Bullpen Routine

Practicing pitching in the bullpen requires some basic knowledge of "bringing pitches along simultaneously." That is a term used as a mechanism for working on a proper release point and ball rotation. Many young pitchers make the mistake of not having a specific goal to accomplish during the throwing session. They jump right up on the mound, play catch until they are loose, and then "air it out" (100% effort) without any plan or objectives to work on. Another common pitching practice mistake is throwing without awareness of pitching inside or outside.

Pitchers must understand how to "bring pitches along", throwing to both sides of the plate, and the correct amount of exertion as well as sufficient time length to complete an effective bullpen session. These are the exact bullpen methods used by the Atlanta Braves.

As a starter, throw two bullpens in the middle of a five-day rotation. Complete the start and take the next day off completely to allow recovery. The second and third days are workdays on the mound. The objective is to improve command of all pitches. Play catch to get loose and set the catcher up insider to a right hand hitter. Throw 15 pitches middle-in to get full extension. Next move the catcher to the other side of the plate and throw 15 pitches middle-away. Use both a two seam and a four seam fastball. Concentrate on finding the ideal release point for pinpoint location. Next work on a breaking ball concentrating on rotation. Move the catcher inside (away from throwing side). Throw 15 breaking balls. After breaking balls go back to fastballs-5 to each side of the plate. Don't throw your fastball down the middle during pitching practice. Next move to change-ups if that is your third best pitch. Start with your best pitch and work down in rank. Throw 10 changes to the middle of the plate concentrating on keeping the ball down. After this sequence is completed you may go back and work on specific pitches and locations always followed by fastballs to both sides of the plate. At this point you have brought your pitches along simultaneously.

There are several factors that will influence the amount of exertion that should be put out during a bullpen session. The number of pitches thrown in the last start, arm weariness (youth pitchers do not throw at all if you experience any arm soreness or weariness whatsoever) and days before the next start. Use common sense. Over-exertion leads to bad mechanics as well as laboring through the pitches. 75% effort allows you to find a good release point without trying to do too much. When mechanics start to falter or fatigue settles in, it's time to wrap up the pitching session. The total process should last between 15 and 30 minutes depending on how much fine-tuning is needed.

Work approximately 50 to 60% of the bullpen from the stretch. Probably the most important pitches are thrown from the stretch. Good supervision is vital to a successful bullpen.

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