity continuously.)  Notice in the picture his weight is slightly leaning to his left. This would be like tilting an open door backwards so the open door slams closed due to the gravitational pull. The gravitational pull is also aiding the rotation of Tim Lincecum’s hips and shoulders. If he or the door was tilted the opposite way then this would change the gravitational pull. Gravity would now fight against the hips and door when rotating. Using the force of gravity to aid the generation of velocity can have a significant effect on velocity. This is a big reason why Tim Lincecum can throw so hard for his size. Read more

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Pitching Torque and the 3 pivots.

December 16, 2008

PhotographerThe most important component of pitching is “Separation.” This is what builds torque mainly in the core instead of the arm. This component will not only increase velocity but save a pitchers shoulder. Most high school and college pitchers have poor “Separation.” This component is also called “Scap Loading.” “Scap” for scapula. This terminology is significant because during “Separation” the pitcher is pinching his scapula’s together to hold the shoulders back.

I have written about this component in just about every article on pitch velocity. I will once again define this into more detail. I am doing this because of how important it is to master the pitching component of “Separation.”

The picture here of Felix Hernandez pretty much says it all. You can see the “Separation” from his hips to shoulders. It is like he is a towel being rung out to dry. Tim Lincecum calls this tightening his “Rubber Band.” The “Rubber Band” being his core. To understand core torque and its effectiveness, you must understand how torque is generated in a 90 MPH pitcher. Read more

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Pitching Clips

December 9, 2008

All the animated photos here are of professionals. Roll your mouse over the image and wait a second to read the image title.

I do not own these animated photos. This is a collection I obtained from the web.
To view more Professional Pitching deliveries select here. Read more

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Pitcher Diet – Alkaline / Acidic Food Charts

December 4, 2008

ALKALINE / ACIDIC FOOD CHARTS

The charts below are provided for those trying to “adjust” their body pH through their diet. The pH scale is from 0 to 14, with numbers below 7 acidic (low on oxygen) and numbers above 7 alkaline. These charts are intended only as a general guide to alkalizing and acidifying foods. Note that there may be some discrepancies between foods included on these charts.*

To learn why this diet is important for athletes and pitchers read this article Pitching Nutrition and Supplements.

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