MMV #009: How to Walk Less Batters this Season

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Read time: 2 minutes

We all know the importance of throwing strikes. But how many know how to improve it?

Today I want to show you how you can lower your walk rate in 2023.

If you can reduce your walks you'll be in more leverage counts, throw fewer pitches, keep the defense engaged, and have more success on the mound.

The main reason players walk guys is mental and physical.

They aren't:

• Aggressive
• Challenging themselves in training
• Forcing swing decisions 
• Confident on the mound

Let's begin by breaking down what leads to walks and how we can fix it.

What is the highest predictor of walks?

STRIKE%

What is the highest predictor of strike%?

SWING%

This is the stat I want to focus on today.

Chasing strikeouts has led to some pitchers nibbling, falling behind, and trying to AVOID contact, which leads to fewer swings.

Here’s the thing, an increased swing% not only leads to fewer walks, but more strikeouts!

When you are constantly inducing swings, hitters are more likely to chase when you do go out of the zone.

You are now on offense and they are on defense.

So, what leads to an increase in swings?

Pitches in the strike zone and as a result getting ahead.

We have to teach players to attack the strike zone.

If they are getting hit around as a result, that tells me their stuff is not good enough.

When that happens, we don’t shy away from the zone, we shift our focus to improving their pitches and velo!

For me the mental side is important to being aggressive in the zone.

But, I also believe we have to train throwing strikes and do it daily!

This includes using:

• Differential balls in catch and pens
• Batter standing in
• Game situations
• Usage
• Targeting
• Etc.

What D1 teams had the highest swing% in 2022?

1. Elon 49.5% (6% BB’s)
2. Tennessee 49% (6.8% BB’s)
3. Wofford 48.9% (6.7% BB’s)
4. Southern Miss 48.6% (7% BB’s)
5. VCU 47.9% (7.9% BB’s)

What were D1 averages?

Swing - 44.3%

BB - 10.3%

As you can see, the teams that induce the most swings, also have the fewest walks.

Instead of shying away from contact, challenge the batter to swing every pitch.

RECAP

• Throw more strikes
• Induce more swings
• Pound the zone and get ahead
• Train throwing strikes mentally and physically
• Increased swing% leads to more chase and K’s

That's it for today.

See you next Monday!

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