Pitching Simulated Count

A Drill to Train Pitchers in Game-Like Scenarios with Realistic Pitch Counts

The Simulated Count Drill places pitchers in specific pitch count situations, challenging them to develop strategy, handle pressure, and make smart pitch choices in different game scenarios.

Difficulty Rating: ★★★★☆ (Advanced)
Time Estimate: 20-30 minutes

Setup:

  1. Equipment Needed:
  • Pitcher’s mound and full-length pitching distance to home plate
  • Catcher’s gear and a catcher
  • A coach or assistant to call balls, strikes, and provide feedback
  • Optional: Cones or markers to indicate baserunner positions
  1. Player Positioning:
  • The pitcher sets up on the mound as they would in a game.
  • The catcher is positioned behind home plate.
  • A coach stands to the side of the catcher, calling out counts, balls, strikes, and feedback.
  1. Scenario Setup:
  • The coach will call out a specific count (e.g., 1-2, 3-0) and sometimes add a baserunner situation (e.g., bases loaded, runner on first).
  • Pitchers should be prepared to work through a variety of counts and situations, simulating real game pressure.

How to Run the Drill:

  1. Coach Instructions:
  • Begin by calling out a specific count (e.g., 2-2) and, if desired, a baserunner scenario (e.g., runners on second and third).
  • Explain the count’s context to the pitcher, such as if it’s a hitter’s count or a pitcher’s count, so they understand the strategy they should be aiming for.
  1. Executing Pitches:
  • The pitcher should decide on a pitch type and location based on the count and situation. For example, on a 3-0 count, they may want to focus on a fastball down the middle to avoid a walk.
  • After each pitch, the coach calls it as a ball or strike and updates the count. If the pitcher throws a ball on a full count, it’s treated as a walk; a strike ends the “at-bat.”
  • After each “at-bat,” reset to a new count and scenario, simulating a new batter or situation.
  1. Repetitions:
  • Aim to have pitchers work through at least 8-10 different scenarios, rotating through various counts and base runner situations.
  • Provide feedback after each pitch or at-bat, helping the pitcher understand what worked and what adjustments to make.

Why You Run This Drill:

The Simulated Count Drill helps pitchers develop situational awareness, refine their pitch selection, and build mental resilience for game scenarios. By putting them in realistic situations, the drill improves decision-making, strategy, and consistency under pressure. Pitchers learn how to work within different counts and handle challenging situations, like managing bases-loaded counts, which prepares them to pitch more effectively in real games.

Key Skills Developed:

  • Situational Awareness: Pitchers learn to read counts and game situations, understanding when to be aggressive and when to focus on accuracy.
  • Strategy and Decision-Making: The drill encourages pitchers to think critically about their pitch choices based on the count and baserunners.
  • Mental Toughness: Simulating real-game pressure builds mental resilience, helping pitchers stay focused and composed even in high-stress situations.

Pros and Cons of the Simulated Count Drill

Pros:

  • Realistic Game Situations: This drill closely mimics in-game scenarios, helping pitchers apply skills in a practical way.
  • Improves Strategy and Awareness: Pitchers learn to think strategically, making it easier to transition to live games.
  • Builds Mental Strength: Facing various counts and situations develops resilience and confidence under pressure.
  • Flexible for All Levels: While advanced pitchers benefit the most, the drill can be adjusted to help beginners learn basic situational pitching.

Cons:

  • Complex for Beginners: Less experienced pitchers may need time to understand situational pitching, making this drill more challenging.
  • Requires Focused Attention: Coaches need to give detailed feedback on pitch choices, which can be time-consuming.
  • Intensive on Pitch Count: Due to the number of pitches involved, monitoring the pitcher’s workload is essential to avoid overuse or fatigue.

Coaching Notes & FAQs:

Coaching Tips:

  • Encourage Smart Pitch Selection: Guide pitchers on making good pitch choices based on count and situation. For instance, teach them when to throw an off-speed pitch versus a fastball.
  • Focus on Execution Under Pressure: Remind pitchers that the goal is to stay consistent and focused. They should work on maintaining their mechanics, even in challenging counts.
  • Provide Scenario-Based Feedback: After each pitch or at-bat, review the pitcher’s choice and explain why it was effective or how it could be improved for the scenario.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. What if a pitcher doesn’t understand situational pitching yet?
  • Start with simpler scenarios, like 0-0, 3-1, and 2-2 counts without runners. Explain basic strategies, such as aiming for strikes on certain counts, and gradually add complexity as they progress.
  1. How can I make this drill more challenging for advanced pitchers?
  • Incorporate more nuanced situations, like bases loaded with a 3-2 count, or mix in different hitter types (e.g., power hitter vs. contact hitter) to encourage strategic thinking. You can also add time constraints or use different pitch types in specific counts.
  1. How often should I run this drill?
  • Run this drill 1-2 times per week, especially leading up to games. It helps pitchers build a consistent mental approach without overloading their pitching count.
  1. How can I monitor pitch count in this drill?
  • Limit each pitcher to 10-12 scenarios or count their total pitches and cap at a reasonable number for their age and skill level. Rotate with other pitchers to keep arms fresh.

The Simulated Count Drill is invaluable for preparing pitchers to handle real-game pressure with confidence. With regular practice, pitchers improve their decision-making, adaptability, and resilience, making them more effective and strategic on the mound.