I have been diligently working to build a robust community of athletes dedicated to mastering the art of pitching and cultivating the mindset necessary for excellence. Over the years, I've observed a negative perception surrounding pitchers at the lower levels, often referred to as “PO,” which stands for “Pitcher Only”. Simultaneously, I witness players with exceptional throwing abilities being overused, leading to injuries. It frustrates me when teams or coaches perpetuate this stigma for young pitchers. For over a century, the pitcher has been the cornerstone of the battery, and I believe that will remain unchanged. This position is crucial to any team, yet many young athletes shy away from it. Being a pitcher involves more than just stepping onto the mound and throwing hard. It begins with the physical capability to maintain proper mechanics throughout the game. You need to approach the mound with a strategy, aggressively challenging hitters while maintaining control and adaptability. Additionally, you must be adept at holding runners and fielding your position. The Pitching Squad is a community based in Chicago, uniting pitchers from various schools across the city. We provide these athletes with valuable resources and tools to enhance their physical and mental performance. There is a significant gap in quality pitching development in Chicago, and I am determined to address this issue. As baseball evolves, relying solely on theoretical instruction is no longer sufficient. Commitment to thorough evaluation, understanding mobility limitations, prioritizing arm care, nutrition, and honing your skills as a pitcher is essential.
"Don't be afraid of failure. Try to make the best pitch you can and don't worry about the rest. Sometimes it will go your way and sometimes it won't. Don't dwell on things that don't go your way. Just bear down and focus on the next hitter!"