Hubbry Logo
Pitching positionPitching positionMain
Open search
Pitching position
Community hub
Pitching position
logo
7 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Pitching position
Pitching position
Pitching position
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

In baseball, there are two legal pitching positions: the windup, and the set. Colloquially, the set is often referred to as "the stretch", although this term actually only refers to one part of the pitching motion when pitching from the set.[1]

Definitions

[edit]

Windup

[edit]

A pitcher is in the windup when, with the ball, the pitcher stands on or directly in front of the pitching rubber, located at the top of the mound, with their feet pointing toward home plate. Prior to throwing a pitch, the pitcher has the option of taking one step back toward second base or to either side, using their free leg (left leg for a right-handed pitcher). During the delivery of the pitch, the pitcher must take one step forward, in the direction of home plate. Alternatively, the pitcher may step off the rubber with their pivot foot (the right foot, for right-handed pitchers) or step toward and throw or feign a throw to a base, subject to the balk rules. The balk rules do not apply if there are no runners on base. In the windup, the time of pitch is the instant when one of the following occurs: the pitcher commits to taking a step backward, or they take a step to the side, or bring their hands together.

Set

[edit]
Mariano Rivera, closer for the New York Yankees, having come set
Jimmy Haynes of the Cincinnati Reds, pitching from the set, just before the time of pitch

A pitcher is in the set when, with the ball, they stand on, or directly in front of—and touching—the pitching rubber, with their toes pointing toward the side (toward third base for a right-handed pitcher) and their arms apart at their sides. This initial part of the set is called the stretch, because the pitcher usually stretches toward home plate to take signs from the catcher. At this point, the pitcher may make any number of preparatory movements necessary for delivering the pitch. The pitcher may optionally throw to a base or disengage the rubber, but in order to pitch, he first brings his arms together in front of his body (a movement punctuated with a discernible pause). This is called coming set. After coming set, the pitcher takes a step toward home and delivers the pitch. Typically, pitchers from the set use a high leg kick, thus lunging toward home in pitching; a pitcher may instead release the ball more quickly by using the slide step, quickly stepping directly and immediately toward home and pitching. In the set position, the time of pitch is that instant when the pitcher makes a move toward home plate after coming set.

As with the windup, prior to the time of pitch, the pitcher may step toward and throw or feign a throw to a base, subject to the balk rules, or disengage the rubber by stepping back (toward second base) with their pivot foot.

Strengths and weaknesses

[edit]

Both types of pitching position have their strengths and weaknesses. Compared to the set, the windup has a relatively slower execution, and it is therefore better suited for situations in which there are no baserunners or when the lead runner is on third base, because it is difficult to steal home plate. Conversely, a pitch from the set, having a relatively faster execution, is preferred when there are baserunners. Faster execution is important to prevent stolen bases.

However, some pitchers, particularly relief pitchers, are more comfortable pitching from the set position and thus use it regardless of the situation. Whether a pitcher starts from the windup or the stretch is all about what feels best for their own personal preference. The reason more than half of pitchers start from the windup position is because that type of motion gets a little bit more of a rhythm going before pitching.

Impact

[edit]

Data analysis indicates that pitch velocity is equivalent whether thrown from the windup or the set position.[2]

Additionally, common wisdom is that the set is less damaging to the connective tissue of a pitcher's arm, but research in this area has been unable to support this hypothesis.[3]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Pitching position

