quote:Originally posted by PGStaff:
I actually prefer the side step for several reasons.But if a pitcher is good enough he can do whatever he wants.
I know in the old days it was taught to step straight back. It is one of the many things I've changed my mind about over the years. Stepping to the side has nothing to do with throwing out of the stretch.
Question: What are the advantages or disadvantages of stepping straight back vs stepping to the side?
Jerry, What I don't like about the side step is this........you step sideways towards 1st with your left foot and your weight goes that way. You then step towards 3rd with your right foot and your weight goes that way.....you then have to try and center your weight and then go towards home. Most of the kids that do it today slow it down so that they can stay under control and then they end up going at a real slow tempo which is not to their advantage. I call it "pitching around a corner".
The old way keeps you on line and allows you to have a more upbeat tempo.