Too many pitches

[ASA/NYSSOBLUE]

In my pregame, one of the few 'extra' things I mention is the one minute in between innings thing. As soon as the P/C are out there I establish right away that I am THERE. I take my pitch(es) from each side and NEVER wander more than 10 ft from HP in between. Our group still has a bunch who insist on coming in from their base positions to chat - after an inning or so they get the message, and don't do it.

When the P has reached 4, I GENTLY tell the C - 'next one' or 'going down' - depending on the comprehension level. Most of the time, except at the real low levels, they get the hint, and start doing it on their own. Gotta love when you a team where they C does it at pitch 2 on her own. No surprise those are usually the better teams.

If the C has been on base, and has to put her gear on, I make the point of asking the coach to warm the P up, PLEASE. If the C has NOT been on, and is taking her time, well....tough, and generally will cut the warm up short. Again, it is rare for them to pull that twice after that happening!