AboutJohn Priest Expertise I currently work for the Nokona Baseball Factory as the Baseball Fudamentals expert. I design all training programs and work closly with the major league baseball players. I can answer all questions regarding baseball fundementals from the little league to the professional level. I have the most knowledge in hitting mechanics and fundamentals and the development of power and batspeed. I can also answer all questions for catchers, pitchers, infielders, and outfielders. I also have experience coaching at the high school and AAU levels.
Experience I am currently the Nokona Batman (www.nokonawreckingcrew.com). I am the baseball fundamentals expert for the company. I have played through college, and semi pro baseball. For the past 10 years I have been doing instruction for all age and ability levels. Numerous clients of mine have gone on to play in college and some are playing in the minor leagues.
Publications I produce all baseball fundamental publications for the Nokona Baseball Factory.
Education/Credentials I am currently back in school to finish my major.
Question I am 14 and last fall was starting SS, and never made a bad throw, but when I returned this season my throw felt off. It feels like I'm "pushing" the ball instead of letting it roll off my fingers. And i cant throw near as accurate or as fast as before. I've been throwing every day trying to fix the problem, but the throw doesn't become any better. Any tips or throwing drills to help?
Answer Jake,
Throwing everyday may not be what you need to fix the problem, it may add more stress and make the problem worse. It only takes 1 throw to lose your release point, and only one throw to get it back. The problem you have is, you lost the feel of the ball. Just relax and throw the ball, don't think about it. I don't believe this is a mechanical problem but if you have pictures or video that you could compare to this year it will rule out any mechanical issues. Everyone who goes through this say the same thing about pushing the ball and not feeling it snap off the fingers. Instead of throwing everyday, take ground balls from SS and make your throw. Be as quick as you can with your footwork and release to not let yourself think about the throw and tighten up.
