How to Talk to a Pitcher During a Visit to the Mound

If your pitcher is struggling, you may want to talk to him about it while he's on the mound. A meeting on the mound is a good way to find out how tired your pitcher is and if he can continue in the game. It's also a good idea to meet with the pitcher before simply pulling him from the game. This article explains how to talk to a pitcher during a visit to the mound.

Instructions

  1. Talking to a Pitcher on the Mound

    • 1

      Begin by asking the pitcher how he is doing. While the pitcher will most likely not tell you that he's done nor is he ready to come out, you can still find out plenty of information from by his answer. As a manager or pitching coach, you probably know when your players aren't being 100-percent honest with you. Pay attention to how the pitcher reacts to the question. Then, ask the catcher how he thinks the pitcher is performing.

    • 2

      Tell the pitcher about anything you've noticed regarding his pitches during the inning. For example, if your pitcher has walked two straight batters, tell him why you think he's missing the plate. The problem could be as simple as he's overthrowing and isn't aware of it.

    • 3

      Make the pitcher aware about the upcoming batter or batters. Give your pitcher hints on how he can get the next guys out and end the inning without any real damage done. For example, if you know that the next batter is likely to swing at pitchers high and outside the strike zone, tell your pitcher to try to get the batter to swing at those pitches.

    • 4

      Explain the defensive situation to the pitcher and how his pitches can make the defense's job easier. The easiest example to use is when your team is in desperate need for a double play. When that is the case, remind your pitcher to attempt to get a ground ball from the batter--one that will preferably make for an easy double play for your defense.

    • 5

      Remind your pitcher that you believe in him. When you make a visit to the mound, it's almost always a sign that things aren't going well for your pitcher. A simple reminder that you still have faith in your pitcher will mean a lot to him. It could be the difference between him getting the next batter out and giving up a run.

    • 6

      Stall for as long as you possibly can. If you're making a trip out to the mound, there may already be pitchers warming up in the bullpen or they may have just began throwing. In order to make sure that they have plenty of time to get ready, remain out on the mound until the umpire comes to break up the meeting. Once he does, finish your point and casually walk back to the dugout in order to take up more time.