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 Hi i was wondering, does practice pitching with a rubber ball help your pitching command or does it just throw you off. I know, it won't have the same rotation as a real baseball. I usually draw myself a strike zone on the wall, and pitch a rubber ball. Please give me any advice.
Answer Chris,
I would recommend pitching a real baseball when you can. The rubber ball may not be the same size, weight, and doesn't have the same feel. I would say this would not help your command or your mechanics. Because the rubber ball is so different your release point may change when throwing a rubber ball over the real ball. If the release point changes you may develop a bad habit and lose your command of the strike zone.
You can get a backstop for around $100.00. These are made by Jugs or Atec, some sporting goods stores have them or you can get them online at www.baseballexpress.com. I have had the Jugs pop-up screen for 8 years with no problems. You can pitch into this with real balls as well as hit into it with a batting T or soft toss.
