Pitching Drill: Structured 12-Pitch Bullpen (Baseball & Softball)

A focused 12-pitch bullpen template that sequences fastballs away, middle, and inside before finishing with off-speed for strikes. Builds command and a real at-bat mindset.

Structured 12-Pitch Bullpen - Video Demonstration

How to Run This Drill

  1. SETUP: Pitcher completes full throwing routine and mound warmup before the count starts.
  2. SET 1: Three fastballs to the outside corner. Catcher holds a glove target on the corner and resets between each pitch.
  3. SET 2: Three fastballs middle. Pitcher works the bottom half, not down the heart.
  4. SET 3: Three fastballs to the inside corner. Establish the inner half so a hitter cannot dive.
  5. SET 4: Three off-speed pitches for strikes. Curve, change, or whatever the pitcher is developing.
  6. Catcher (or coach) calls out the location result after each pitch.
  7. Log totals: strikes thrown, corners hit, off-speed for strikes. Use the log to set goals for the next session.

Coaching Points

  • Quality over quantity. Twelve pitches with intent beats thirty sloppy ones.
  • Every pitch needs a target and a pitch call before delivery.
  • Catcher resets the glove between pitches so the pitcher's eye trains on the corner, not the middle.
  • Sequence mirrors a real at-bat: establish away, attack in, finish with off-speed.
  • Log the session. What you do not measure, you do not improve.
  • Keep total pitch count age-appropriate. No max-effort bullpens for pitchers under 12.

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At a Glance

Categories
Pitching
Focus Areas
BullpenCommandSequencing
Age Groups
11-1213-1415-1617-18
Players
1-3 players
Difficulty
intermediate

Equipment Needed

Franklin Sports Official Size Baseball, 9", 1 PackBaseballsAll-Star S12 Ages 9-12 Baseball Catching Equipment KitCatchers GearGoSports Baseball & Softball Home Plate, Heavy-Duty RubberHome Plate

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