Thrower vs Pitcher

Just wanted to get some of you guys opinions on the transition from being a highschool pitcher to a college pitcher, and what truly makes a guy a pitcher, not just a thrower.

We all know location and keeping the ball down, but is that all?! Is the mental game a greater aspect in college?

 

That's a great question. IMO, the biggest hurdle to overcome at the next level is a mindset of striking everyone out. Until a pitcher comes to the point where he understands the importance of getting ahead in the count, setting up pitches and making a batter swing at his (pitcher's) pitch...most will struggle initially.

I'll let others bring up other points

 

pitching

Many kids cannot make the transition from HS to college or pros. Several reasons. Foremost is mental toughness and emotional maturity. What good is a 90mph fastball if you cannot regroup after your team just made 3 errors or a good hitter just took your 90 miler over the center field fence? Also, pitching is an art as well as a skill. Hitting spots, knowing hitter's weaknesses and being able to capitalize on them, and NOT BEING AFRAID OF CONTACT. Think about it. Everyone loves to talk about how many strikeouts Joey had in a game. To strike a batter out it usually takes a minimum of 6-8 pitches. For a nine-inning game, striking out 27 batters, that would be around 190 pitches. Even striking out the side would take about 24 pitches versus 3 ground balls from 8 pitches. The key is to get batters out on as few pitches as possible. Also, staying ahead in the count it key. Keep the advantage on your side. Again, early contact.

Finally, a lot of kids are superstars on their HS teams. Suddenly they go from pitching every big game to possibly relieving mid-week in college. No hometown fans to ooh and aah over them; no parents to pick them up; just them and their nasty coach. Mental toughness and emotional maturity--take them every time over the big time fast ball.

 

This is a very good post!!!