Younger brothers pitching.

Question
Dear Michael,

My name is cory and my younger brotheras name is josh.  First off he has a great arm, he just turned 13 and he is 6 feet tall and weighs 150 pounds.  His fastball ranges from 72-74 but can top out at 79.  He also throws two changeups (Texas and box) he also can throw a nice knuckle-curve.  I have to him to trainers and they tell me to shorten his stride to less the his body legnth, but he feels more comfrotuble striding longer.  I was woundering which is better a short compact stride or a longer one.  He has better control striding longer.  I am trying to get him ready to pitch in middle school becaus he is going to be in the eight grade.  Any advise will help.

Thank you.

Answer
Cory,

First off I want to commend you on your question and description of your brother.  I think you are an awesome big brother and I am very excited for you and your younger brother as I believe you are going to work very hard to help him become the best he can be.  Many older brothers would not do that, but you obviously love your brother very much and you have a special relationship that will last forever.

Now, the length of the stride very much depends on the pitcher. My son, who is about your brothers size right now and a little older, takes a what would be considered to be a long stride.  In fact, we do have to keep his stride in check at times to keep him from over-striding.  Over-striding will simply cause the pitcher to lose balance and control and some velocity.  You have to find what works best for your brother.

The key is to get the upper body out flexed forward over the bent front leg with the arm and release point in front of the body. This will allow maximum velocity with maximum control and result in pitches that are down in the zone.  Pitchers can always survive down in the zone. This also allows you to throw with less stress on the arm.

So to answer your question, the stride needs to suit the pitcher. It sounds like your brother is a longer strider and that is OK.  As long as he is in control and does not lose balance or mechanics, he is good.

Have fun!!!