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
In , the pitching position refers to one of the two legal stances a must adopt on the when delivering the ball to the batter: the windup position or the set position, also known as the stretch. These positions are governed by official rules to standardize delivery mechanics, prevent deceptive motions, and maintain game integrity, with either allowable at any time regardless of base runners. The windup position begins with the pitcher's pivot foot on the pitching rubber and both shoulders facing the batter to some degree, while the free foot starts in contact with the ground and may step backward before a forward stride. This setup enables a full rocking motion—often involving a leg lift and arm wind-up—to build momentum, and it permits disengagement from the rubber for pickoff attempts by stepping backward with the pivot foot. Pitchers frequently use the windup with empty bases to optimize power generation, as the extended motion allows for greater stride length and leverage from the back leg. By contrast, the set position requires the pivot foot on the rubber, the free foot forward, and both hands holding the in front of the body, with the coming to a complete and natural stop before any motion toward the batter. The delivery emphasizes a compact stance to enable rapid throws to occupied bases. This position is standard with runners on base to minimize steal opportunities through a quicker release time, and variations like the slide step can further accelerate the motion without altering legality. Biomechanical analyses reveal subtle differences between the positions, with the windup yielding marginally higher ball velocities—particularly at the collegiate level—but these gains are clinically insignificant (under 0.5 m/s) and do not extend to professional or high school pitchers. Both positions produce comparable joint torques, angular velocities, and overall stress on the and , indicating similar risks and allowing pitchers to select based on situational needs or personal comfort rather than substantial performance trade-offs.

Windup Position

The windup position serves as the traditional full-motion starting stance for a pitcher, primarily used when the bases are empty to maximize and deception in the delivery. In this stance, the pitcher stands facing the batter with the pivot foot firmly in contact with the pitcher's plate and the free foot positioned free on the ground, typically slightly behind or adjacent to the plate with both feet parallel to the rubber's front edge. The hands are held together in front of the body, above the waist, while the shoulders face the batter to some degree, often with the pitcher's body aligned toward the third base line (for a right-handed pitcher) to support the rotational motion. This setup ensures stability and allows for a complete preparatory windup without violating engagement rules. The initial motion from the windup begins with a slight step backward using the free foot—no more than one step—to load balance and initiate , keeping the pivot foot in contact with the rubber throughout. The hands, initially together, then separate as the begins the delivery, with the hand moving backward and upward in a full arm circle to generate power before coming forward toward the plate. This step-by-step progression commits the to a continuous delivery without interruption, distinguishing it as a deliberate, extended preparation compared to other stances. Historically, the windup functioned as the original legal pitching position in baseball's early rules, serving as the standard delivery method. Visual Alignment of Windup Stance (Right-Handed Pitcher):
  • Pivot Foot: Directly on the rubber, heel against the back edge.
  • Free Foot: Parallel to pivot foot, 4-6 inches behind or beside the rubber.
  • Body Orientation: Shoulders square to batter, torso slightly turned toward third base line.
  • Hands: Clasped at chest level, elbows relaxed.
In contrast to the set position, which enables quicker deliveries with runners on base, the windup emphasizes a complete, unhurried motion for optimal pitch effectiveness on empty bases.

Set Position

The set position, also known as the stretch position, is a compact pitching stance primarily employed when runners are on base, allowing the pitcher to maintain readiness for potential pickoff attempts while preparing to deliver the ball to the batter. In this position, the pitcher stands facing the batter with the pivot foot in contact with the pitcher's plate (rubber), the free foot positioned in front and parallel to the plate, and both hands together holding the ball in front of the body, typically at chest or waist level. This setup ensures the pitcher's body is oriented toward home plate, facilitating quick transitions between pitching and fielding motions. A key requirement of the set position is that the pitcher must come to a complete and discernible stop after assuming the stance and before beginning the delivery motion, particularly with runners on base, to prevent and ensure fairness in the game. This stop allows the catcher to relay signals clearly and gives baserunners a fair opportunity to observe the pitcher's intentions. Failure to achieve this complete stop constitutes a , advancing all runners. With no runners on base, the stop is not strictly enforced, though umpires may call an illegal pitch if the motion appears deceptive. Variations within the set position include the stretch, which serves as a preliminary motion where the extends the arms naturally before joining the hands and stopping, all in one continuous action without interruption. Another common variation is the slide step, where the shortens the leg lift and steps directly toward home plate more quickly than in a standard set delivery, aiming to reduce the time for baserunners to advance while maintaining velocity and control. These adaptations enhance the 's ability to hold runners close to the bases. Official rules mandate that the receive signals from the while remaining in contact with the pitcher's plate during the set position, ensuring clear communication of pitch selection before any commitment to delivery. Additionally, the pitcher may not a throw to a base without first disengaging the rubber by stepping backward off it with the pivot foot, as such actions from the set position would otherwise result in a . Unlike the windup position, which involves a more deliberate leg lift for generating power in empty-base scenarios, the set position prioritizes compactness and alertness over maximum buildup.

