How to Get Hot Quickly as a High School Reliever
How High School Pitchers Can Get Hot on Short Notice: A Complete Guide
For high school pitchers, especially relievers, being ready to pitch on short notice can be a challenge. You might get half an inning’s notice—sometimes even less—and you need to be ready to take the mound. But how do you do that efficiently when time is tight and conditions aren’t perfect? In this post, we’ll break down how you can "get hot" quickly and effectively, so you can perform well under pressure.
Why High School Relievers Struggle with Getting Hot
If you’re a high school pitcher, the concept of getting hot might be new to you. Typically, you’ll have limited time to warm up, especially if you’re a position player who gets called in from the field. You might not have enough time to do all your typical exercises like plyometrics or band work. The key is figuring out how to get your body ready in a short amount of time without cutting corners on preparation.
A Quick Routine to Get Ready Fast
When time is limited, you need to focus on a quick, effective routine. Here’s what you can do:
Band Exercises (if you have time): If you’re able to squeeze in a couple of quick band pull-aparts or other shoulder warm-ups, do so. This will help get the blood flowing to your arm. If you don’t have time, don’t stress too much—there are other ways to get ready.
Shuffle Throws: Get behind the mound and do a few shuffle throws to engage your arm and body. Shuffle throws at a short distance can help you find your release point and build some momentum before you get on the mound.
On the Mound: Once you’ve done a few shuffle throws, it’s time to step on the mound. Aim for at least 8 to 10 warm-up throws, focusing on getting a feel for your fastball. You don’t need to throw max effort yet, but you should be close to it. Remember, you’ve likely been playing all game, so you’re already somewhat loose. Now, it’s about refining your mechanics.
Include Offspeed Pitches: Don’t rely solely on your fastball during warm-ups. Make sure to mix in at least three offspeed pitches. This helps you get a feel for all your pitches so that when you’re in the game, you’re not a "one-trick pony." You’ll know how your offspeed stuff is moving before you face a batter.
The Importance of Communication with Your Coach
One of the best ways to give yourself an advantage is by communicating with your coach. If you can talk to your coach ahead of time, ask for a couple of innings' notice if you know you’ll be coming into the game. This gives you extra time to prepare and go through your routine, rather than scrambling at the last minute. A good coach will understand the importance of this and let you know in advance. If not, take it upon yourself to ask.
Pre-Inning Preparation: Get Ahead of the Game
If you’re a position player who’s also pitching, or if you know you’ll be called to the mound soon, start preparing before the coach makes the call. For example, if you think you might pitch soon, start doing some reverse throws or band work during the half-inning before your turn at-bat. This helps you stay ahead of the game and prevents you from feeling rushed when your name is called.
It’s also important to remember that the game isn’t always going to offer you ideal, perfect warm-up circumstances. But that’s okay—you don’t need perfection to perform well. What matters is that you’ve put in the work ahead of time, so even a rushed warm-up will still leave you ready to compete.
What to Do If You Don’t Have Time for a Full Routine
Let’s say you don’t have time to do all your usual pre-game activities like plyos, bands, and stretching. That’s fine. The key is making the most of the few minutes you do have. If you’ve already been throwing and playing in the game, your body is loose enough to get on the mound after 10 pitches in the bullpen. You don’t need 20-30 pitches to feel ready; 8-10 fastballs and a couple of offspeed pitches will get you there.
If you’re still stiff or unsure after your bullpen, it might take a batter or two to settle in, but that’s normal. The more you prepare in advance, the less this will be an issue.
Key Takeaways: No Excuses, Be Prepared
Communicate: Talk to your coach ahead of time and ask for some notice if you’ll be called into the game. This helps you plan and get ready without feeling rushed.
Adapt Your Routine: Learn to warm up quickly. You won’t always have time for a full pre-game routine, so make sure you have a quick, efficient warm-up that gets you ready fast.
Stay Loose: If you’re already playing in the field, your body is already somewhat loose. Focus on refining your mechanics and getting your arm ready to throw strikes.
Don’t Rely on Perfect Conditions: High school baseball often doesn’t provide perfect warm-up scenarios, but that’s no excuse. With proper communication and planning, you can be ready to pitch, even in less-than-ideal situations.
By following these steps, you’ll be more prepared to get hot on short notice, and you’ll perform better when you take the mound. Remember, it’s all about adapting to the situation, staying ready, and making the most of the time you have.
Do you have any other questions about pitching preparation? Feel free to reach out, and don’t forget to leave a comment or like this post if you found it helpful!
