Pregame Pitching Routine for Starting Pitchers

[@slundgr]

Dan, what if a pitcher doesn't have it in the bullpen warming up, whether it is due to nerves, frustration or what have you? How do you handle that? I've seen some pitchers have terrible bullpens warming up, and they are fine when they get to the mound and start the game and vice versa. In Jamie Moyer's book, he said that when he didn't have a good start, it was usually because he didn't stick to his pregame routine so he wasn't as focused as he should have been. That underscores the necessity of having a pregame routine and sticking to it, right down to the minute.

[@DanBlewett]

Good topic. I’ll think on it. Short answer - it often doesn’t predict the in game performance well at all; I’ve had bad days in the pen and great games under the lights. Just depends, but I’ll elaborate on that one. Thank you!

[@slundgr]

@@DanBlewett Thank you, Dan. As a coach it helps to know how to handle the pitcher mentally and their emotions in the pen. That is what prompted my question. My son and I were talking about a pitcher he has who has been lights out in the pen before the game but not so good when he starts the game. I said I think the bullpen is often to get a feel of the pitches and get mentally and physically ready to pitch in a game; I think his pitcher's focus shifts to the outcome versus the execution when the game starts. I think pitchers often put more stock in how they feel in the pen warming up than coaches do, because I agree it's not always a good predictor of success, as you mentioned. I appreciate your videos and feedback.

[@jordanking6939]

What's your opinion about long toss? Should pitchers long toss pre game. Matt Cain doesn't long toss and they're pitchers long tossing from one end of the field to another. Barry Zito had a crazy routine and he only tops 84 mph on his fastball

[@DanBlewett]

You should try it all and see how you feel. Everyone is different and I’ve also done all of it. I think when you’re mentally tough enough, you can make anything work if you need it to. Though I was a long tosser early in my career, after Tommy John #2 it just hurt my elbow too much. So I was a 180 feet or less guy. And relievers don’t get to long toss before entering a game. It’s all what fits you best.