Played by two teams each having nine players, baseball is a batting. For a player to score, he needs to hit the thrown ball with his bat and proceed to touch four bases that are arranged at corners in a series. Such a player therefore plays against the pitcher of the fielding team whose teammates also try to prevent the player from scoring by taking hitters out. The winning team is usually the team with highest number of runs.
The pitcher often is the player with the heaviest responsibility and requires that he is well prepared before the ball is set rolling. There are various ways through which you can prepare and play effectively to enable your team to win.
Stretching
Like in any other sport, it is very important to stretch so as to ensure that your body is not only flexible but also well toned. Stretching for a baseball game requires that you focus on your arms as you will need strong arms to pitch. Apart from your upper body, ensure that the rest of your body is also well toned.
Long tossing
Long tossing is another very effective way of getting ready to pitch. This is a process in which you stay close to your teammate for the purpose of staying warm. Every time you receive the ball, step back before stepping forward again whenever you receive balls. This process ensures that you stay warm and therefore capable of playing without any hitches.
Ball throwing
One effective way in getting ready to pitch is to throw balls with your catcher. Doing so provides you with a good opportunity to go over pitching signals or game signs stickers you will employ during the main game. It will be beneficial to ensure that your arms stay warm.
Bullpen
Practicing in a Bullpen with your catcher is one of the most effective ways to getting ready to pitch. This is where you can test your pitches and ascertain whether or not your fastball and off speed are effective. It is from such practice that you get to know the kind of pitch you can successfully employ in an upcoming game.
Your coach
Apart from your teammates and catcher, your coach is a very important person you cannot ignore when it comes to getting ready to pitch. It is your coach you should be very truthful to especially when your arm hurts. Note that it is always a good idea to miss a game rather than pitch with a hurting arm.
Pitching
Pitching during the main game is certainly your ultimate moment as a pitcher. Apart from employing your baseball skills, one important preparation you need to undertake is to ascertain the condition of the hole you will step on when pitching. Do splash some dirt in the hole should it be slippery. This is also the time to watch out for all the pitching signals that your catcher indicates. Should it be necessary, take time out to talk to him if you do not understand the signals he sends. You can use game signs stickers or body language instead of using just fingers.
There is certainly no game that you can play successfully without adequate preparation. Success in baseball, especially as a pitcher requires that you prepare well not only long before a game but also during a game. Whenever it seems necessary, always remember you can always ask for a time out.