Free guide
Pitching From the Stretch: 3 Simple Steps for Young Pitchers
Runners on base? Here's how a young pitcher stands sideways, comes set, and still throws strikes, plus one easy drill to practice at home.
- Beginner series
- Ages 8–16
- Free
Short answer: The stretch is a shorter way to start a pitch, used mostly when runners are on base. Stand sideways to the catcher, bring your hands together and come to a full stop, then lift, balance, and throw the same way you always do. Most beginners rush the stop, so practice it slowly first.
Once a young pitcher finishes our Beginner Pitching Series, the stretch is usually the next new thing they see in games. Parents in Naples and around Collier County often ask why their kid suddenly "pitches differently" with a runner on first. Here's the simple version.
What is the stretch?
There are two ways to start a pitch. The windup is the longer start most beginners learn first (see how to stand on the mound). The stretch is shorter. Pitchers use it with runners on base so they can keep an eye on the runner and get the ball to the catcher sooner.
The good news: only the start changes. After the leg lift, it's the same balance, move, throw, finish your child already practices.
Step 1: Stand sideways
Stand with your back foot along the front edge of the rubber and your front side facing the catcher, like you're standing on a line that points at the plate. Feet about shoulder-width apart, knees soft, standing tall.
Step 2: Come set and hold
Bring your hands together at your belly or chest, and stop. A real stop, not a quick bounce. Hold it for a moment and pick your target on the glove. That pause is what "coming set" means, and it's the part beginners rush most.
Step 3: Lift, balance, go
From the set, lift your front leg, find your balance, and throw to the target. From here it's the motion your child already knows: balance, move, throw, finish. See the basic pitching motion.
A drill to try at home: Set, Pause, Go
You can do this in the backyard or at the park. No mound needed.
- Your child gets sideways, like Step 1.
- You say "Set." They bring their hands together and stop.
- Count out loud: "One, two."
- You say "Go." They lift, balance, and throw easy to your glove.
Start slow and at easy effort. Once the stop looks clean every time, let them count in their head instead of out loud. Keep it short and end on a good throw.
Rushing the set? That's normal
Almost every beginner hurries the stop at first, especially in a game with a runner leading off. If the hands never really stop, or the throw sails, step off, take a breath, and come set again. Slower is better while they're learning.
Why it matters for parents
- Same motion, new start. Kids who practice the stretch at home don't feel thrown off the first time a runner gets on.
- Calmer with runners on. A clear set and pause gives your child a second to breathe and aim, which helps with aim small, miss small.
- Rules vary by league. Some youth leagues don't allow leading off, and balk rules aren't the same everywhere. Ask your child's coach or league which rules apply to them.
FAQ
When should a young pitcher learn the stretch?
Once they can throw strikes from the windup with a motion they can repeat. Many kids start using it once runners can lead off or steal in their league. Your child's coach can tell you when it fits their team.
Is the stretch harder than the windup?
It's different, not harder. There are fewer moving parts at the start, but the full stop takes practice.
Do they need a mound to practice the stretch?
No. Flat ground in the backyard or at the park works fine.
What's a balk?
A balk is a pitcher's illegal move with runners on base, like not coming to a full stop or faking a throw. Rules differ by league and age, so ask your coach what your league calls. Our pitching terms for beginners guide covers the basics.
Should my child pitch from the stretch all the time?
Some pitchers do, because it's simpler. That's a choice to make with your child's pitching coach.
Want help with the stretch?
Tell us your child's age and where they're pitching on the contact page. Lessons are at Fleischmann Park in Naples, and we travel within Collier County.