Overhand pitching is game-speed for younger ages. Kids have to adjust to a faster ball at a steeper angle. This is where they transition from toss drills to real pitching.
What you need: 30 soft baseballs (11” for 10U, 12” for 12U), pitcher at regulation distance, batter, a net or fence.
Setup: Pitcher at 35 feet (10U) or 40 feet (12U). Batter in ready position.
How to run it:
- Pitcher throws overhand strikes. Slow and controlled at first.
- Batter focuses on Set, Load, Step, Swing. One cue per pitch.
- Do 10 pitches focusing on eye contact. Batter tells where the pitch is (high, low, inside, outside).
- Do 10 more focusing on the Swing. Count solid contact.
- Do 10 final pitches as “at-bats” (no coaching, just play).
What to watch: Is the batter’s head still? Does it follow the pitch or pull away? Does the batter swing at pitches outside the zone?
If they’re struggling: Pitcher throws from 30 feet. Throw slower. Throw all strikes down the middle.
If they’ve got it: Pitcher throws from full distance at full speed. Mix fastballs and off-speed pitches. Vary the zone.