How to Throw a Right Handed Pitch

"My pitching philosophy is simple," right handed pitcher Satchel Paige once said. "Keep the ball away from the bat." While that approach certainly worked for Paige, who won an estimated 1,500 games during his Hall of Fame career, the majority of today's baseball pitchers must possess a few more weapons in their arsenal to find success. Without an enormous amount of talent and arm strength, it can be assumed that Paige's philosophy is rather difficult to employ. However, with proper mechanics, pitchers can help keep hitters off-balance and keep their earned run average low.

Instructions

    • 1

      Assume the correct stance, with your feet parallel (right foot on the pitching rubber) and your left shoulder facing the catcher. Make sure your weight is evenly distributed and your eyes are focused on the catcher's glove.

    • 2

      Read the signal given by your catcher and acknowledge which pitch you're going to throw by nodding "yes" to accept the suggested pitch or shaking your head "no" to decline. Assume the appropriate grip on the seams of the ball for your desired pitch, and keep the grip hidden from the batter so he won't know what you're throwing his way.

    • 3

      Take a short step backwards with your left foot to begin your windup. Push off the rubber with your right foot and lift your left leg up to your chest.

    • 4

      Pivot your right foot forward so your toes are facing the catcher. Allow your momentum to carry you toward home plate. Move your left hand forward as you extend your right arm completely backward to begin the throwing motion. Keep your fingers on top of the ball with your wrist giving firm guidance throughout the release.