Getting to the Set Position in the Stretch

Pitching from a stretch isn't easy for young players and is often required in leagues as young as 9/10. A pitcher should go from the stretch whenever there are runners on base. Even with the bases loaded or a runner on third only, the defense has a better chance of preventing a run when the pitcher uses the stretch.

Young pitchers should straddle the rubber with their feet upon obtaining the ball and quickly assess the situation. Next they should put their rear foot on the inside of the rubber and then take a large step toward the catcher (and take a sign at this point if appropriate). The ball should be held in the hand (although keeping the ball in the glove is legal) and this hand should be behind the back leg. Pitchers should not look in at the catcher (for a sign or whatever) without being on the rubber—this is a balk.

Next the lead leg is brought back to the body and the pitcher "sets," with his hands in the middle of his stomach or chest or somewhere in between. The feet should be about six inches apart – kids often like to put them together and they lose their balance. The pitcher must come to a complete stop at this point before he can deliver the ball to the plate. Before the pitch is made, from the set position, the pitcher must check the baserunners to make sure they are not leading off the bag too far.