We’re going to deviate from the normal single-guest model for this episode, and instead rock a collaborative effort between me and Cressey Sports Performance – MA pitching coordinator, Christian Wonders. We’re going to discuss the debate on when kids should start throwing curveballs and sliders.

A special thanks to this show’s sponsor, Athletic Greens. Head to https://www.athleticgreens.com/cressey and you’ll receive a free 10-pack of Athletic Greens travel packets with your first order.

Show Outline

• What research says about youth pitchers throwing breaking balls
• When the right time is to begin integrating a breaking ball into a young pitcher’s development
• How Christian introduces a young pitcher to spinning a curveball for the first time
• What steps Christian takes to progress a young pitchers from simply learning to spin a baseball to consistently throwing breakers in a game
• Why youth pitchers should prioritize commanding fastball and changeup before jumping to learn a big breaking ball
• How the delicacy involved in throwing curveballs takes young pitchers away from working late arm speed and powering through the baseball
• What common mechanical compensations arise as young pitchers try to throw a quality curveball
• How Christian plans to develop a curveball with his 10 year old brother
• Why it is so crucial for pitchers to find a consistent and comfortable curveball grip that works for them
• Why Christian never has any of his pitchers, youth, high school, or college, throw more than two off speed pitches in a row in bullpens
• Why it’s important to replicate fastball arm speed on breaking pitches

You can follow Christian on Twitter at @csp_pitching, and on Instagram at @csp_pitching. Also, for more information about our upcoming CSP Elite Baseball Mentorship, be sure to check out www.EliteBaseballMentorships.com.

Sponsor Reminder

This episode is brought to you by Athletic Greens. It’s an all-in-one superfood supplement with 75 whole-food sourced ingredients designed to support your body’s nutrition needs across 5 critical areas of health: 1) energy, 2) immunity, 3) gut health, 4) hormonal support, and 5) healthy aging. Head to www.AthleticGreens.com/cressey and claim my special offer today – 20 FREE travel packs (valued at $79) – with your first purchase. I use this product daily myself and highly recommend it to our athletes as well. I’d encourage you to give it a shot, too – especially with this great offer.

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