Pitches

Question
With a 65 -68 mph fastball at age 13 and a change-up at 54 - 56 mph how hard should i throw my curve to make hitters off balanced

Answer
hi david
thanks for the question.

at 13 i would have you use nothing but your fastball and change. the difference in speed is fine.

you need to be able to throw the fastball in and out as well as up and down. your change needs to be for a strike when behind in the count and out of the zone when ahead to quality hitters.

i would suggest not using the curve for a while. it is fine to practice it on the sideline but do not use it in games for a while. why?
most young pitchers fall in love with the curve and begin to neglect the change. i feel other that your fast ball and change are your bread and butter pitches. the curve is a fun pitch you can develop and use accordingly.

i have seen way too many guys not develop the change, and as they grow older there are plenty of nites the curve is not good. then all they have is the fast ball. don't worry about the speed difference from fastball to curve--each pitcher is unique in this area.


hope this helps.

steve