Mechanics and Technique

Balance and Motion

In baseball pitching, maintaining balance begins with proper weight transfer from the pivot (back) leg to the stride (front) leg during the transition from the initial position to foot contact, which generates forward while preserving equilibrium. This transfer is initiated by pushing off the rubber with the pivot leg, shifting the center of mass linearly toward home plate to maximize energy efficiency. Hip-lead initiation follows, where the rotates toward the target (approximately 35°) ahead of the shoulders, establishing separation in the kinetic chain to drive rotational power without compromising stability. Avoiding over-rotation is critical, as excessive pelvic or trunk twisting disrupts this separation and reduces control; pitchers must rely on core strength and flexibility to sequence rotations properly. The motion sequence commences with the leg lift in the wind-up or set position, raising the lead knee to about 90° at the balance point, where weight shifts primarily to the pivot leg for stability. The leg lift differs between the windup and stretch (set) positions, particularly in relief situations. In the windup, used when bases are empty, pitchers employ a full motion with a high leg kick to generate added torque and power. Conversely, in the stretch, standard when runners are on base and the default for relievers even with empty bases, the motion is shortened with reduced leg kick height to enable quicker delivery times and better control of baserunners, helping maintain velocity in high-pressure contexts. From this point, the stride phase propels the lead leg forward, achieving a length typically 80-90% of the pitcher's height—measured from the pivot ankle to the lead ankle at —to optimize and accuracy. emphasize stability, with the lead foot contacting the ground slightly closed (4 to 14 inches closed, with toes pointing inward) and the flexed around 45°, creating a firm base that absorbs impact and facilitates subsequent rotations. Common faults in this phase include rushing the motion from the balance point, which often results from dropping the lead prematurely and leads to an open foot contact, short stride, and loss of control over pitch location. This rushing disrupts energy transfer, causing balls to sail high or wide; corrective techniques involve drills to maintain knee height during the lift and controlled timing in the stride, such as pause-and-go exercises to build rhythm. Another frequent issue is inadequate hip control during weight transfer, restricting rotation and forcing compensatory upper-body actions; strengthening the and improving hip through targeted mobility work can address this. At its core, the physics of balance and motion in pitching relies on the conservation of within the kinetic chain, where generated from the lower body—starting with hip rotation—is sequentially transferred upward to the trunk and , amplifying ball speed while minimizing stress. This principle ensures that the initial from the legs and hips is preserved and amplified through proximal-to-distal sequencing, as deviations like poor weight transfer dissipate momentum prematurely.

Arm and Body Coordination

In pitching, arm and body coordination synchronizes the upper extremities with trunk to transfer efficiently from the lower body to the , maximizing while minimizing joint stress. This integration occurs primarily during the cocking and acceleration phases, where the arm achieves optimal positioning relative to the rotating torso. The arm path differs notably between the windup and set positions to accommodate varying situations. In the windup, the throwing arm follows a full extension overhead during the initial leg lift and stride, enabling maximal external of 150-180 degrees in the late cocking phase for greater power generation. This full motion aligns with the high leg kick for torque in empty-base scenarios. Conversely, in the set position, the arm path is abbreviated, initiating from a lower, more compact position without the overhead hand break to allow quicker setup and reduce motion variability with baserunners present; this shortened approach, common for relievers, supports faster delivery and consistent velocity. At release, pronation—reaching approximately 90 degrees—facilitates grip release, enabling precise spin and control through coordinated supination adjustments. Trunk rotation is essential for torque production, with the shoulders leading the hips by 30-55 degrees of separation at stride foot contact, creating a stretch-shortening cycle that amplifies rotational . This separation generates substantial , where peak transverse trunk rotational correlates strongly with ball speed, explaining up to 69% of variability through core contributions estimated at 50-80% of total power. Maintaining a consistent release point, typically at a height of about 6 feet for MLB pitchers, ensures command and . Arm extension during this phase—often 6-7 feet forward from the rubber—further enhances effectiveness by shortening the distance to the plate, boosting perceived by 1-2 mph without altering actual release speed. To develop this coordination, pitchers employ targeted drills like the towel drill, where a lightweight towel replaces the ball to emphasize lag behind trunk rotation, refining timing and reducing compensatory movements during the acceleration phase.

