Strike Zone Training

[James88]

In the past on a very limited basis (very, very limited), I've had strike zone training with an instructor that used an attached baseball on a stick to "calibrate" my eyes to the strike zone.

I want to conduct this training for myself and a couple umpires in my association and was wondering if there is some sort of protocol that would be helpful.  I understand hold the ball on outside corner, at knees, etc., but does anyone with experience have suggestions on how to make the training more productive?

For example, hold 10 pitches on outside corner followed by 10 off the plate, 10 at knees, etc.  Any suggestions or links would be helpful.

Thanks.

[kstrunk]

This kind of 'static' training can be helpful, but I think for me, what is MORE helpful, is dynamic training with live pitching which is video recorded from a vantage point where one can see the ball moving through the zone (or not). 

I think more pitches are 'kicked' by poor mechanics and timing than anything else, and I'm not sure 'static' training can help that very much? However, to see how you react to the 'money' pitch (at the knees on the outside black) in live motion, head movement, timing, etc... can be very instructive. 

Another factor that is missed with static training is the catcher, who has a huge influence over how we see pitches due to positioning, etc... 

My 2 cents, get as much live pitching as you can, ON VIDEO, and get help analyzing it. 

[James88]

Thanks kstrunk and good advice.  I have a pitching machine and video recorder ready to go and plan on doing exactly what you suggest.  Just thought it may also be helpful to include the static training prior to the dynamic pitching.

Maybe the static training isn't necessary at all.  Just set up the pitching machine and hit corners, etc.

Thoughts from anyone?  

[urout17]

During the off season in your area check out any local indoor training facility and ask the coaches if they would mind having your umpires track pitches while their players are practicing.  Any way to see live pitching will help.  Just a thought...