This is a unique opportunity for middle school pitchers to work with our Director of Pitching Spenser Davis. Spenser is very knowledgeable when it comes to understanding pitch shape/skill and has helped developed pitch shape/skill with current minor league pitchers, Brenan Hanifee (Tigers), Daniel Ouderirk (Mariners), Zach Peek (Orioles) and Bryan Sammons (Tigers) ; current D1 college pitchers Evan Bert (VCU) and Noah Hertzler (William and Mary); former D1 pitcher Reid Celeta (UMBC) and numerous other current/former college D2/D3 pitchers as well as area high school pitchers.

This camp will focus on teaching middle school pitchers:

  1. How to use the seams on the ball to influence the shape of the specific pitch
  2. How wrist position and/or finger position can influence the shape of a pitch
  3. How to work on pitch shape during catch play/long toss using simple tools such as Clean Fuego or a baseball with specific lines drawn on it
  4. How to best throw their pitches in a way that are most effective
  5. How to utilize affordable technology such as Pitch Logic in their own bullpen sessions

The pitchers will also be shown Rapsodo pitching techology, how to use it, how to interpret the data, how to individualize the data, and some basic comparisons of their pitches to the rapsodo database of high level pro pitchers.

The goal of this camp is to have the pitchers working from the mound 2x per week. The intensity will likely vary from 70%-85% of full effort. Part of developing excellent pitch shape as well as command of that pitch is working from the mound as much as possible. Research has shown that throwing from the mound is actually less stressful than throwing a flat ground assuming equal volume and intensity. The pitchers will be monitored with Pulse Sensors (measures elbow stress and arm speed) and velocity tracker to be sure their intensity is at the appropriate level to allow them to recover from their weekend games as well as keep them prepared for upcoming games.

Here are some example of how Spenser helps develop pitch shape with our guys, the set up we use and the information he provides them:

Details:

Who: Current Middle School baseball players

Space: Limited to 4 kids only

Dates: September 5th through October 26

Days/Times: Tuesdays and Thursdays 6:00-7:15PM

Cost: $370

For more information or to register, contact Mike Martin at 540-421-0360 or mikenladsports@mikemartinnextlevel