Modern Pitching Mechanics

Modern research on pitching mechanics emphasizes biomechanical analysis to enhance performance and mitigate injury risks, with organizations like Driveline Baseball providing valuable insights through data-driven studies. A notable study by Erickson et al. (2016) investigated the effects of fatigue on adolescent male pitchers during a simulated game, revealing decreases in pitching velocity alongside increases in fatigue and pain levels; notably, fatigue in leg and core muscles preceded observable changes in arm mechanics, highlighting the importance of monitoring overall body fatigue to prevent compensatory injuries. Chu et al. (2016) provided a comprehensive review of the kinetic chain in overhead throwing, detailing its phases—wind-up, cocking, acceleration, and follow-through—and underscoring the proximal-to-distal energy transfer sequence essential for efficient mechanics and injury prevention in baseball pitching. Regarding elbow stress, Aguinaldo and Chambers (2009) correlated throwing mechanics with elbow valgus load in adult pitchers, identifying key factors such as late trunk rotation, greater shoulder external rotation, and increased elbow flexion as contributors to higher valgus torque, which can elevate ulnar collateral ligament injury risk; proper timing of trunk rotation was shown to reduce these loads significantly.

Historical Development

Origins in Early

In the nascent stages of organized before 1845, pitching was an informal act derived from earlier like , with no codified positions or deliveries; pitchers typically lobbed the ball underhand from an unmarked spot roughly 45 feet from home base to facilitate hitting rather than challenge batters. This underhand style emphasized a gentle toss with a stiff , reflecting the game's social and recreational roots among amateur clubs in the . The formalization of pitching positions began with the Knickerbocker Rules of 1845, drafted by , which required the pitcher to stand on a straight line 45 feet from home plate, delivering underhand with both feet on the ground and the arm parallel to the body. This setup confined the pitcher to a simple stance without a defined , prioritizing fairness and hittable pitches over velocity or deception. By the , rules evolved to include a pitcher's —initially a 12-by-3-foot area in 1863—to restrict movement and prevent running starts, maintaining the underhand requirement while gradually allowing elbow bends in 1872 for subtle wrist snaps. The National League, founded in as the first major professional circuit, introduced more structured stance rules in the late , adopting a 4-by-6-foot pitcher's box by with the front edge at 45 feet from home, and mandating the hand remain below the waist to curb aggressive motions. These regulations built on precedents but enforced them rigorously in professional play, where pitchers like experimented with delivery innovations; Cummings, credited with inventing the in while on an Brooklyn team, twisted his wrist underhand to impart spin, sparking widespread motion experimentation that tested rule boundaries. Professionals, facing competitive pressures, adopted such variations faster than , who adhered longer to traditional underhand lobs in club games to uphold the sport's gentlemanly ethos. By the early , pitchers increasingly violated underhand restrictions, leading to the legalization of overhand delivery in and paving the way for the windup's standardization.

Evolution in Modern Rules

In the early , baseball rules governing pitching positions evolved to balance offensive opportunities with defensive control, particularly as the game shifted toward higher scoring in the . A key change in 1920 updated the rule (Rule 34, Section 12), making the ball dead upon a balk call and allowing all runners to advance one base if the balk occurred with bases occupied; this reinforced the mandate for pitchers to use the set position when runners were on base, while permitting the full windup only with the bases empty to minimize deception and facilitate quicker pickoff attempts. The 1950s saw further refinements to curb deceptive practices from the set position, driven by umpires' observations of pitchers feinting motions to unsettle runners. In 1950, the rules governing the set position (Rule 2.61) were amended to require a "complete stop of at least one second" before delivery from the set position with runners on base, replacing the previous vague requirement for merely "a stop," thereby standardizing enforcement and promoting strategic clarity in holding runners. This adjustment aimed to accelerate gameplay by reducing prolonged stalling while preserving the set position's role in pickoff plays. The brought technology and data-driven changes to enhance pace of play, with the 2023 introduction of the significantly impacting set position usage. Under Rule 5.07(c), pitchers must begin their delivery within 20 seconds with runners on base (15 seconds with bases empty), limiting holds in the set position and integrating with penalties for violations; this rule, implemented league-wide, reduced average game time by about 30 minutes and altered strategies by discouraging extended runner monitoring.

