Throwing a baseball is one of the most fundamental—and often most overlooked—skills in youth baseball. Whether your child is just starting out or wants to sharpen their accuracy and arm strength, learning the correct way to throw sets the foundation for long-term success and safety on the field.
🧱 Why Proper Throwing Mechanics Matter
Throwing may look simple, but poor form can lead to bad habits, wild throws, and even arm injuries. Teaching kids how to throw the right way helps them:
- Build arm strength gradually
- Improve accuracy and consistency
- Avoid shoulder and elbow strain
- Develop confidence on the field
At BedStuy Sluggers, we start with the basics and make it fun so that kids of all ages feel comfortable and confident as they grow their skills.
âšľ Step-by-Step: The Proper Throwing Technique
Here’s a simple guide to teach your child how to throw correctly—whether in the backyard or at practice.
1. Grip the Ball
Hold the baseball with your index and middle fingers across the seams (like a peace sign). The thumb should be directly underneath the ball for support.
Tip: Avoid gripping with the whole hand or palm—it weakens control and slows down release.
2. Proper Stance
Start by standing sideways, facing your target. The glove side should point at the target, and the throwing shoulder should be back.
- Feet shoulder-width apart
- Knees slightly bent
- Body relaxed and balanced
3. Separation & Arm Motion
Bring your hands together in front of your chest, then separate your throwing hand and glove. As you lift the throwing arm, rotate your body slightly to prepare for the throw.
Cue: “Show the ball to second base” — this ensures proper rotation.
4. Step and Throw
Step toward your target with your glove-side foot. Rotate your hips and shoulders, and follow through with your arm as you release the ball.
- Finish with your throwing hand across your body
- Back leg naturally comes forward as momentum continues
🛠️ Fun Drills to Practice at Home
You don’t need fancy equipment to improve throwing. Here are two quick drills to try this week:
🎯 Accuracy Targets:
Set up a bucket, cone, or soft target and have your child aim for it 10–15 times.
đź‘Ł Step & Throw:
Mark a line for foot placement and have your player practice stepping and throwing with control and balance.
đź’¬ Final Thoughts
Remember: repetition builds muscle memory. Even 10 minutes of throwing a few times a week can make a huge difference. At BedStuy Sluggers, we focus on getting the basics right so players feel confident and play safely.
Let’s build the foundation for great baseball together—one throw at a time.