Main Takeaways:
- One of the most common (yet missed) issues with pitchers is a drifting back heel on the rubber—or when the heel doesn’t stay flush against the rubber.
- When the heel shifts or drags from the rubber, the pitcher’s alignment will be off and will lead to overcompensation during the delivery and a loss of control/velocity.
- Coaches can work on this during bullpen sessions by slowing down the pitcher’s delivery, emphasizing that they have their back heel against the rubber.
- When done correctly, the pitcher can drive (straight) toward the catcher—not flying open with the hips or upper body, or moving across the body because the heel alignment is off.