Rules and Variations

Official Regulations

In (MLB), the official regulations for pitching positions are governed by Rule 5.07(a), which stipulates that there are two legal pitching deliveries: the windup position and the set position, either of which may be used at any time during the game. The windup position requires the pitcher to stand facing the batter with the pivot foot in contact with the pitcher's plate and the other foot free, allowing natural movement associated with the pitch, while the set position mandates the pivot foot in contact with the plate, the other foot in front, and the hands together holding the ball in front of the body, coming to a complete and discernible stop, and holding that position for at least one second before delivering the pitch. Any delivery not conforming to these positions, such as an undeclared hybrid motion that blends elements of both without proper adherence, is considered illegal and may result in a if runners are on base. A balk is defined under Rule 6.02(a) as an illegal act by the pitcher with a runner or runners on base, intended to deceive the runner(s), including motions from the set position that do not complete the pitch or a play, such as stepping off the rubber without first disengaging by clearly moving the pivot foot backward off the plate. Examples include failing to come to a complete stop in the set position before delivering the pitch (6.02(a)(13)), making a motion naturally associated with the pitch without delivering it (6.02(a)(1)), or dropping the ball while touching the plate (6.02(a)(10)). The penalty for a balk is that the ball is dead, and each runner advances one base; if the batter and all runners safely reach the bases they would have under a legal pitch, the balk is nullified and play continues. With bases unoccupied, such illegal actions constitute an illegal pitch, resulting in a ball being awarded to the batter (Rule 6.02(b)). Umpires enforce these regulations by closely monitoring the 's motions from their positions, particularly the home plate umpire and base umpires who signal a by pointing toward the while verbally calling "Balk!" to alert all participants. Enforcement includes immediate calling of the to nullify any subsequent play, with the becoming dead upon the call. Close calls, such as disputed disengagements or stops, may be subject to replay review if a manager challenges the call within the allowable time or if initiated by the crew chief, allowing video evidence to confirm or overturn the ruling under MLB's Replay Review Regulations. In youth and amateur leagues, such as for players aged 12 and under, regulations differ to prioritize safety and development; for instance, pitchers in Majors and below divisions are not required to come to a complete stop in the set position, and they may initiate a windup motion directly from the set position without penalty, reducing complexity and potential strain compared to MLB standards. These adaptations stem from historical rule evolutions aimed at minimizing injury risks in younger athletes.

Pitch Clock and Timing Constraints

In 2023, (MLB) implemented the as a key measure to accelerate game pace, mandating that pitchers begin their delivery within 15 seconds when the bases are empty or 20 seconds with runners on base from the set position; this was adjusted in 2024 to 18 seconds with runners on base. The timer activates once the pitcher possesses the ball on the and the batter is in the batter's box, halting only when the pitcher initiates motion toward home plate, applicable to both windup and set deliveries. This rule builds on prior testing and aims to minimize downtime without altering core gameplay elements. The pitch clock profoundly influences pitching motions by curtailing extended holds in the set position, where pitchers traditionally paused to deter base runners through prolonged stances or repeated pickoff attempts. With the timer running continuously unless reset by a disengagement (limited to two per ), pitchers must expedite transitions to delivery, reducing opportunities for strategic delays and fostering more fluid set-to-pitch sequences. In the windup position with empty bases, the stricter 15-second limit similarly compels quicker initiations of the full motion, streamlining overall delivery timing to comply with the constraints. The reduction to 18 seconds with runners further tightened pacing, contributing to sustained shorter game times. Violations occur if the pitcher fails to start delivery before the expires, resulting in an automatic awarded to the batter, which disrupts by penalizing hesitation and incentivizing proactive pacing over conservative runner control. This enforcement heightens the stakes for pitchers, as repeated infractions can shift pitch counts unfavorably, prompting adjustments in how they balance pickoff risks with timely deliveries. The rule briefly intersects with regulations, where time-pressured motions may inadvertently trigger calls if not executed properly. Adoption of the pitch clock extends globally, notably in Minor League Baseball (MiLB) starting in 2021 across levels like Triple-A, Double-A, and select Low-A affiliates as an experimental pace-of-play initiative. Implementation there yielded games averaging 20-25 minutes shorter, with nine-inning contests dropping significantly from prior three-hour norms through enforced timers between pitches, innings, and changes. In MLB's 2023 debut season, the rule contributed to a 24-minute reduction in average game length to 2 hours and 40 minutes, with further adjustments maintaining times around 2 hours and 38 minutes as of 2025, validating its efficacy in shortening play while maintaining competitive integrity.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Strategic Benefits

