Expert: John Priest - 10/19/2010

Question
My 16 year old doesn't like to work out, but he thinks he can make the pros. He wants to be a pitcher and thinks he only needs to stretch. your opinion on his lack of dedication PLEASE!!!!

Answer
Jay,
Stretching is very important as a baseball player.  The ultimate goal of a player is power.  Power comes from a combination of flexibility, speed, and strength.  One of the most important things to have as a pitcher is to have powerful legs and back.  If you son thinks he can make it to the pros by being flexible he has no chance.  Not only will a strong lower half give more power to the pitcher but it will give the pitcher endurance. Everything that is done in baseball including throwing and hitting comes from a good base from strong legs. Speed is a combination of flexibility and strength and Power is a combination of all three.  Each one is as important as the other and they all lead to a great baseball player.
The best training programs are from Bigger Faster Stronger (www.biggerfasterstronger.com).  These programs can be specific to baseball which would be great for your son.  

Good Luck,
John Priest