Welcome Back to the Mound
Welcome Back All You Collegiate, HS and youth baseball pitchers
Baseball is back in the air! With the off-season winding down and preseason ramping up, it’s time for players, coaches, and fans to shift gears. The focus this month? Pitching. Whether you’re a youth player, high school standout, a collegiate arm, or working through the minors, how you prepare now will shape the season ahead.
The Pre-Season Mindset for Pitchers
Pre-season isn’t just about warming up the arm—it’s about building a foundation. Here’s what elite pitchers are prioritizing this month:
- Arm Health & Recovery
After months of rest or light work, controlled ramp-up is key. Long toss, mobility routines, and structured bullpens help minimize the risk of early-season injuries. - Mechanics Tune-Up
Now’s the time to fix those flaws. Video analysis and professional feedback from Throwzone Academy can refine mechanics before intensity picks up. - Command Over Velocity
Chasing radar numbers too soon is a trap. Establishing repeatable mechanics and locating pitches with purpose should come first. Velocity will come with time and rhythm…..and after the first 4 weeks….. and then will become a primary focus especially for our older players where high velocity will determine how your season will go as a starter, reliever and/or closer.
Throwing Progression Sample Plan
For pitchers still building up, here’s a basic 4-week ramp-up model:
| Week | Focus | Bullpen Intensity | Pitch Count |
| 1 | Flat-ground work, dry drills | Light | 15-20 |
| 2 | Controlled bullpens | Moderate | 25-30 |
| 3 | Add breaking pitches | Moderate/Heavy | 35-40 |
| 4 | Simulated ABs / Live BP | Game Intensity | 40-50 |
Note: Always follow guidelines for age, level, and recent workload.
Analytics Corner: What the Data Says
Recent preseason studies show that pitchers who ramp up over 4-6 weeks reduce their injury risk by over 30% compared to those who go from zero to max intensity in under two weeks.
Also, preseason bullpens with targeted feedback and pitch tracking lead to improved in-season command by up to 15%, according to Driveline and MLB development systems.
Coach’s Tip of the Month
“Preseason is where pitchers earn their season. It’s not about showing off—it’s about showing up, day after day, getting 1% better.”
— Coach Tim Delgado, AAA Pitching Coordinator
Final Thought: The pre-season is where discipline meets opportunity. If you’re a pitcher, this is your window. Build your base, trust your process, and don’t rush the heat. Great seasons begin with smart preparation. See you on the bump!
Until next time…
Jim
Jim Wagner's ThrowZone Academy 