The windup position provides pitchers with a more fluid and complete kinetic chain, enabling greater generation and a natural rhythm that enhances overall command and efficiency. This setup is particularly beneficial for power pitches when the bases are empty, as it allows pitchers to load their legs more effectively for maximum force transfer. Biomechanical studies indicate that velocity can be slightly higher in the windup compared to the set position among collegiate pitchers, though the difference is minimal (less than 1.1 mph) and not significant at the level. In contrast, the set position—also known as the stretch—offers key defensive advantages when runners are on base, primarily through improved pickoff opportunities and a shortened delivery. Elite pitchers can catch approximately 5-6% of baserunners via pickoffs from the set, as demonstrated by Julio Urias's 5.7% rate (pickoffs per baserunner) in 2016, which helps disrupt baserunners and limit their leads. Additionally, the set position facilitates quicker delivery times to the plate compared to the windup, giving catchers more time to throw out potential stealers. Strategically, pitchers alternate between positions based on game situations to optimize control and deception: the windup for unleashing high-velocity strikes in empty-base scenarios to rack up strikeouts, and the set for maintaining runner containment during high-pressure at-bats. This situational deployment reduces success rates by complicating runners' timing, with the set position's expedited motion recommended specifically to prevent advances.

Potential Risks and Limitations

The windup position, characterized by its longer preparatory motion, exposes pitchers to heightened vulnerability against base stealers, as it limits quick disengagements or pickoff attempts compared to the set position. This extended delivery can facilitate successful steals, particularly at second base, since the pitcher must commit to the full motion once initiated, reducing the ability to hold runners close to the bases. Additionally, interruptions or hesitations in the windup with runners on base carry a risk of balk calls, as the motion must proceed without deception or pause to avoid advancing runners. In contrast, the set position (also known as the stretch) imposes limitations, including a potential minor reduction in pitch velocity for some pitchers due to the abbreviated stride and momentum buildup. Biomechanical analyses indicate that speeds are generally comparable between positions, with differences typically under 0.5 m/s (about 1 mph) and below , though individual variations may result in slightly lower velocities from the set. The constrained mechanics of the set align closely with the windup in terms of joint stress. Regarding injury correlations, studies on elbow valgus and joint loads show no clinically meaningful differences in stress between the windup and set positions, suggesting comparable risks for issues like ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tears. While overall pitching workload and velocity remain primary factors in injuries, the set position does not independently elevate risk beyond that of the windup, as and kinetics align closely across deliveries. To mitigate these risks, pitchers often incorporate hybrid training regimens that blend elements of both positions, fostering adaptable and reducing overuse of a single delivery style. Such programs emphasize balanced practice between windup and set to distribute physical demands, alongside strength conditioning for the lower body and core to support consistent and minimize strain accumulation.

