Coaching Pitchers

In this second edition, Joe "Spanky" McFarland builds upon the principles presented in his first edition. He includes an all-new organization, 240 accurately detailed illustrations, and substantially expanded and updated chapters on

• fitness training;
• proper mechanics--footwork, hip rotation, stride, arm motion;
• appropriate pitches for each age level;
• strategy; and
• defensive responsibilities.

I especially valued the advice about pitch selection based on a hitter's weaknesses. McFarland describes more than 20 batting habits that can be exploited by the pitcher. Additionally he diagrams where the pitcher should locate defensively on throws from the outfield or after pick off throws. All very helpful for the young pitcher.


Fundamentaly sound pitching instruction!   June 9, 2000
 14 out of 15 found this review helpful

Coaching Pitchers is well written, easy to read and understand, and provides a wealth of how to teach your pitchers the proper fundamentals of pitching. This book is well worth the price and needs to be read by EVERY youth coach. The techniques, drills and suggestions are well documented with illustrations and diagrams.If you only buy one book this year, get this one!


Very Helpful   April 2, 2000
 8 out of 10 found this review helpful

Nicely layed out and a great guide for developing young pitchers from 8 year-olds through high school.


As good a book on pitching as there is   February 21, 1999
 6 out of 7 found this review helpful

This is as good an introduction to the art of pitching as there is. Simple but not simplistic with excellent illustrations. I recommend it highly.


The most ingenious book ever devised for coaches/pitchers.   January 10, 1999
 18 out of 18 found this review helpful

Spanky MacFarland has devised an excellent book for secondary level coaches and players. While this book emphasizes techniques and drills directed more toward older players (teenagers or older), it also provides the most mechanically sound, descriptive, and understandable information I have yet to see for this subject. Excellent sketches show proper techniques and motions to eliminate the ambiguity of text-only documentation. I advise any upper-level coach or player to purchase this book.