In the zone...and then............

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by AtlUmpSteve

Much as a player in a slump, you start with the fundamentals. Speaking the ASA stance (and you can adapt to your stance), I ask myself:

1) Are you in the slot? Where is your nose (or ear)?
2) Do you have a solid heel-toe (GPA)?
3) Are you the correct distance from the catcher, so that she isn't blocking the zone?
4) Are your eyes set at the top of the zone (may be different for other stances)?
5) Are you setting early enough to see the pitch from release?
6) Are you in your routine (set, pitch call, step back, clear your head, reset, start again)?
7) Is your mind wandering? Concentrate, this is YOUR game.
8) Are you being distracted? If so, either clear the distraction, or ignore it.

That's my checklist; I am sure others have a similar list tailored to their stance.

I find the bold portion the best timing device and use it as a "break" between pitches.