Impact on the Game

Influence on Pitching Strategies

In baseball, the choice between the windup and stretch pitching positions significantly influences strategies involving base runners, particularly by allowing pitchers to switch to the stretch mid-inning upon the first runner reaching base, which shortens the delivery time and disrupts runners' timing for potential steals. This quicker motion from the stretch—averaging less time from leg lift to front foot contact compared to the windup—reduces the window for baserunners to gain an advantage, prompting managers to emphasize this transition as a tactical tool to maintain defensive control during innings with traffic on the bases. Pitchers often use the stretch position when runners are on base, including in late-game situations where relief pitchers frequently enter with runners already on base in high-leverage scenarios, enabling a rapid delivery that aligns with the need to limit scoring opportunities in close contests. This preference stems from the strategic deployment of bullpens in the seventh and beyond, where preserving leads requires minimizing runner advancement, and the stretch facilitates quicker throws to bases or home plate without sacrificing overall effectiveness. Coaching philosophies in youth often start with the stretch position as the foundational technique due to its simpler and to real-game pressures like holding runners. Instructors prioritize proper technique in both positions to foster rhythm and consistency, viewing proficiency as essential for long-term skill progression in young arms transitioning to competitive play. Analytics, particularly through MLB's system, play a key role in evaluating pitching position efficiency by quantifying variations in and delivery time, revealing that speeds can drop slightly in the stretch compared to the windup—often by less than 1 mph in levels. These insights guide team strategies, highlighting how the stretch's time-to-plate advantage outweighs minor trade-offs in runner-on-base scenarios, informing training and in-game decisions.

Notable Pitchers and Innovations

was known for utilizing a high leg kick in the windup position to generate exceptional velocity on his , which contributed to his MLB record of seven no-hitters across his career with the California Angels, Houston Astros, and Texas Rangers. This technique allowed Ryan to maintain overpowering speed well into his 40s, striking out a record 5,714 batters while minimizing hits allowed at a career rate of 6.56 per nine innings. Greg Maddux was renowned for his exceptional defensive skills from the set position, particularly his quick and accurate pickoffs that deterred baserunners and limited stolen bases against him. His proficiency in this position earned him a record 18 Gold Glove Awards, the most for any player at any position, highlighting how effective fielding from the set enhanced his overall control and strategy on the mound. Pedro Martinez disrupted batters' timing and reaction by reading their bat speed to adjust pitches for deception. This technique contributed to his dominance with a career of 2.93 and three Awards, as it complemented his precise command and variety of pitches. In modern baseball, mastery of transitioning between windup and set positions has supported Justin Verlander's longevity and versatility across game situations. This approach has supported his career, evidenced by three Awards (2011, 2019, 2022) and consistent performance into his 40s. Mastery of pitching positions has been a key factor in success, with winners like Maddux and Verlander demonstrating how optimized stances enhance control, power, and baserunner management, as analyzed in their award-winning seasons where efficient transitions correlated with low ERAs and high totals. For instance, Verlander's performance in led to a 2.58 and AL , underscoring positional adaptability as a hallmark of elite pitching.

