Pitcher Changeup Drill

A Drill to Master the Changeup with Emphasis on Grip, Release, and Speed Differential

The Pitcher Changeup Drill focuses on developing a reliable changeup by practicing grip, release, and speed control. This drill enhances a pitcher’s ability to deceive hitters by mastering the speed differential and smooth delivery of an effective changeup.

Difficulty Rating: ★★★☆☆ (Moderate to Challenging)
Time Estimate: 15-20 minutes

Setup:

  1. Equipment Needed:
  • Baseballs
  • Pitcher’s mound (or a simulated mound area)
  • Catcher (or net if a catcher isn’t available)
  • Cones or markers (optional, for grip and release practice)
  1. Pitcher Positioning:
  • The pitcher should set up on the mound or flat ground if a mound isn’t available.
  • Ensure the catcher is positioned at the correct distance based on the pitcher’s age level, providing feedback on each throw.
  1. Grip Practice (Optional):
  • You may want to have a setup area where the pitcher can practice and adjust the grip without throwing, focusing on consistent placement of the fingers on the ball to create speed differential.

How to Run the Drill:

  1. Grip and Release Practice:
  • Begin with a few practice grips to ensure the pitcher is comfortable with their changeup grip (usually with fingers spread wider on the ball and a looser grip than the fastball).
  • The pitcher can practice holding the grip without releasing the ball, feeling the difference in pressure between the fastball and the changeup.
  1. Changeup Throws with Catcher Feedback:
  • The pitcher throws a series of changeups to the catcher, focusing on achieving a consistent speed differential from the fastball. Each throw should feel smooth, with the same arm motion as the fastball.
  • The catcher provides feedback on each throw, noting the speed difference, location, and effectiveness of deception. The pitcher should try to keep the same arm action as their fastball to avoid tipping the pitch.
  1. Alternate with Fastballs:
  • For every 3-4 changeup throws, the pitcher should throw a fastball, ensuring they keep a smooth transition between the two pitches.
  • The pitcher focuses on maintaining the same arm speed for both pitches to increase the changeup’s deception.
  1. Repetitions and Rest:
  • Perform 10-15 changeup pitches with regular fastballs mixed in. After each round, allow a brief rest period to avoid arm fatigue.

Why You Run This Drill:

The changeup is one of the most effective off-speed pitches for disrupting a hitter’s timing. This drill is designed to help pitchers improve their changeup by focusing on the grip, release, and achieving a slower velocity without changing arm speed or body mechanics. Mastering the changeup can make a pitcher more versatile and deceptive, giving them a critical tool for getting batters out, especially when they anticipate a fastball.

Key Skills Developed:

  • Speed Differential: This drill emphasizes the importance of a significant speed drop from the fastball to the changeup, ideally 8-12 mph slower.
  • Arm Speed Consistency: Pitchers learn to maintain their fastball arm speed while delivering a slower pitch, making it harder for hitters to detect the changeup.
  • Deception and Confidence: As pitchers improve their changeup, they gain confidence in using it during games, adding another weapon to their pitching arsenal.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • Increases Pitch Variety: The changeup gives pitchers an effective off-speed option that keeps batters off balance.
  • Develops Control and Mechanics: Practicing the changeup reinforces proper mechanics and helps pitchers understand the subtle mechanics needed to vary pitch speed.
  • Enhances Deception: By maintaining the same arm speed, pitchers increase their deception, making it difficult for batters to read the pitch type.

Cons:

  • Difficulty with Grip and Release: The changeup grip can feel unnatural to younger pitchers, and achieving the right release takes practice and patience.
  • Risk of Tipping Pitches: Without proper arm speed, pitchers may unintentionally “tip” the changeup, making it easier for batters to identify and hit.
  • Potential for Fatigue: Repeated off-speed throws can lead to fatigue if not done correctly, especially for younger pitchers not accustomed to mixing pitches.

Coaching Notes & FAQs:

Coaching Tips:

  • Arm Speed Consistency: Encourage pitchers to throw the changeup with the same arm speed as their fastball. Slowing the arm down can make the pitch easier to recognize.
  • Focus on Grip and Feel: Emphasize grip as the key to speed differential. If pitchers feel uncomfortable with a standard changeup grip, work with them to experiment with grips that provide a similar effect.
  • Catch Feedback is Key: The catcher’s feedback on the pitch’s effectiveness and speed differential is essential. Remind pitchers to trust their catcher and use the feedback to adjust their technique.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. What’s the ideal speed differential between a fastball and a changeup?
  • The ideal speed difference is typically 8-12 mph slower than the fastball. This speed differential disrupts a hitter’s timing without requiring the pitcher to change their mechanics.
  1. How do I avoid tipping the pitch?
  • The key to avoiding tipping the pitch is maintaining the same arm speed and body mechanics as the fastball. Practice throwing the changeup with a fastball delivery, focusing only on adjusting the grip and pressure, not arm motion.
  1. How often should I practice the changeup?
  • Aim to incorporate this drill 1-2 times a week, especially for younger pitchers. Regular practice helps pitchers build confidence in their changeup while ensuring they don’t overuse it during games.
  1. What if my pitcher finds the changeup grip uncomfortable?
  • If the standard grip is uncomfortable, try adjusting the finger positioning slightly. Some pitchers find success with variations like the circle changeup or three-finger changeup, depending on their hand size and comfort.

The Pitcher Changeup Drill is an essential exercise for pitchers looking to add a reliable off-speed pitch to their repertoire. With consistent practice, this drill will improve a pitcher’s ability to control, deceive, and challenge batters with a well-executed changeup.