References

  1. https://www.mlb.com/glossary/rules/windup-position
  2. https://www.mlb.com/glossary/rules/set-position
  3. https://baseballrulesacademy.com/official-rule/mlb/5-07-pitching/
  4. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/03635465241247543
  5. https://baseballrulesacademy.com/official-rule/mlb/rule-5-07a1/
  6. https://img.mlbstatic.com/mlb-images/image/upload/mlb/hhvryxqioipb87os1puw.pdf
  7. https://www.umpirebible.com/index.php/rules-pitching/pitching-positions
  8. https://retrosheet.org/rules/RulesChangesSummary.pdf
  9. https://baseballrulesacademy.com/official-rule/mlb-umpire-manual/windup-position/
  10. https://baseballrulesacademy.com/official-rule/mlb/5-07a2-set-position/
  11. https://baseballrulesacademy.com/lesson/the-stretch-position-and-the-set-position-2/
  12. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9950989/
  13. https://www.physio-pedia.com/Throwing_Biomechanics
  14. https://www.mlb.com/glossary/pitching/windup-position
  15. https://www.mlb.com/glossary/pitching/stretch
  16. https://www.baseballmode.com/why-do-relief-pitchers-pitch-from-the-stretch/
  17. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10324285/
  18. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3811736/
  19. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3445080/
  20. https://www.baseballprospectus.com/news/article/28982/whats-in-a-delivery-detailing-mechanical-attributes/
  21. https://www.platecrate.com/blogs/news/why-do-relief-pitchers-always-pitch-from-the-stretch
  22. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11698006/
  23. https://rocklandpeakperformance.com/pitching-biomechanics-hip-shoulder-separation-closing-the-gap/
  24. https://kb.osu.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/b93c8d5c-b0e6-53e9-aaa0-ef88c5199bff/content
  25. https://teammstrd.com/where-does-velocity-come-from/
  26. https://www.prospectslive.com/2022-draft-eligible-college-pitchers-with-unique-release-heights/
  27. https://www.mlb.com/news/spencer-strider-shane-mcclanahan-release-extension
  28. https://pitcherlist.com/going-deep-perceived-velocity/
  29. https://bmcsportsscimedrehabil.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13102-021-00255-7
  30. https://www.drivelinebaseball.com/pitching-research-pitching-mechanics/
  31. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26952088/
  32. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26972269/
  33. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19633230/
  34. https://www.mlb.com/news/why-is-the-mound-60-ft-6-inches-away
  35. https://ourgame.mlblogs.com/a-brief-history-of-the-pitching-distance-3210e7874d5c
  36. https://thebaseballumpire.com/the-history-of-pitching/
  37. https://www.19cbaseball.com/field-8.html
  38. https://www.baseball-almanac.com/rulechng.shtml
  39. https://sabr.org/gamesproj/game/october-7-1867-candy-cummings-debuts-the-curve/
  40. https://baseballhall.org/hall-of-famers/cummings-candy
  41. https://ourgame.mlblogs.com/pioneers-candy-cummings-16bf0d7a3038
  42. https://milkeespress.com/PlayingRulesYearbyYearPre1950.pdf
  43. https://retrosheet.org/rules/PlayingRulesYearbyYear1950-.pdf
  44. https://www.mlb.com/news/history-of-mlb-rules-changes
  45. https://mktg.mlbstatic.com/mlb/official-information/2025-official-baseball-rules.pdf
  46. https://www.umpirebible.com/index.php/2-rules/53-umpire-signals-signals
  47. https://www.mlb.com/glossary/rules/replay-review
  48. https://www.mlb.com/glossary/rules/pitch-timer
  49. https://www.mlb.com/news/mlb-2023-rule-changes-pitch-timer-larger-bases-shifts
  50. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/4199531/2021/09/16/minor-league-pitch-clock-cut-game-times-by-21-minutes-in-2021/
  51. https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38551264/mlb-game-dropped-240-pitch-clock
  52. https://www.milb.com/news/mlb-announces-playing-rules-to-be-tested-during-2021-minor-league-season
  53. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38687464/
  54. https://www.mlb.com/news/julio-urias-is-elite-at-picking-runners-off-c201529774
  55. https://tht.fangraphs.com/tht-live/does-the-stretch-cost-a-pitcher-fastball-speed/
  56. https://baseballrulesacademy.com/official-rule/mlb-umpire-manual/set-vs-windup-position/
  57. https://www.drivelinebaseball.com/2019/03/injury-risk-performance-velocity/
  58. https://www.mlb.com/news/jp-sears-reintroduces-windup-to-pitching-pattern
  59. https://www.siouxempirebaseball.org/news_article/show/901653-pitching-basics-stretch-vs-windup
  60. https://betterpitching.com/coaching-youth-pitchers-installment-three-windup-or-stretch/
  61. https://www.baseballprospectus.com/news/article/95744/best-of-bp-the-value-of-relative-velocity/
  62. https://www.quora.com/What-made-Nolan-Ryan-different-from-other-pitchers-in-his-ability-to-throw-with-such-velocity-He-did-not-have-longer-arms-How-did-he-do-it
  63. https://baseballhall.org/hall-of-famers/ryan-nolan
  64. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bge3jWTjKok
  65. https://baseballhall.org/hall-of-famers/maddux-greg
  66. https://blogs.fangraphs.com/pedro-martinez-on-the-art-and-science-of-pitching/
  67. https://www.mlb.com/player/justin-verlander-434378
  68. https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/verlaju01.shtml
  69. https://www.mlb.com/awards/cy-young
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.